Category Uncategorized

Tottenham Hotspur certainly have a chequered past in the transfer market, with much of the inconsistency since last tasting silverware owing to a repetitive cycle of misfires.

To this day, the club's record signing, Tanguy Ndombele, is arguably the worst in modern times, joining from Lyon with a weight of expectation but now floundering on loan with Galatasaray and having been branded "one of the worst signings Tottenham have made" by journalist Paul Brown, such was the calamity of the venture.

Gareth Bale's world-record £85m sale back in 2013 saw the notorious 'magnificent seven', for the most part, fail to live up to the hype, while the several seasons between Mauricio Pochettino's sacking and Ange Postecoglou's appointment have seen rotten luck on the transfer front.

Postecoglou's arrival last summer has seen the strategy streamlined, and improvements have been made. Harry Kane still hasn't been directly replaced since his sale to Bayern Munich however and Spurs must ensure they spend their money wisely when they do invest, avoiding a repeat of the signing that saw Roberto Soldado join the club.

How Roberto Soldado got on at Spurs

Soldado joined Tottenham from Valencia in a club record £26m transfer back in 2013, targetted to counter the departure of Bale and considered a positive move after harvesting 30 goals from 46 appearances in all competitions during the 2012/13 campaign.

He fell quite flat in London, however, with reporter Kevin Palmer calling him "useless" for his abject shooting efforts in the Europa League, hardly producing the kind of shiny displays needed in the Premier League either.

Roberto Soldado: Spurs Record by Comp
Competition	Apps	Goals	Assists
Premier League	52	7	6
Europa League	13	4	1
FA Cup	4	0	3
League Cup	5	2	1
Europa League Qualifying	2	3	0
All stats via Transfermarkt

Journalist Sam Tighe even went as far as to claim that the Spaniard was the "flop of the season" after joining Tottenham, so miserable was he in emulating the previous phenomenon of Bale.

While he flattered to deceive on English shores and was shipped back off to his homeland just two years after signing for Villarreal in a £7m transfer in August 2015, he at least enjoyed a small measure of goalscoring success with the Lilywhites.

He's not the worst to lead as the spearhead over the past decade or so, with that tag pinned to Vincent Janssen's signature.

Vincent Janssen was truly terrible

Janssen might just be the biggest disappointment of the Spurs era, completing a truly wretched spell in north London before fleeing to Mexico with Monterrey.

Spurs signed the Netherlands star in a £17m deal – approaching £20m – back in 2016 after he scored 32 goals from 49 games for AZ Alkmaar in 2015/16 – there's something of a theme, there.

Janssen endured a wretched time with Tottenham, scoring six times from 42 appearances before conclusions were made that he was not, in fact, up for the task at the front of the ship.

Reporter John Leverty even rebuked him for his "dreadful" spell at the club, with such views reinforced when, in 2017, Lille manager Marcelo Bielsa rejected the opportunity to sign the centre-forward, holding major reservations over Janssen's technical quality and decision-making in crucial moments.

While he didn't rake in the largest of pay packets at Tottenham, his £34k-per-week earnings over the three campaigns spent at the club – with an unsuccessful loan spell with Fenerbahce sandwiched in the middle – earned him around £3.5m during his stay.

Spurs lining up move for “world-class” £310k-p/w Kulusevski upgrade

Ange appears to be eager to bolster his team with some added firepower.

By
Angus Sinclair

Apr 19, 2024

In total, this marks the outlay for Janssen at around £20m in relation to the salary and £17m fee, and when considering the return for the outlay, it can only go down as a horrible misfire, worse even than Soldado's time at Tottenham. The Spaniard, at least, secured a prominent role in the starting line-up at one stage and clinched 27 goal contributions from 76 fixtures.

Postecoglou will not want to make the same mistake when he moves to sign a Kane replacement this summer.

A fresh update has emerged from the camp of Mexican striker Santiago Gimenez after reports that Arsenal had bid for his services over the weekend.

Arsenal back on track against Wolves

After a pair of damaging results saw Arsenal lose control of the Premier League title race and drop out of Europe at the quarter-final stages, Mikel Arteta's side got back to winning ways courtesy of a 2-0 win over Wolves at Molineux on Saturday.

It is a result that lifts them back to the top of the Premier League as things stand, with Liverpool behind them on goal difference and Manchester City trailing by a point but with a game in hand on both clubs.

Arsenal could fetch a £173m fee by selling their "monster" talent

The Arsenal star is the joint-second highest valued player in England.

ByTom Lever Apr 21, 2024

The Gunners face Chelsea next at the Emirates Stadium before a trip across north London to take on Tottenham over the weekend, with the Gunners likely needing to take three points from both London derbies to still be in consideration for the title come the end of the weekend.

There are still areas of improvement needed though, with Arteta's side clearly still lacking a spark in central midfield and also a reliable goalscoring striker. As it stands, only Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz and Leandro Trossard have reached double figures this season for goals, with no one breaching the 20 goal mark yet.

