James Goldman

Arsenal have decided not to actively sell Ethan Nwaneri this summer, despite speculation linking the 19-year-old with Galatasaray and Borussia Dortmund. After a difficult loan spell at Marseille, Nwaneri impressed during pre-season but remains behind several midfielders in the first-team pecking order. Mikel Arteta said Nwaneri needs regular football, while CEO Richard Garlick indicated Arsenal would prefer to retain or loan out their academy graduates rather than sell them, unless a particularly suitable offer emerges.

Paul Scholes says Chelsea have moved from recruiting too many inexperienced young players to signing veterans who may be too old to solve the club’s on-field problems. He questions whether Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck will play enough to improve Chelsea’s discipline and ability to protect leads, while Jamie Carragher similarly argues that a younger experienced midfielder would have offered greater value. Both acknowledge the pair could provide leadership and influence in training, but doubt that this will address Chelsea’s shortcomings during matches.

Arsenal beat Manchester City 3-0 in the Community Shield, with goals from Riccardo Calafiori, Kai Havertz and Martin Ødegaard. Martin Keown praised Ødegaard's renewed confidence, creativity and swagger after an injury-affected previous season, while Pat Nevin said the midfielder's form strengthens Arsenal's position as Premier League title favourites. Ødegaard said Arsenal were hungry to win more trophies after demonstrating their level and readiness for the season.

Arsenal beat Manchester City 3–0 in the Community Shield, suggesting they could be serious Premier League title contenders. Their midfield depth, strengthened by Bruno Guimarães, is highlighted as a major advantage despite defensive and attacking concerns. Arsenal’s continued faith in Noni Madueke is questioned after another inconsistent performance, while Ethan Nwaneri and Gabriel Martinelli appear increasingly likely to leave. Manchester City looked vulnerable without Rodri, with Elliot Anderson unable to replicate the Spanish midfielder’s control and composure; City may need time to find a stable midfield combination if Rodri departs.

Chelsea have been urged to abandon their interest in Arsenal midfielder Myles Lewis-Skelly and pursue teammate Martin Zubimendi instead. Zubimendi, who joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad for £50 million and previously worked with Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, is viewed by former Chelsea defender Glen Johnson as an experienced, Premier League-winning midfielder who could anchor Chelsea’s midfield. Lewis-Skelly reportedly remains committed to fighting for his place at Arsenal despite interest from Chelsea and Manchester United. Johnson also praised Chelsea’s signing of Maxence Lacroix and highlighted young recruit Marco Palestra as a player with significant potential.

Borussia Dortmund defeated Arsenal 3-2 at the Emirates Stadium, giving Arsenal a second consecutive pre-season loss. Despite Viktor Gyokeres’ underwhelming performance, Dortmund manager Niko Kovac praised the striker’s strength, pace and directness. Mikel Arteta defended new £75 million signing Bruno Guimaraes, saying the midfielder’s leadership, charisma and competitive character could provide a new spark for Arsenal.

Vinicius Junior has ended speculation over his future by signing a new long-term Real Madrid contract despite interest from Arsenal, which reportedly offered him a package that would have made him the Premier League's highest-paid player. Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho welcomed the renewal and said it was a source of pride, while noting that Vinicius needs time to regain fitness after the World Cup. Mourinho also praised new signing Bernardo Silva and outlined his potential importance to the team.

Amad Diallo has welcomed the prospect of Marcus Rashford returning to Manchester United after his loan at Barcelona was not made permanent. Rashford’s future remains uncertain under new manager Michael Carrick, with Arsenal continuing to be linked to the forward as they seek a left-sided attacker. Former United striker Michael Owen believes Rashford would suit Mikel Arteta’s team, while United’s encouraging pre-season form continues ahead of matches against Leeds and Milan.

Mason Mount appeared to ease fears of another serious injury after limping off during Manchester United’s 1-1 pre-season draw with Paris Saint-Germain. He was later seen walking freely without a protective boot or knee support. United fell behind to Ibrahim Mbaye in the second minute before Bryan Mbeumo equalised, with manager Michael Carrick highlighting the team’s adaptation and overall progress ahead of upcoming friendlies against Leeds United and AC Milan.

Cristian Romero appears set to leave Tottenham and is reportedly open to a controversial move across north London to Arsenal, despite Tottenham’s reluctance to sell him to their rivals. Atlético Madrid are considered the leading alternative after Inter Milan reportedly agreed a €40 million fee but failed to reach personal terms. Arsenal’s interest is partly driven by William Saliba’s back injury and expected lengthy rehabilitation; the club is also considering Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa and Como’s Jacobo Ramón.

Bruno Guimaraes has completed a £75 million move from Newcastle United to Arsenal, signing a contract through 2030 with an option for an additional year. Declan Rice was among the first Arsenal players to contact him, joking that their previous on-field clashes should end now that they are teammates. Gabriel Magalhaes also encouraged the Brazil international to join. Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta said Guimaraes’s defensive ability, box-to-box range, leadership and creativity will strengthen the midfield and help Mikel Arteta further develop the team’s playing style.

