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With the pressure on Ruben Amorim refusing to go away even after victory over Sunderland, Paul Scholes has now named the manager he believes should come in as a replacement at Manchester United.

Amorim still under pressure at Man Utd

Whilst some reports have reiterated that Amorim will be given a full season at Old Trafford, defeat against Sunderland would have no doubt tested the limit of that stance.

For now, the former Sporting Club boss remains in a job after goals from Mason Mount and Benjamin Sesko secured a long-awaited comfortable victory for the Red Devils, but the pressure is still on.

Speaking after what was a much-needed win, the United boss told reporters: “That is the kind of game where when we’re not playing well we’re defending well. We had our moments, we were focussed and competitive.

“Not the perfect performance. Senne [Lammens] did really well. We were a competitive and adult team today. We need to win these games with a clean sheet. Good for us.

“We need to understand that we need everyone to be ready to play. It’s a long season, we have a lot of problems, anything can happen. The important thing is that the teammates helped Lammens a lot to have a very good performance.”

Man Utd's "unstoppable" £420k-p/w duo can help Sesko reach Haaland levels

Benjamin Sesko has begun to impress in a Man Utd shirt, although can Ruben Amorim help him to hit the heights of Erling Haaland?

2 ByRobbie Walls Oct 7, 2025

With the pressure still on Amorim to turn things around for good, reports have emerged regarding a number of candidates that INEOS could turn to in the coming months.

Former England boss Gareth Southgate, Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner and Fulham’s Marco Silva have all been among those in the headlines, but it remains to be seen if they’ll be needed.

A move for Glasner would be particularly impressive, given that the Austrian has just led Palace to a 19-game unbeaten run and taken them into European football. Alas, if it was down to Scholes, he’d go out and pick a different Premier League manager.

Scholes "definitely" wants Eddie Howe at Man Utd

Speaking on The Overlap, Scholes revealed that he “definitely” wants to see Eddie Howe at Man United. The Newcastle United boss stands out as the top name to replace Amorim, in his opinion, even if the move would be incredibly difficult to pull off from a side in the Magpies’ position.

The Old Trafford legend said, when asked who he’d like to see: “Eddie Howe, Eddie Howe. I’m not sure about his mate [assistant manager Jason Tindall], but definitely him.”

Although unlikely, if there is a chance for United to chase Howe’s signature, then they should go all in. He is one of the most reputable managers in the Premier League and has taken Newcastle from relegation contenders to Champions League qualifiers. It’s the exact type of transformation that the Red Devils so desperately need.

Games

19

Wins

7

Losses

3

Draws

9

Having lost seven times in 19 games against sides led by Howe, Man United have seen what he’s capable of first-hand and, more importantly, know just how adaptable he is on a tactical front. If the chance comes their way, the Newcastle boss should sit top of their list of Amorim replacements.

While much of the early-season crisis talk has centred on Manchester United and Liverpool, Chelsea have quietly slipped below their biggest Premier League rivals, finding themselves ninth after nine games. Consistently inconsistent, Saturday's shock home defeat to Sunderland has left them at a crossroads, with plenty of issues to address if they are to avoid their season drifting into mediocrity.

"I think in general we were not good enough," head coach Enzo Maresca said in the wake of the oh-so-predictable late 2-1 loss to the newly-promoted Black Cats, where his side had been second-best throughout. "When you are not good enough in the Premier League we know that the consequences can be bad. I have said many times, when you are not able to win, it is important you do not lose."

That third defeat in nine games has deservedly left Chelsea down in mid-table, with no-one really sure of what the league's youngest squad is capable of; they feel as close to a full-blown crisis as they do to mounting a push for a top-four place.

Maresca, then, has plenty of work to do, but time is on his side and the fixture list could provide him with the ideal opportunity for the Blues to kickstart their campaign.

AFPWin against 'lesser' opposition

It's Chelsea's inability to overcome the teams that, on paper, they should be beating that has cost them dearly so far this season, with the agonising late home defeat to newly-promoted Sunderland at the weekend just the latest example of Maresca's side failing to impose themselves as favourites.