Arsenal's top goalscorers

Player

Goals 23/24

Bukayo Saka

18

Leandro Trossard

14

Martin Odegaard

11

Kai Havertz

10

Gabriel Jesus

8

Gabriel Martinelli

8

Despite being the highest scorers in the competition, there is a feeling that Arsenal need more, and they have been credited with an interest in Feyenoord striker Santiago Gimenez.

The Mexican has enjoyed a fine campaign to date, scoring 24 times and grabbing 7 assists in 40 outings for his side in all competitions. On Friday, it was reported that Arsenal were one of many sides pushing to sign the 23-year-old, and there were even rumours that Arsenal had made a bid for his services.

Gimenez to Arsenal update

Now, a fresh update has emerged on the status of Arsenal's interest in the £29k-a-week Gimenez, and it appears to be just that for now. As per Mexican outlet Azteca Deportes [Via Sport Witness], an "internal Feyenoord source" has relayed to them that no bid has been forthcoming from any party, with the Gunners part of a trio of sides keen on signing Gimenez.

Atletico Madrid and Juventus are also keeping a close eye, but again have not made an offer and there has been "no formal approach" for the striker from any of the three clubs in question.

It remains to be seen whether or not Arsenal's interest firms up into something more serious in the coming weeks and months, but he would certainly solve a problem the Gunners seem to have in central areas, and is reportedly available at a bargain price of just £40m this summer, which would allow plenty of scope to rebuild the squad elsewhere too.

Temba Bavuma pitched his case for Test selection with a career-best first-class score of 180 on Thursday, before suggesting that he had grabbed his opportunity to spend time in the middle “with both hands”.Faced with an improbable fourth-innings target of 430, Bavuma resumed his innings on 41 after Lions were reduced to 98 for 4 overnight in their four-day game against Dolphins. He reached a fluent 50 soon before lunch, and celebrated with a punch of the air after bringing up his 15th first-class hundred from 153 balls.Wickets continued to fall around him, and he was eventually the last man out, miscuing Senuran Muthusamy’s left-arm spin to Andile Phehlukwayo at cover, who took a sharp catch. His 180 was the second-highest score in the fourth innings of a franchise match in South Africa, beaten only by Dean Elgar’s 189 not out in 2009.ALSO READ: Absent Bavuma highlights SA’s ever-present transformation issues“From a personal point of view, it’s always awesome to contribute to the team,” Bavuma told . “I have been someone who has been trying to rack up those big scores, fortunately today was that opportunity and I was able to grab it with both hands.”It was massive [to get time in the middle]. It feels like I hadn’t played cricket for ages to be honest, the last game I played was last week, but before that it was a T20 game [on December 1].”It was nice to be out in the middle, in the middle is where you can practice and practice and practice. You can set your goals and that stuff, but what matters is what you do in the middle, where you’re able to get your mind in the right space.Bavuma suggested that he had felt in good form even in the first innings, when he was caught at silly mid-on via the inside edge.”Not to be arrogant or anything, but I felt good even in the first innings,” he said. “It was a good wicket – yes the wicket deteriorated quite quickly, but I felt it was a good wicket. You had to have good plans against the spinners, and they were lucky in that they had guys that turn in away and guys that turn it in, that always kept you on your toes as a batter.”If you had your plans, stuck to your plans, there were definitely runs out there. I felt good from the first innings – soft dismissal from me, getting out to the right-arm offie [Prenelan Subrayen] – second innings, I tried to make things right.”Bavuma’s timing could hardly have been better, having been told publicly by Faf du Plessis that the only way to force his way back into the Test team was through “weight of runs”. It comes at the end of a long lean run with the bat: while he made two first-class hundreds for Northamptonshire in the County Championship last summer, his most recent ton on home soil came in the Cape Town Test of 2016, more than four years ago.Bavuma’s absence from the ongoing series against England has been a major talking point, with South Africa again missing their transformation targets in the Port Elizabeth Test. Du Plessis said on the eve of the game that he was “not getting in a battle with myself and Temba over who plays and who doesn’t”, while assistant coach Enoch Nkwe described him as a possible replacement for du Plessis as captain in the long term.

Things are going from bad to worse for Everton off the pitch, and now yet another blow may have come their way according to a new claim this week.

Everton receive new point deduction

This has been one of the most dramatic seasons at Goodison Park in recent memory, but unfortunately for the supporters, it has been mainly for all the wrong reasons. Firstly, Sean Dyche's side have again been battling for their Premier League survival, looking to avoid a first-ever trip to the Championship, but financial issues have made life so much harder for the Blues.

Having been deducted 10 points earlier in the campaign for financial breaches, the amount was reduced to six back in February, acting as a boost, even though it still left them in real trouble in the relegation fight. Some improved results have aided their survival push, including last weekend's 1-0 win at home to Burnley, but now another two-point deduction has come their way.

