Here’s our Premier League Thursday update of the latest Premier League news, confirmed transfers, rumours and much more besides.
Starting with a heartwarming return to action for a player out of football for ten months.
Premier League Thursday
Sandro Tonali’s Triumphant Return
One of the most heartwarming stories of the season so far is the return of Sandro Tonali to competitive football. After serving a 10-month betting ban, Tonali made his comeback in Newcastle’s Carabao Cup 1-1 draw against Nottingham Forest. The match ended in a thrilling penalty shootout, with Newcastle emerging victorious 4-3.
Tonali’s return was met with a warm reception from the Newcastle supporters, who were thrilled to see him back on the pitch. His performance was commendable, and he played for just over an hour before being replaced by Sean Longstaff.
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Carabao Cup Second Round Results & Third Round Draw
The Carabao Cup has already provided some exciting moments this season and this week saw some surprising results.
League Two Barrow knocked out Championship Derby County on penalties, while Blackpool of League One despatched Blackburn Rovers 2-1.
The biggest shock saw AFC Wimbledon defeat Ipswich 4-2 on penalties after a 2-2 draw.
The draw for the next round has already been made, and there are some intriguing matchups to look forward to.
AFC Wimbledon will face Newcastle, while Chelsea will host Barrow. Other notable fixtures include Liverpool vs. West Ham at Anfield, Arsenal vs. Bolton, and Manchester City vs. Watford.
The full draw for the Carabao Cup Third Round is as follows:
– AFC Wimbledon vs Newcastle United
– Arsenal vs Bolton Wanderers
– Blackpool vs Sheffield Wednesday
– Brentford vs Leyton Orient
– Brighton vs Wolves
– Chelsea vs Barrow
– Coventry City vs Tottenham
– Everton vs Southampton
– Liverpool vs West Ham United
– Manchester City vs Watford
– Manchester United vs Barnsley
– Preston North End vs Fulham
– Stoke City vs Fleetwood Town
– QPR vs Crystal Palace
– Walsall vs Leicester City
– Wycombe Wanderers vs Aston Villa
Player Suspensions Impacting Uruguay World Cup Hopes
Player suspensions have also been a talking point early in the season. Darwin Nunez of Liverpool received a five-game ban for international football matches after clashing with fans during a game with Uruguay. Similarly, Rodrigo Bentancur of Tottenham received a four-match international ban.
These suspensions, along with several others for Uruguayan stars, will force Uruguay boss Marcelo Bielsa to make some changes for forthcoming World Cup Qualifying games.
Harry Kane’s Reflections on His Move to Bayern Munich
Former Tottenham star Harry Kane has been reflecting on his move to Bayern Munich. Kane, who won the European Golden Shoe last season, has expressed his satisfaction with the move. He believes that the change has provided him with new challenges and opportunities to grow as a player.
Kane’s departure from Tottenham was a significant moment in the 2023 transfer window, and his reflections contrast with reports suggesting the England captain wanted to return back to the Premier League.
Liverpool Manager Arne Slot Impresses
Liverpool’s new manager, Arne Slot, has made a positive impression early in the season. Former Liverpool player Danny Murphy has praised Slot for his tactical acumen and his ability to get the best out of his players.
Slot’s approach has brought a fresh perspective to the team, and Liverpool fans are optimistic about the direction in which the club is heading. The upcoming match against Manchester United will be a significant test for Slot and his team.
Crystal Palace’s Ambitions for the Season
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has outlined the club’s ambitions for the season. Despite facing challenges in the transfer window, Glasner insists that the team aims to fight for silverware. Glasner is confident that the team can compete at the highest level. With his birthday coming up this week, Glasner quipped that the present he would most like is a birthday free of transfer rumours regarding the sale of his star platers Marc Guehi and Eberechi Eze.
Everton’s Struggles and Carabao Cup Win
Everton has had a tough start to the Premier League season, but their recent 3-0 win over Doncaster in the Carabao Cup has provided a much-needed boost. Manager Sean Dyche expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance in their victory over Rovers.
Despite their struggles in the league, the Carabao Cup has given the team a morale boost over the past few seasons. Dyche is hopeful that this victory will serve as a turning point for Everton as they look to improve their awful league form.
Brighton Injury Update
Brighton has been dealt a blow with the injury to new signing Matt O’Riley. O’Riley, who joined Brighton from Celtic for £25 million, suffered an ankle injury just nine minutes into his debut. The injury has sidelined him for the foreseeable future and manager Fabian Hurzeler was critical of the challenge that injured the former Celtic star in their Carabao Cup win over Crawley Town.
Our Premier League Team of the Weekend
Here’s BRC’s team of the weekend for the last set of Premier League fixtures.
- Goalkeeper – David Raya (Arsenal)
- Right Back – Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)
- Left Back – Josko Gvardiol (Manchester City)
- Central Defender – William Saliba (Arsenal)
- Central Defender – Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
- Central Midfielder – Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
- Central Midfielder – Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingham Forest)
- Attacking Midfielder – Son Hyeong-min (Tottenham)
- Left Winger – Noni Madueke (Chelsea)
- Right Winger – Luis Diaz (Liverpool)
- Central Striker – Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
Erling Haaland’s Celebration Inspired by KSI
Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has been in the spotlight not just for his goals but also for his celebrations. Haaland’s recent celebration after scoring a hat-trick against Ipswich was inspired by YouTuber KSI.