The Blues have now dropped points in uninspiring performances against Crystal Palace, Brentford, Manchester United (when Ruben Amorim's men were in the depths of their early-season woes), Brighton and the Black Cats, with the latter three results all defeats. Those struggles were belied, though, by the rousing victory over champions Liverpool before the October international break.

The head coach is acutely aware they need to find some consistency, regardless of the opposition. "For sure, if you want to be there (a top team), you need consistency, something that winning four in a row and today’s game (against Sunderland), you can probably show that," Maresca said in the wake of the latest disappointment. "But because we lost points, we did not show that.

"If we can have that level (raises his hand high in the air) and this level (drops his hand much lower), probably it is better to have something in between. I think overall, since we started (the season), we performed much better compared to today’s game. We were not good enough. We did not create a lot, apart from the goal probably, and we struggled. We need our players to perform 100 per cent."

AdvertisementGetty Images SportMake Stamford Bridge a fortress

To make matters worse, the draw with Palace and defeats to Brighton and Sunderland all came at Stamford Bridge, while Chelsea were wholly unconvincing in the fortunate home wins over Fulham in the Premier League and Benfica in the Champions League. A home league record of two wins, one draw and two defeats simply isn't good enough.

Long gone are the days when Jose Mourinho made the Bridge an impregnable fortress across his two spells in the dugout, going 60 and later 77 home games unbeaten, but the Blues – and indeed their fans – must find a way to make their opponents fear visiting their stadium once again.

Perhaps a hangover from the club's struggles in recent years since the Boehly-Clearlake takeover, the atmosphere at the Bridge can sour quickly if things aren't going Chelsea's way. The collective groans and bursts of frustration from the stands visibly sap the confidence of the players on the pitch, with the young squad undoubtedly finding it difficult to step up in the face of vociferous criticism from their own supporters.

The victory over Liverpool – Chelsea's best performance of the season so far by some distance – demonstrated the power of their home crowd as Maresca's men were willed over the line by a raucous atmosphere that fuelled a late onslaught, eventually yielding a euphoric injury-time winner from Estevao Willian.

Getty Images SportStart stronger

So far this season, Chelsea have developed an unwanted reputation for being slow starters, with their sluggishness out of the blocks enabling their opponents to get on top of them and set the tone.

That was the case against West Ham, Fulham, Brentford and Manchester United, as well as Nottingham Forest and Ajax more recently, with an early red card for the Dutch giants significantly aiding their cause in that Champions League clash.

With the youngest squad in the Premier League, the widely-held view is that Chelsea lack the experience and know-how to manage games for the full 90 minutes, and the need to rotate because of injuries and the more demanding schedule are certainly playing their part following the club's return to the Champions League, but the Blues still must find a way to impose themselves early in games and use that momentum. Too often they are finding their supposed authority undermined from the first whistle.

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Getty Images SportDisciplinary issue

It's well documented that discipline has been a serious and debilitating issue for Chelsea in the opening few months of 2025-26, with the Blues ridiculously seeing red in four out of the six games they played in all competitions between September 20 and October 18.

Those misdemeanours were particularly costly in the consecutive league defeats to Manchester United and Brighton; Robert Sanchez was dismissed just five minutes into the former at Old Trafford with the scores goalless after charging out of his goal and clattering into Bryan Mbeumo, while Trevoh Chalobah was sent off for a last-man foul early in the second period in the latter when Chelsea were 1-0 up.

On both occasions, Maresca's side were unable to cope with the one-man deficit, as United went on to establish an insurmountable first-half lead and Brighton pulled level late on before bagging a stoppage-time winner of their own.

Having initially insisted Chelsea's indiscipline wasn't a problem, the head coach admitted after the most recent incident (Malo Gusto's needless red card at Nottingham Forest): "It's something that we can do better. The last one (Gusto's) is completely avoidable, because it’s 0-3, the game is finished. For sure there is something that we have to improve."