It means that Dyche's men have dropped down to 16th in the Premier League table, only two points clear of 18th-place Luton Town – the Blues do at least have one game in hand – so there is still a huge amount of work to do in their remaining seven matches.

Another blow comes Everton's way

According to The Times on X, Everton could receive yet another point deduction next season, relating to a "further breach" of financial rules.

"Update: Everton face the possibility of a further points deduction next season after the independent commission dealing with their Profitability and Sustainability case could not decide on whether costs of £6.5 million related to a further breach."

It really is such a grim state of affairs at Everton currently, and fans have every right to feel aggrieved at the almost bizarre randomness with which the punishments have been dished out. To have the threat of a lingering deduction hovering over them in 2024/25 is a huge concern even if they stay up, especially with the move to Bramley Moore Dock happening at the end of next season.

This is without even mentioning the possible takeover of Everton by 777 Partners, which has seemingly gone on forever, with no end currently in sight despite rumours approval is on the way. All fans want is some stability – something that will hopefully come when Farhad Moshiri leaves and new owners are in place – but everything from the financial issues to the takeover situation is making for one of the bleakest periods at Goodison in some time.

Everton now happy to accept bid for £100,000-a-week star instead of Onana

His time at Goodison Park could be reaching its conclusion.

ByHenry Jackson Apr 8, 2024

Thankfully, Dyche and his players are doing enough on the pitch to steer clear of danger currently, even with their points penalties, and they deserve real credit for the manner in which they have stuck to their task at such a difficult time.

Julian Alvarez proved his value to Argentina, as his goal set tone and led club to Copa America final

After all, Lionel Messi did show up.

The Argentine had received his fair share of criticism in what had been a goal-less run in the Copa America, and with good reason. His performance had been far short of his usual standards in his nation’s colors.

They beat Canada 2-0 in the Copa semifinals at MetLife Stadium, and advanced to Sunday's final, awaiting the winner of Colombia-Uruguay. And in reality it was never really that close. La Albiceleste strolled through the game for the most part. 

Julian Alvarez may have done enough to earn himself a spot in the XI for good, with the Man City forward finally finding his best at the right time – and did so while Messi returned to his usual self.

Clean, concise, and in the right place at the right time. Age aside, Messi remains crucial to Argentina's success.

Canada offered some attacking ideas. They have certainly improved in such a short period of time under Jesse Marsch.

“I've been saying that it'll be hard when we're all done to say goodbye because I've really enjoyed the process with this team, and I think we've made a lot of progress together," Marsch said postgame. "I took this job seven weeks ago. I couldn't have imagined that I'd be right here right now … 'm really happy with the team and really happy with the progress."

Alphonso Davies caused problems, but exited the game with an injury – and Canada's dreams ended with his substitution late. In the end, they lacked the clinical nature of the reigning champions, and it showed.

And Argentina simply stood taller. Lionel Scaloni has now led this side to three straight tournament finals. Chances are, he is in line for a third win. GOAL breaks down the winners and losers from MetLife Stadium.

• Getty Images
  

  WINNER: Julian Alvarez

  Argentina's team picks itself these days. Scaloni has mostly the same group of players that won the 2022 World Cup, and with no injuries to contend with, the manager doesn't have many big decisions to make. But the form of Lautaro Martinez – who turned in a number of impressive showings in the group stage – complicated things for Scaloni. Here, he decided to stick with Alvarez, who had played such a crucial role in Qatar 18 months ago. And his decision paid dividends.

  Alvarez wasn't relentlessly involved in play. But he made a constant impact. He made all of the right runs into space, fought for loose balls, and hounded the Canada backline. When his moment came, Alvarez pounced, taking his goal well after making a smart run between the split center backs. Scaloni, it seems, made the right call.

Advertisement

• Getty Images
  

  LOSER: Alphonso Davies

  The Bayern Munich man faces a number of questions about his future. His contract in Germany is running down, and there is reportedly little talk of a new deal to stay in Bavaria. Linked with a move abroad, Real Madrid has shown immense interest, but nothing has arrived in concrete form.

  This summer, then, figured to be something of a distraction – if not an opportunity for a top-tier talent to re-assert himself as a global star. And for three weeks, all looked well. Davies has been integral to this Canada side's surprise success, scampering up and down the left wing with glee.

  On Tuesday, though, his luck ran out. Davies enjoyed some good moments, and made important driving runs early on. But early in the second half, his ankle gave out, forcing the captain off the pitch – and seeing his side's slim final hopes fade away as a result.

  Post-game, it was revealed he was taken to a local hospital for X-rays on what appeared to be an ankle injury. Marsch was concise with his commentd, leaving much to speculation.

  “We’re hopeful he’s OK but we’re not sure," the manager said.

• Getty Images
  

  WINNER: Lionel Messi

  It has been a less-than-perfect tournament for the Argentine in the country he now calls home. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has been short of his usual best for weeks, failing to find the net, and strolling around even more than usual. This was a player who didn't look particularly fit, whose last big moment for his national team may have slipped away.