Anders Limpar predicts Manchester City could become a mediocre side, struggle to finish sixth or seventh and miss Champions League qualification if Rodri is sold. Rodri is reportedly considering a move to Barcelona after an injury-interrupted season, while City have already signed Elliot Anderson and lost Bernardo Silva and Pep Guardiola. Limpar also says Rodri’s departure would benefit Arsenal and identifies Erling Haaland as Bayern Munich’s likely long-term target to replace Harry Kane.

Chelsea are reportedly demanding £75 million for right-back Malo Gusto, a fee that could prevent Manchester City or Paris Saint-Germain from making a formal offer. Manchester City’s head coach Enzo Maresca is interested in reuniting with Gusto, having previously worked with him at Chelsea, while the club also sees Pedro Neto as a possible replacement for Savinho if the Brazilian winger leaves. Chelsea’s willingness to lower its asking prices could determine whether either transfer progresses.

Arsenal have publicly indicated that more signings are expected before the transfer window closes, despite having made only two additions so far: winger Christos Tzolis and goalkeeper Illan Meslier. Manager Mikel Arteta said the club’s ownership, board, sporting director and coaching staff want to build a stronger squad and take Arsenal to a higher level. The club has missed out on Morgan Rogers, faces difficulties in pursuing Bruno Guimarães, and has limited hopes of signing Vinícius Júnior, while Julián Álvarez remains at Atlético Madrid amid interest from Barcelona.

Tottenham have played down fears that £85 million signing Mateus Fernandes suffered a serious knee injury after he was seen watching training during the club's pre-season tour. Fernandes is unlikely to play against Sydney FC but has reportedly suffered no meaningful setback. James Maddison also praised new manager Roberto De Zerbi's attacking philosophy as Tottenham prepare for their Premier League opener against Brentford on August 22.

Manchester United have reportedly opened talks to sell Joshua Zirkzee, with Juventus interested after their pursuit of Randal Kolo Muani stalled. United are willing to consider a loan deal with a £30m purchase option, despite paying about £36.5m for the forward in 2024. Zirkzee has struggled for consistent form and a regular role under Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim, although he showed occasional promise under Michael Carrick. His departure would leave injured striker Benjamin Sesko as United’s only senior centre-forward ahead of the new season.

Chelsea have beaten Arsenal to the signing of Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa after Arsenal declined to meet Villa’s valuation. Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso praised Rogers as a top player who can make an immediate impact and become a key member of the team. Arsenal are now pursuing alternatives including Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior, while Bradley Barcola reportedly prefers Liverpool. Chelsea are also expected to add Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix as Alonso seeks to build a squad with the quality and mentality needed to compete in the Premier League.

Arsenal are reportedly preparing a club-record offer and wages exceeding Bukayo Saka’s £350,000-a-week salary to persuade Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior to join. The Brazil international has 12 months remaining on his current deal, but Real Madrid manager José Mourinho is reportedly determined to block a transfer. Arsenal’s pursuit follows setbacks involving Morgan Rogers, Bruno Guimarães and Julian Alvarez, while the club has already signed Christos Tzolis and Illan Meslier.

Chelsea have been warned that a renewed attempt to sign Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka is futile. Sunderland rejected Chelsea’s reported £8 million bid, and although Xhaka was reportedly interested in reuniting with Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, he has since reaffirmed his commitment to Sunderland. Manager Régis Le Bris said the matter was closed and that Xhaka wants to remain at the club, where he is contracted until 2028. Le Bris also indicated that Sunderland’s transfer activity will be quieter than last summer’s major squad rebuild.

Chelsea believe they could raise substantial funds from selling Pedro Neto, despite not actively pushing for his departure. The 26-year-old winger, signed from Wolves for more than £50 million, has had an inconsistent spell amid managerial and squad changes. Manchester City, now managed by former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, are considering a move, while Liverpool and a Saudi Arabian club are also monitoring him. Chelsea believe the inflated winger market, highlighted by high valuations for Yan Diomande and Bradley Barcola and their own £117 million purchase of Morgan Rogers, could allow them to make a major profit.

Bradley Barcola has reportedly told Paris Saint-Germain that he will not sign a new contract, with negotiations over an extension having stalled before the World Cup. Arsenal have maintained long-term interest in the France international as they seek another left-winger, but Barcola is said to prefer a move to Liverpool. Liverpool have been working on a deal since April and need attacking reinforcements following Mohamed Salah’s departure and Hugo Ekitike’s Achilles injury. PSG are reportedly seeking around £140 million for the 23-year-old, and Liverpool are awaiting the club’s valuation.

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni criticised referee Slavko Vincic for issuing an early yellow card to Enzo Fernandez, arguing it contributed to the midfielder’s later dismissal in the World Cup final against Spain. Fernandez’s sending off left Argentina at a disadvantage, leading to Ferran Torres scoring the decisive extra‑time goal. Scaloni expressed pride in his squad despite the defeat and said he would take time to decide his future. Lionel Messi’s international plans also remain uncertain.