South Africa lost Bavuma early on day four but Markram’s glorious 136 took them over the line with five wickets to spare

Andrew McGlashan14-Jun-20251:53

Steyn on SA’s WTC win: ‘We saw the biggest of the biggest come through’

At 12.45pm on a sunny Saturday at Lord’s, South Africa secured the most significant moment in their cricket history with the World Test Championship title. It was not without nerves – how could it be? – but this time there was no agony at the end. Aiden Markram took them to the brink with an epic 136, an innings that will go down as the country’s most important in Tests, before the winning runs were driven through the covers by Kyle Verreynne to spark the celebrations.No longer was the 1998 ICC Knockout, with its various names and caveats, the only reference point for South Africa’s global success. After so many near misses, they had a crowning moment. It will be a hugely popular victory, too, as the underdog story so often is, and as part of the wider narrative around the health of Test cricket outside of the Big Three.Related

'Together-together' – why South Africa's triumph matters on the long walk to freedom

South Africa revel on Lord's stage as WTC gets showpiece it deserves

Conrad: 'We're the world champions, we create our own reality'

'Would be great to not have to hear it again' – SA banish chokers tag

Introspection beckons as Australia leave Lord's less clear of a path forward

For all the success Australia have gathered over the years, this will be a bruising experience given they had managed to take a 74-run first-innings which had been extended into three figures before collapsing to 73 for 7 on the second evening. The lower order repaired some of the damage, and the bowlers gave it their all, but for once they finished second.Resuming on 213 for 2 needing 69 more for victory and eight wickets in hand would not normally be a scene for great uncertainty, but this was no ordinary occasion. The first run of the day, a push into the covers by Temba Bavuma, was cheered loudly by a crowd heavily in favour of South Africa – as it had been throughout the game.Aiden Markram puts one away during his magnificent hundred•AFP/Getty ImagesBavuma had fought through the pain of a hamstring strain he picked up early in his innings, and left the team management contemplating retiring him hurt at tea yesterday, but instead he went on to forge the match-defining stand of 147 with Markram.There was no fairytale ending of Bavuma being there when the winning run were scored as he edged an excellent lifting delivery from Pat Cummins that just opened the door for Australia. The celebrations certainly suggested they still believed – while no one needed reminding of South Africa’s history – and the tension was palpable with runs hard to come by.Markram was able to relieve the pressure with occasional boundaries, including a square drive off Cummins the ball after being beaten on the drive and an even more authoritative pull.However, Australia made them earn every run. Mitchell Starc continued his outstanding match with a superb delivery to remove Tristan Stubbs with 41 still needed, which probably felt like 141 to anyone of a South African persuasion.Kyle Verreynne and David Bedingham celebrate the win•Getty ImagesAustralia’s desperation led to them burning their three reviews – two for lbws that weren’t especially close and another for a glove down the leg side against Stubbs the ball before he fell to Starc – and ironically, with scores level, Verreynne would glove an attempted scoop off Starc that wasn’t given out.An on-drive by David Bedingham off Cummins brought the requirement down to under 20 and the chants from the crowd grew again.Australia managed to stretch the game out to give them a brief burst with the second new ball but Josh Hazlewood’s first delivery with it was pinged off his pads by Markram with the next being worked away for three to bring the countdown to single figures.Markram was aiming leg side again when he picked out midwicket, but this time nothing was going to stop South Africa. As he started to walk off, a number of the Australians congratulated him. They knew they had been beaten by one of the great innings.

Mic'd Up: The former Canadian national team player backed Vancouver for MLS success, but says Miami might have found a groove

Kaylyn Kyle is Canadian and proud. And she finally has something to shout about in MLS. The Whitecaps were supposed to struggle this year. They fired their coach before the season started, and had their star man pick up a serious injury. There are rumors that the team could be sold – and, perhaps even relocated. 

So much for all of that. The Whitecaps are among MLS Cup favorites, and after winning the first of their best-of-three opening round series against FC Dallas, certainly look the part.

"It's such a great organization," Kyle, the Apple TV studio analyst, tells GOAL. "The ownership is amazing. The fan support is amazing. And I think that's the one thing is, they've shown up through the good, the bad and the ugly."