  Of course, that all changed. Because this is Messi, and Messi does Messi things.

  His goal wasn't exactly a beauty – he rolled the ball in off a deflected shot from two yards out. But his impact on the game throughout was vital. He picked up the ball in pockets of space, created problems with his movement and threaded passes.

  Canada refused to man-mark the Argentine, and felt the impact dearly. Too often, numerous defenders slid towards him, and opened up gaps elsewhere. This was the perfect example of a late career Messi performance – one in which he was seldom on the ball, but made the most of his chances. Another international trophy might await.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

• Getty Images
  

  WINNER: The Copa America

  Well, the fans got at least one finalist they wanted. Brazil-Argentina would have been a dream rematch (even if the Selecao have struggled of late.) Of course, Brazil were bounced from the competition last week. And the presumptive favorites stayed alive with the win against Canada.

  International tournaments tend to be about spectacle. The big teams are supposed to play the big matches in front of as many fans as possible. The Copa America, in other words, Argentina in the final. They will have a tough time against the winner of Cololmbia-Uruguay, but they will certainly be considered likely winners in the fixture – an outcome that can only be good for the tournament.

Chelsea are one of the most entertaining sides to watch in the Premier League this season; if you're neutral, that is.

One week, they might lose 4-1 to Liverpool and 4-2 to Wolverhampton Wanderers, only to win at Villa Park and Selhurst Park 3-1 the following week.

Mauricio Pochettino has a talented core of promising youngsters at Stamford Bridge, and while that might be good for the long-term, it has hindered them this season as they currently sit in tenth, with the eighth-best attack and the 13th-best defence.

However, everything can change off the back of a great result, and the Pensioners have the chance to shock the rest of the league this evening as they travel to the Etihad to take on Pep Guardiola's Manchester City.

If it's anything like the pair's last meeting, fans will be in for a treat, and with a win in the previous game, Pochettino won't look to make more than three personal changes to the XI from Monday.

1

GK – Đorđe Petrović

One of the first names on the teamsheet currently is Serbian goalkeeper Đorđe Petrović.

The 24-year-old has been the team's number one since Robert Sanchez injured his wrist against Everton just before Christmas.

However, with some reasonably impressive performances between the sticks, he might just keep his place in the team, even with the Spaniard now supposedly back to full fitness.

2

RB – Malo Gusto

Another player in the team due to an injury is French right-back Malo Gusto.

The former Lyon ace was signed in the summer to act as cover for the increasingly injury-prone Reece James, and while he's had some shakey games this season, notably against Wolverhampton Wanderers, he's generally been a solid member of the squad.

He's started six of the last seven Premier League games, so it would be a big shock not to see him in action from the first minute against City.

3

CB – Thiago Silva

Axel Disasi will also almost certainly keep his place in the side, as the Frenchman has been reasonably impressive in the last couple of games.

He certainly hasn't had the smoothest of rides since joining the club in the summer, but considering he has started 92% of league games under Poch, it seems he has the manager's backing.

4

CB – Levi Colwill

The second centre-back spot brings with it the first change in the lineup, as Cobham graduate Levi Colwill comes in for the injured Thiago Silva.

The young Englishman came off the bench in the 61st minute against Palace on Monday night, so he should be fit enough to start at the Etihad.

A pairing of the 20-year-old "Rolls-Royce", as talent scout Jacek Kulig described him, and Disasi is likely the Blue's best chance of holding the marauding Erling Haaland at bay this evening.

5

LB – Ben Chilwell

With Colwill playing in his natural position of centre-back, Pochettino will almost certainly start Ben Chilwell at left-back.

Since recovering from his hamstring injury, the England international has started the previous three Premier League games, and while he certainly hasn't been at his best, he is Chelsea's best left-back.

6

DM – Moises Caicedo

The first midfielder in this XI is the £115m man himself, Moises Caicedo.

It has been a tough first season in west London for the Ecuadorian international, but he has shown glimpses of quality here and there, and while he was underwhelming on Monday night, he'll start this evening.

Poch has started the 22-year-old in 83% of league games this season, and he started for Brighton & Hove Albion last season when they drew with City at the Amex.

7

DM – Enzo Fernández

Starting alongside Caicedo is the man of the moment, Enzo Fernández.

Like his midfield partner, the World Cup winner has not had the easiest of rides since joining the Blues last year, but in recent games, he has stepped up a level.

He bossed Villa off the park in the FA Cup and scored an unreal free-kick, and while he wasn't quite as effective against Palace, he still scored another goal.

8

RM – Cole Palmer

The right-wing brings with it the second change in the lineup as Noni Madueke is benched for Cole Palmer to come in and fill the vacancy.

Madueke failed to deliver against Palace, and it was his mistake that led directly to the opening goal.