The celebration has garnered attention on social media, with fans appreciating the light-hearted moment.
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Liverpool Snap Up Chiesa and Mamardashvili
While the focus has been on the on-field action, transfer news and speculations continue to make headlines. Liverpool have completed a cut-price low-risk move for Juventus forward Federico Chiesa. The club has also announced the signing of Giorgi Mamardashvili, who will be loaned back to Valencia for the season.
The Reds have also been linked with Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, although Reds fans would love to hear some positive news about potential contract talks with Mo Salah, Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Chelsea Duo Set For Serie A Switch
Two of the thirteen players banished from the Chelsea first team squad are on their way from Stamford Bridge. Romelu Lukaku has joined Napoli in a £30m transfer, which seems to pave the way for Victor Osimhen’s departure from Naples. Meanwhile midfielder Tino Anjorin has agreed a cut-price three-year switch to Empoli.
Brighton Snap Up Ferdi Kadioglu
Brighton have made another outstanding signing in the shape of Turkish international left back Ferdi Kadioglu for £25m. The former Fenerbache full-back was one of the best full backs at Euro 2024, with his dynamic performances for Turkey down the left catching the eye. He will compete with Pervis Estupinan for a place in the team.
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Virgil van Dijk on His Liverpool Future
Virgil van Dijk remains calm about his future at Liverpool as he enters the final season of his contract. Van Dijk, who last signed terms in the summer of 2021 after missing most of the previous season due to injury, is focused on his performances on the field.
The Dutch defender has been a key player for Liverpool, and his future at the club is a topic of interest, and concern for Reds fans and pundits alike.
David Carmo Signs for Nottingham Forest, Loaned Back to Olympiacos
David Carmo has signed for Nottingham Forest from Porto for approximately £10 million ($13.2m). However, he has been immediately loaned back to Olympiacos. This strategic move allows Carmo to gain valuable experience while Nottingham Forest retains his rights. The club’s management believes that this loan spell will help Carmo develop further and be ready to contribute to the team in following seasons.
Thomas Frank Uncertain About Ivan Toney’s Future at Brentford
Thomas Frank, the manager of Brentford, has admitted uncertainty over whether Ivan Toney will stay post-transfer deadline. There has been interest from Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli, while Chelsea and Arsenal have been linked with a late move for the England international striker. Toney’s future remains in the balance heading towards the end of the deadline.
Carlo Ancelotti Confirms Andriy Lunin Will Stay at Real Madrid
Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Andriy Lunin will stay at Real Madrid despite previous links away. Lunin is close to signing a new contract until 2028, which will secure his future at the club. Ancelotti’s confirmation has put an end to the speculation surrounding Lunin’s departure.
The young goalkeeper is seen as a valuable asset for Real Madrid, and the new contract reflects the club’s confidence in his abilities. It also may signal the end of Real Madrid’s purported interest in Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Crystal Palace Considering Move for Eddie Nketiah
After Nottingham Forest’s failed attempt, Crystal Palace is now considering moving for Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah. Nketiah, who has been on the radar of several clubs, is seen as a potential addition to Crystal Palace’s attacking options.
The club’s management is evaluating the feasibility of the move, and discussions are ongoing. Nketiah’s future remains uncertain, and the next few days will be crucial in determining his next destination.
Arrival of Mikel Merino at Arsenal
Arsenal have confirmed the arrival of Mikel Merino to help improve their options in midfield. Merino, who is comfortable playing in the left half-space, is more of a box-to-box player than a tempo-setter. His addition would provide Arsenal with more options in midfield and help balance the team’s dynamics. The club’s management is keen on strengthening the squad to challenge Manchester City once again this season, and Merino’s arrival could be a significant boost.
Napoli Reach Agreement with Manchester United for Scott McTominay
Napoli has reached an agreement with Manchester United for the transfer of Scott McTominay. The proposed deal is subject to the player agreeing terms with the Italian side, although this is reported to be a formality. The reported fee is expected to be around €30 million (£25.4m; $33.6m). McTominay’s move to Napoli is seen as a strategic addition to their midfield. The player is expected to bring his experience and skills to the Serie A side, who have not made a good start to the season under Antonio Conte.
Maximo Perrone Joins Como on Loan from Manchester City
Maximo Perrone has joined Serie A side Como on loan from Manchester City. Perrone, who was signed by Manchester City in January from Velez Sarsfield, is looking to gain more playing time and experience in Italy.
The loan move is seen as an opportunity for Perrone to develop further and showcase his talent in a competitive league. Manchester City will be monitoring his progress closely during the loan spell.
Lee Carsley Names First England Squad
England interim manager Lee Carsley has named his first England squad for the Nations League games against Republic of Ireland and Finland.
Four players are new to the squad; Angel Gomes (Lille), Tino Livramento (Newcastle), Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingham Forest) and Noni Madueke (Chelsea).
Nick Pope, Harry Maguire and Jack Grealish have been recalled to the squad.
Kieran Trippier has announced his retirement from international football while Adam Ramsdale, Joe Gomez, Lewis Dunk, Ivan Toney and Adam Wharton have been left out of the squad that were selected at Euro 2024.