Thomas Muller is their star man. The former Bayern Munich forward has taken to MLS more effectively than most would have imagined. With him pulling the strings and grabbing the goals, they have a real chance. But his presence here alone is far more symbolic, Kyle argues.

"He was always going to suit Major League Soccer to perfection, and he's done just that," she says. "He's likable, and the fact that he chose to go to Vancouver tells you everything you need to know. Because no really global superstars ever choose to go to the Vancouver Whitecaps."

Of course, there will be some stiff competition here. Inter Miami made their first game look easy. LAFC will be there. FC Cincinnati look good. But this is the fun of MLS playoffs. They're chaotic. They're unpredictable. But, like with Vancouver, they can also make the unlikeliest of stories come to life. 

Kyle discussed the Whitecaps, MLS playoffs and the Canadian men's national neam in the latest edition of Mic'd Up, a recurring feature in which GOAL taps into the perspective of analysts, announcers and other pundits on the state of soccer in the U.S. and abroad. 

Getty Images SportON MLS PLAYOFFS

GOAL: MLS playoffs, what have you made of them so far?

KYLE: Home teams are absolutely dominating. Eight of the games that have already kicked off, all eight of the home sides have won in dominating fashion. Also the big stars stepping up in big moments. You know, we've seen Kevin Denkey, we've seen Lionel Messi, Thomas Muller. But it's been very entertaining. So it's going to be really interesting to see how these best-of-three-games series go.

GOAL: Were you expecting that?

KYLE: It was funny. Something like 68 percent of the teams usually win if they do have that home field advantage in the best-of-three series. And then there was an amazing stat. The top four finishers in the regular season in their conference, one of them goes on to win MLS Cup. The last time that a team outside of that was back in 2010, which is insane to think and insane to see. But this is what makes Major League Soccer so funny. Obviously, we saw Inter Miami get knocked out last year by Atlanta United. So anything can happen. But so far, the home team is looking pretty good.

AdvertisementGettyON MLS CUP FAVORITES

GOAL: Let's talk favorites. Cincinnati look pretty good, but who have you got?

KYLE: I don't think that's a bad shout. I have Vancouver, I have LAFC, and I have Inter Miami. I had an LAFC vs. Inter Miami final, but I could also see a Vancouver vs. Inter Miami final. Genuinely, the only thing with Inter Miami against Nashville – I'm interested to see how Nashville do in the second game, because they just played really scared in the opening match. Which I wasn't really ready for, because I didn't think BJ Callaghan would come up with that sort of game plan against Inter Miami. And Inter Miami's defense actually looked good for once, which was weird. I'm really interested to see how that looks going forward. 

ImagnON VANCOUVER

GOAL: Talk to me about Vancouver: Is there a little bit of national bias there?

KYLE: It's not even national bias. It's a team that I obviously grew up with, throughout their academy. They took a chance on a small town girl from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, so they have so much love in my heart. It's such a great organization. The ownership is amazing. The fan support is amazing. And I think that's the one thing is, they've shown up through the good, the bad and the ugly.

They win the Canadian championship, but like, they've never really had powerhouses like a Thomas Muller within their squad. Tristan Blackman winning defender of the year. Then you have Ryan Gauld, who's been out injured, but he's back fully fit now. Add Brian White, Sebastian Berhalter, and I think it's a team that finally we can say they have a deep squad. And I never thought I would be able to say those words. 

GOAL: With Muller, did you expect him to be this good?

KYLE: He was always going to suit Major League Soccer to perfection, and he's done just that. He's likable, and the fact that he chose to go to Vancouver tells you everything you need to know, because no really global superstars ever choose to go to the Vancouver Whitecaps. There were inklings about Chicago maybe in the mix for him and other teams in Europe, Saudi as well. And so when the news broke, I'm like, no way. 