On the other hand, Palmer was quite impressive at Selhurst Park – delivering two assists – but considering the quality of the opponent tonight, it makes sense to try to bring him into the action more by starting him slightly deeper.

9

CAM – Conor Gallagher

Keeping his place as the most attacking midfielder in the XI is Conor Gallagher.

The fan-favourite has been reasonably impressive for most of the season and has finally added goals to his game with a strike against Aston Villa in the FA Cup and another couple against Palace on Monday.

The Englishman has started 96% of league games this season, so it's a sure bet he'll start this evening.

10

LM – Raheem Sterling

The third change to the team comes out on the left as Nicolas Jackson makes way for the experienced Raheem Sterling.

Jackson was impressive against Villa last week but was rather underwhelming against Palace on Monday – making just 26 touches – and with chances likely to be in short supply this evening, it makes sense to drop him to the bench.

Moreover, the "incredible" Sterling, as dubbed by former manager Guardiola, was unreal in the last game against City.

He scored Chelsea's second goal of the game and was given a 9/10 for his performance by the Standard's Nizaar Kinsella.

Juventus could offer a key player to secure Mason Greenwood from Manchester United this summer, according to reports.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

• Juventus eye Greenwood
• Not willing to meet €50m price tag
• Could offer key player in swap deal

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  According to , Federico Chiesa could be offered to the Red Devils in a potential move for the former England international. Greenwood is a target for the the Old Lady but they are not willing to meet the £42 million (€50m/$53m) asking price for the player.

Advertisement

• Getty Images
  

  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Greenwood impressed while on loan at Getafe last season, scoring five goals and adding one assist as he secured their Player of the Season award for 2023-24. He is now attracting interest from multiple clubs, including Juventus and Lazio, with his time at Old Trafford looking all but finished.

  Chiesa is a very sellable asset for Juventus currently given his deal expires in 2025, although his future will not be decided until after Euro 2024.

• WHAT WAS SAID

  Journalist Fabrizio Romano has issued an update on the future of Chiesa at Juventus, which could still see him stay in black and white. "Juventus and Federico Chiesa's agent Ramadani have already decided to meet after the Euros in order to decide his future," he said.

  "No negotiations over new deal at this stage, Juve are still open to proposals but Chiesa's decision will be after Euro2024. Full focus on the pitch."

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

• Getty
  

  WHAT NEXT FOR CHIESA?

  After securing a 2-1 win against Albania but suffering a 1-0 loss to Spain, Chiesa and his Italy team-mates must regroup before facing Croatia in the coming days to ensure they progress to the knockout stages of the tournament in Germany. They currently sit in second place of Group B, two points ahead of Croatia in third.

CSA also name a mix of experienced and upcoming players for spin camp in India

ESPNcricinfo staff12-Aug-2019

An impressive debut international season has helped Rassie van der Dassen earn a central contract•Getty Images

Rassie van der Dussen has earned a Cricket South Africa contract for the 2019-20 season, having met the criteria to qualify during South Africa’s World Cup 2019 campaign.In an otherwise lacklustre campaign, van der Dussen was among South Africa’s bright spots, scoring 311 runs at an average of 62.20 and a strike rate of 90.40. He will become the 17th player on a national contract, taking the spot left vacant following Duanne Olivier’s decision to take the Kolpak route.In the women’s team, wicketkeeper Sinalo Jafta is one point away from qualifying for a full 12-month contract. She could earn that point if she is selected for the women’s upcoming tour of India in September and plays in at least one match.”Rassie’s promotion is thoroughly justified on the back of a brilliant debut season at international level and has also served as an inspiration to all aspiring cricketers at domestic level of what can be achieved by showing top-class form on a consistent basis,” CSA chief Thabang Moroe said.Spin camp in India
South Africa will also be sending several players, including those who have played for the national team and those who are viewed as potential candidates, to a spin camp that will take place in Bengaluru from August 17 to 23. Both South Africa A and the national team will be touring India in the final quarter of the year. But Moroe indicated that the move to familiarise themselves with subcontinent conditions was also keeping in mind the long term, with the 2023 World Cup scheduled in India.The group of players includes Aiden Markram, Temba Bavuma and Dane Piedt, who will be accompanied by a number of coaches and technical staff. Former national coach and current South Africa A coach Russell Domingo will head the support staff, and he’ll have former players Ashwell Prince and Paul Adams as batting and spin consultants with him.”We have identified Aiden Markram, Zubayr Hamza and Temba Bavuma as key Proteas batsmen to benefit from this project and we have also included some of our potential stars of the future such as Janneman Malan and Sinethemba Qeshile, who have already both played for the Proteas, as well as Matthew Breetzke,” Moroe said.”The batting group is completed by two of our most consistent runs scorers in franchise cricket in Pieter Malan and Edward Moore. The bowling group is headed by the experience of Dane Piedt and includes highly promising talents, among them being Bjorn Fortuin, Tsepo Ndwandwa and Senuran Muthusamy.”It is a fact that most international cricket is played on the subcontinent these days and we have to look ahead not only to the tours on the immediate horizon but the next edition of the World Cup in India in 2023.”Batsmen for spin camp: Aiden Markram, Janneman Malan, Zubayr Hamza, Matthew Breetzke, Sinethemba Qeshile, Edward Moore, Temba Bavuma, Pieter Malan.Bowlers for spin camp: Dane Piedt, Bjorn Fortuin, Tsepo Ndwandwa, Senuran Muthusamy, Thomas Kaber, Dyllan Mathews, George Linde.Support staff for spin camp: Russell Domingo (South Africa A coach), Ashwell Prince (batting consultant), Paul Adams (spin consultant), Sidwe Hadebe (physio), Vincent Barnes (high performance manager).