Wayne Rooney criticised FIFA’s inaugural World Cup final half-time show, calling the star-filled performance flat and unengaging despite appearances by Shakira, Justin Bieber, Madonna, BTS and others. The 13‑minute show featured a wide range of acts, including Burna Boy, Ronaldinho, Ronaldo and a series of musical medleys, but left Rooney unimpressed as he expressed a preference for the match to resume. The event incorporated orchestral performances, K‑pop, promotional segments and cameo speeches as part of the final’s entertainment programme.

Arsenal are preparing for an extended period without William Saliba after the defender suffered a back injury during France’s World Cup semi-final. With surgery still possible, Mikel Arteta is evaluating internal options but is also considering external reinforcements. Among potential targets is free agent John Stones, who recently left Manchester City and could reunite with Arteta. Internal alternatives include Pierro Hincapie, Riccardo Calafiori, Cristhian Mosquera and Marli Salmon, though concern over Saliba’s workload has heightened the need for additional cover.

Luis de la Fuente warns that World Cup final referee Slavko Vincic must prevent Argentina from exploiting gamesmanship, stressing Spain’s need to stay disciplined and remain committed to their footballing philosophy. Argentina have faced accusations of benefiting from favourable decisions and conditions throughout the tournament, while Emi Martinez rejects suggestions they were handed an easy path to the final. The match will also test Spain’s ability to contain Lionel Messi, who has previously caused major problems for De la Fuente’s teams.

Lionel Messi praised Lamine Yamal as one of the world’s best young players ahead of the World Cup final, where the two former Barcelona teammates will face each other. A resurfaced 2007 UNICEF charity photo of Messi bathing an infant Yamal drew renewed attention as both prepare for the match. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente confirmed Yamal and Pedro Porro are fit, while Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni acknowledged the difficulty of stopping Yamal. Both sides emphasized mutual respect as anticipation builds for the final.

England’s World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina is portrayed as another missed opportunity marked by Thomas Tuchel’s highly criticised tactical decisions, including defensive substitutions that surrendered control after taking the lead. Argentina and Lionel Messi are praised for exploiting the space England conceded during their deep retreat. The article argues that while Tuchel should consider resigning, financial factors and a lack of credible alternatives may be the only reasons he keeps his job. Despite progressing through earlier rounds, England’s recurring failure against technically superior opponents is highlighted as an enduring structural issue.

Jay Bothroyd urges Thomas Tuchel to select Djed Spence at left-back against Argentina, arguing his one‑on‑one defending and pace make him the best option to contain Lionel Messi in England’s World Cup semi-final. England’s defensive options have stabilized with key players returning, but Spence is highlighted as the standout choice to limit Messi’s influence.

England gain major boosts ahead of their World Cup semi‑final as Declan Rice and Nico O’Reilly return to fitness following recent issues. With Jordan Henderson injured and Jarrell Quansah suspended, Thomas Tuchel focuses selection decisions on the right flank. Harry Kane downplays suggestions of tension within the squad, insisting the team remains united as they prepare to face Argentina.

Erling Haaland criticised the decision to disallow Norway’s late goal in their World Cup quarter‑final loss to England, arguing he was unfairly penalised for a push on Elliot Anderson during a corner. Haaland and teammate Sander Berge also questioned other key officiating decisions, including the build‑up to Jude Bellingham’s equaliser, expressing frustration over what they saw as inconsistent calls by FIFA. Norway’s exit followed a tense match in Miami in which several marginal moments went against them.

A disputed equaliser during England’s World Cup quarter-final win over Norway sparked anger among former and current Norwegian players, with Erik Mykland calling the decision not to rule out the goal a scandal after replays suggested the ball struck a spidercam wire. FIFA stated their sensors detected no contact, while Norway also saw a second-half goal disallowed for a foul identified by VAR. England advanced despite criticism from head coach Thomas Tuchel, who said the team was lucky and must improve ahead of the semi-finals.

Louis Saha urged Arsenal to compete with Liverpool to sign Bradley Barcola as a replacement for Leandro Trossard, who is set to join Besiktas. Barcola is seen as a rising talent who could thrive with regular playing time, and Arsenal’s need to reinforce their attack aligns with his potential availability as he considers leaving PSG after reduced opportunities.

Liam Gallagher joked about Harry Kane losing his voice after England’s dramatic 3-2 World Cup win over Mexico, during which Kane scored the decisive penalty despite later conceding one. Kane attributed his hoarse voice to singing with fans and praised the team’s resolve in a chaotic match that included playing with ten men. Thomas Tuchel celebrated the emotional intensity and significance of the victory as England advanced to a quarter-final against Norway.

Micah Richards argues that France are the only team England should fear after their tense World Cup victory over Mexico, highlighting England’s resilience despite adverse conditions and a red card. Strong performances from Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice and Harry Kane contributed to the win, while Thomas Tuchel praised his squad’s determination and believes they can challenge the tournament favourites. England now prepare to face Norway, with a potential matchup against Argentina ahead.