Arsenal vs Liverpool is a meeting between two of English football’s most decorated teams.

These two sides have played out some classics over the years, and we have taken a look back at some of the greatest clashes between the clubs.

For this list, we’ve picked out the top 8 matches, ordered solely by the amount of pure drama that has unfolded across meetings in the league, cup, and in Europe. There has certainly not been any shortage of that over the years…

8 Arsenal 3-2 Liverpool, October 2022 Gunners continue title tilt with dramatic victory

Arsenal 3

Liverpool 2

Martinelli 1′

Nunez 34′

Saka 45+5′

Firmino 53′

Saka pen 76′

The 2022/23 campaign saw both these clubs reverse their fortunes somewhat, as perennial title challengers Liverpool were eventually left to settle for a Europa League place, while the Gunners almost took champions Manchester City all the way in the race for the Premier League.

Back in the autumn of 2022, the Gunners were on a roll under Mikel Arteta, winning seven of their first eight games, with over twice as many points as their opponents heading into this one.

And the events on the pitch looked to have followed the form book when Gabriel Martinelli opened the scoring inside a minute, only for Darwin Nunez to strike back for the visitors.

Bukayo Saka edged the Gunners in front on the stroke of half-time before Roberto Firmino netted a second equaliser.

There was a little controversy surrounding the winner, with Thiago adjudged to have fouled Gabriel Jesus in the box, leaving Saka with the opportunity to hand the home side the lead once more from the spot – one that he did not pass up as he settled an enthralling encounter.

The Gunners held on in a rare Premier League success for the north Londoners – it remains their only league win over Liverpool since the summer of 2020.

7 Liverpool 3-6 Arsenal, January 2007 Arsenal’s young guns school shellshocked Reds at Anfield

Liverpool 3

Arsenal 6

Fowler 33′

Aliadiere 27′

Gerrard 68′

Baptista 40′

Hyypia 80′

Song 45′

Baptista 45′

Baptista 60′

Baptista 84′

Neither of these clubs had much to write home about by the end of this campaign, with Liverpool and Arsenal both losing finalists in the Champions League and League Cup respectively while both sealing their places in the top four.

But en route to the Carling Cup final in Cardiff that year, the Gunners came up against a Liverpool side they had beaten just three days earlier in the FA Cup, hoping history would repeat itself. It would – and then some.

A Tomas Rosicky double and a Thierry Henry special helped Arsene Wenger’s side over the line on the preceding weekend, but as was customary in the League Cup in those days, the Frenchman let those on the fringes of the first team take centre stage for this quarter-final.

No one did that more so than on-loan Sevilla forward Julio Baptista, who netted four that night at Anfield to seal a semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur.

Baptista was greatly aided by Jeremie Aliadiere, who opened the scoring, while Alex Song’s goal helped to secure a commanding 4-1 half-time lead as the Gunners cancelled out Robbie Fowler’s equaliser.

The Brazilian helped himself to a second-half double – while missing a penalty – to complete the flood of goalscoring, with Steven Gerrard’s emphatic volley and Sami Hyypia’s header mere consolations on a bizarre night on Merseyside.

Related Ranking the 10 best Carabao Cup matches of all time

With the Carabao Cup in full swing, Football FanCast has taken a look back at the best games in the competition’s past…

Posts ByJack Salveson Holmes Oct 1, 2023 6 Liverpool 5-5 Arsenal, October 2019 Reds prevail as ten-goal bonanza settled by spot-kicks

Liverpool 5

Arsenal 5

Mustafi og 6′

Torreira 19′

Milner pen 43′

Martinelli 26′

Oxlade-Chamberlain 58′

Martinelli 36′

Origi 62′

Maitland-Niles 54′

Origi 90+4′

Willock 70′

Liverpool win 5-4 on penalties

There must something in the air when these two meet in the League Cup, though Jurgen Klopp’s side were not to make the same mistake when Arsenal’s youngsters threatened to play them off the Anfield park again.

Liverpool had not long been crowned European champions, while Arsenal were in their second season under Unai Emery, who had already tasted heavy defeats from Klopp’s men by this point.

And it looked like it would be the same again when Shkodran Mustafi put through his own net to give the hosts the lead, but within half an hour, the Gunners were 3-1 up thanks to Lucas Torreira and a brace from Gabriel Martinelli, who was making a name for himself in the cup competitions.

James Milner’s penalty reduced the arrears as the teams continued to trade goals galore, with Joe Willock’s strike – Arsenal’s fifth – the pick of the bunch.

There was an air of inevitability about the Liverpool equaliser, but it nevertheless came four minutes into added time from Divock Origi, who notched his second of the night to take the game to penalties.

Dani Ceballos was the man to fluff his lines from the spot as Liverpool edged what was another cup classic.

5 Arsenal 1-1 Liverpool, April 2011 Liverpool ruin Arsenal title challenge after two extraordinary twists

Arsenal 1

Liverpool 1

Van Persie pen 90+8′

Kuyt pen 90+12′

Arsenal still had hopes of title glory heading into this one – the Gunners were hoping to cut Manchester United’s lead at the top to just four points ahead of a title tussle at the start of May, while Liverpool were in transition having dismissed Roy Hodgson earlier in the campaign, with Sir Kenny Dalglish back in the dugout.

The Gunners will have thought they had snatched it late on when Robin van Persie struck home a penalty deep into stoppage time – owing to a serious injury to Jamie Carragher – to send the Emirates crowd berserk.

However, the party atmosphere was swiftly dampened when a clumsy Emmanuel Eboue was deemed to have fouled Lucas Leiva in the area following a Liverpool free kick which ought to have been the final kick of the game.

Alas, referee Andre Marriner would point to the spot, allowing Dirk Kuyt to smash home the latest of late equalisers – his 102nd-minute goal was the latest ever recorded in the Premier League.

Arsenal would later collapse to fourth place, while Liverpool recovered somewhat the following year by making two cup finals under Dalglish.

Related The latest injury-time goals scored in 2023-24 Premier League season

FFC takes a look at the latest goals scored in Premier League matches this season.

Posts ByMark Marston Mar 4, 2024 4 Arsenal 1-2 Liverpool, May 2001 Owen double breaks Arsenal hearts as Houllier’s cup kings triumph

Arsenal 1

Liverpool 2

Ljungberg 72′

Owen 82′

Owen 87′

2001 was a special year for Liverpool; while they may not have had the league success craved by many, they did manage to secure the next best thing: a cup treble.

The first part of that treble was secured in February 2001, when Gerard Houllier’s side saw off First Division outfit Birmingham City on penalties at the Millennium Stadium. Returning to the same venue to make it two from two, they didn’t look like doing that when Freddie Ljungberg put Arsenal ahead with less than 20 minutes remaining.

But Michael Owen managed to single-handedly turn the game on its head, with the striker stabbing the ball home to equalise late on before an even later winner securing what had looked an unlikely comeback. It left Arsenal empty-handed for the season, though they would bounce back by lifting the Premier League the following year, with Liverpool in second.

The Reds would go through even more drama on their way to the UEFA Cup, beating Alaves 5-4 in Dortmund after extra-time.

3 Liverpool 4-2 Arsenal, April 2008 Gerrard and co edge Gunners in Champions League classic

Liverpool 4

Arsenal 2

Hyypia 30′

Diaby 13′

Torres 69′

Adebayor 84′

Gerrard pen 86′

Babel 90′

Liverpool win 5-3 on aggregate

Liverpool may have been slight favourites for this Champions League quarter-final second leg, with the Reds taking an away goal into the deciding tie at Anfield, which started level at 1-1.

This game was part of a so-called trilogy, with Arsenal and Liverpool going head-to-head at the Emirates twice in a week in Europe and the Premier League before the winner-takes-all clash three days later. While both prior games ended 1-1, there had to be a winner one way or another here.

The first leg had its fair share of chaos, with Alexander Hleb denied what looked a stonewall penalty and Nicklas Bendtner inexplicably blocking the ball from going into Liverpool’s net. The second was just as frantic.

Arsenal set their stall out early by nicking an away goal for themselves thanks to Abou Diaby, only for Sami Hyypia to level things up on the night and on aggregate.

Fernando Torres then gave Liverpool their first true lead in the tie when he smashed home, until a magical, mazy run from Theo Walcott cut through almost the entire Liverpool team as he squared for Emmanuel Adebayor to net a second away goal for Arsenal, who were less than ten minutes away from a semi-final date with Chelsea.

But the kings of Europe found a way, albeit through a contentious-looking penalty decision as Ryan Babel was felled by Kolo Toure. Gerrard was on hand to send Anfield into raptures, and with Arsenal desperate for another equaliser, they were hit on the break again as Babel ran clear to settle the tie once and for all.

2 Liverpool 4-4 Arsenal, April 2009 Four-goal Arshavin dents title hopes for title chasers Liverpool

Liverpool 4

Arsenal 4

Torres 49′

Arshavin 36′

Benayoun 56′

Arshavin 67′

Torres 72′

Arshavin 70′

Benayoun 90+3

Arshavin 90′

While scoring four at Anfield was nothing new as far as Arsenal strikers were concerned, it’s difficult to look past Andrey Arshavin’s quadruple and the ding-dong game that ensued as the Reds looked to hunt down Manchester United in the Premier League title race.

Despite losing just twice all season, Liverpool were only a point behind the Red Devils and had already played a game more than the then-champions, so three more were much-needed here.

Unfortunately, Arsenal were having a decent campaign on the road, having beaten Chelsea away from home and seen off the likes of Roma on the way to the Champions League semi-finals.

So despite having little to play for in the league and big ties on the horizon, Arsenal certainly didn’t show it, with Arshavin handing the Gunners a precious half-time lead.

Yossi Benayoun and Torres hauled Liverpool in front before the Russian struck twice more – the first of those being an absolute screamer past Pepe Reina.

Torres netted an equaliser to set up a grand finale, during which Walcott raced away in similar fashion to his exploits in the previous season and laid it on a plate for Arshavin’s fourth in the 90th minute.

However, Arsenal would again surrender their advantage as Benayoun popped up at the death to momentarily take Liverpool top of the league, but it was not enough come the end of the campaign, with both clubs ending promising seasons trophyless.

1 Liverpool 0-2 Arsenal, May 1989 “It’s up for grabs now…”

Liverpool 0

Arsenal 2

Smith 53′

Thomas 90′

There could really only be one game to round off this list. Considered by some to be the greatest league finale of all time – even in light of Sergio Aguero’s title-clincher in 2012 – the heroics of this Arsenal team have been etched into every Gunners fan’s psyche and even immortalised on film.

Despite boasting a sizeable lead at one stage, Arsenal were letting their league challenge slip, so much so, that Liverpool – champions in 9 of the previous 13 seasons – had almost everything in their hands heading into the final match of the campaign, as only a two-goal defeat would see the Gunners nick the title from under their noses.

It was indeed an emotionally charged night at Anfield, with the game being held back due to the tragic events at Hillsborough just six weeks before; Arsenal players entered the field with flowers to mark their respects.

Going in goalless at the break, it was all going to plan for the hosts, although Alan Smith’s contested header early in the second half left the tie, and indeed the championship, on a knife-edge.

For Arsenal, it was a case of striking at the perfect moment. Having held out the likes of Ian Rush, John Barnes and John Aldridge at the other end, they went in search of the elusive second goal well into stoppage time.

Midfielder Mickey Thomas – who would later don the colours of Liverpool – proved to be the Anfield side’s nemesis, as he picked up Alan Smith’s lofted pass and slotted past Bruce Grobbelaar to snatch the First Division from Liverpool’s grasp in the most dramatic fashion possible.

Tom Huddlestone announced that he has departed Manchester United after spending two seasons in a player-coach role with the Under-21s.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

Huddlestone leaves Man UtdJoined in 2022 in a player-coach capacityMade a few appearances in Premier League 2WHAT HAPPENED?

Huddlestone, 37, arrived at Old Trafford in 2022 and stepped into a dual role, succeeding his former Hull City teammate Paul McShane. Over the two-year period, he made 24 appearances, bringing his wealth of experience to United's promising young talents.

AdvertisementTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Huddlestone's football journey began at Derby County, where he made his senior debut at just 16 years old in 2003. He quickly made a name for himself, earning 95 appearances for the Rams before moving to Tottenham Hotspur in 2005. His eight-year stint in North London was highlighted by a League Cup victory in 2008 and four caps for the England national team. After his successful period at Tottenham, Huddlestone returned to Hull City, where he had two separate spells, and later returned to Derby County before joining Manchester United.

WHAT HUDDLESTONE SAID

Huddlestone put out a statement on social media that read: "Today marks my final days at this incredible football club. Over the past two seasons, I have experienced remarkable growth and invaluable learning, both on and off the pitch. Every day, I have had the privilege of learning from amazing people, gaining insights into all aspects of player development and well-being. Entering an office environment for the first time was daunting, but from day one, I was made to feel welcome and at ease. I am and will remain forever grateful for the smooth transition. For any senior professionals considering a coaching career, I highly recommend taking on a 'playing coach' role for a season or two at the end of your playing career.

"This experience has been eye-opening, revealing the dedication involved in planning, executing, and analysing every training session, as well as meticulously preparing for the games schedule. These efforts are often taken for granted as a player, so witnessing and participating in this side of the game has been truly remarkable. I wish the club every success in the future. Special thanks to everyone in the academy, both players and staff, especially Trav, Demps, Nick and Macca, for affording me this incredible opportunity. Best of luck in the future."

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT?

Huddlestone scored his only goal in Premier League 2 this campaign against Manchester City in a 2-1 win. As he leaves United, it remains uncertain whether Huddlestone will retire from football at the age of 37 to focus solely on coaching.