And just speaking with people on the ground in the city, former national team teammates, friends, colleagues, are like, "this city's transformed." And even they opened up the upper bowl, which they never do for games. You see it with the Vancouver Canucks when they've gone on big runs in the playoffs in the NHL, that it just galvanizes the city. And Canadians, we love supporting our sports teams. You look at the Toronto Blue Jays right now in the World Series. It's really, really cool to see, and I really hope they do well. Because I love the manager, I love the players, and obviously I love the city.

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ImagnON CANADA AND THE WORLD CUP

GOAL: Lastly, on Canada and the World Cup? What do you make of the prep? And what are your expectations for Jesse Marsch's side?

KYLE: It was interesting, because I've been following them around. I spoke to the manager, and he was like, "If we make it out of our group in a certain situation, we'll end up playing our next two games in Vancouver." So they'll have that home field advantage, which would be huge. I think they're well managed. I think this is the best group of Canadians that we've seen on the men's program.

Now that they've got Qatar kind of under their belt, they have the experience of what it means to play in a World Cup, the different competitiveness of what a World Cup brings. And then obviously having Alfonso Davies back fully healthy and fit will be huge. And then you have, you know, Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, the players in that squad that have that European experience and have that World Cup experience. It's going to be brilliant for our Canadian side to see, and I really hope they make it far. 

Tottenham boss Thomas Frank is a massive admirer of one Premier League star, and the Lilywhites can see themselves securing a deal for him next year.

Tottenham's rumoured transfer plans for January amid £100m boost

The Lewis family made a statement of intent last week, with Spurs’ ownership pumping £100 million of new capital into the club via ENIC.

On the back of this, it is reported that technical director Johan Lange, CEO Vinai Venkatesham and the new-look Lilywhites boardroom could be gearing up for an active January, and this £100m windfall is just the first of ENIC’s cash injections.

The club’s rumoured transfer plans suggest a focus on bolstering both their attacking options and defensive depth, with several high-profile names linked to a potential move to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

One of the standout targets is reportedly a proven goalscorer who can provide the clinical finishing Spurs have often lacked.

Strikers like Dušan Vlahović have been frequently mentioned in the media, with the Serbian’s fairly impressive Serie A goal record — having scored at least 14 goals per season since his breakout campaign in 2020/2021 — making him an attractive option to lead Tottenham’s frontline.

Matches

11

Wins

5

Draws

3

Losses

2

Points

18

Points per game

1.91

Doubts currently surround Dominic Solanke’s reliability when it comes to fitness and the long-term future of Richarlison, so a new number nine could well be one to watch.

Meanwhile, defensively, Spurs may look to add depth to cope with the physical demands of the Premier League and compete on four fronts.

The winter window could provide an opportunity to bring in experienced defenders who can cover multiple positions, with their over-reliance on star centre-back duo Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero a real cause for concern.

Ange Postecoglou suffered when either one of the pair were unavailable for large periods last season, and despite bringing in Kevin Danso earlier this year, it is believed that Spurs chiefs are considering another central defender signing in January.

The Lewis family’s fresh backing with new funds provides Spurs with the financial muscle to pursue top targets when the window reopens, and their investments could be seen as crucial steps in Tottenham’s long-term strategy to close the gap on England’s elite.

One of their first orders of business could be the permanent signing of midfielder Joao Palhinha, who’s been a revelation since joining Frank’s side on an initial loan from Bayern Munich in the summer.

Tottenham see themselves triggering Joao Palhinha buy option

The former Fulham star’s imperiousness in the engine room has seriously impressed both on-lookers and Frank, with Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg reporting that the noise surrounding Palhinha’s potential indefinite stay is “positive” right now.

The Portugal international’s loan deal includes an option to buy worth up to £26 million, and Tottenham can genuinely see themselves triggering Palhinha’s clause as things stand.

The 30-year-old has been an outstanding addition for Frank, quickly becoming a vital presence in midfield and forming a solid partnership with Rodrigo Bentancur.

His impact was felt almost immediately, with the ex-Sporting CP star’s combative style and energy providing Spurs with the steel and stability they desperately needed.

One of Palhinha’s standout performances came away to Man City, where he showcased his ability to break up play and disrupt one of the league’s most potent attacks. He got on the scoresheet too, as Spurs secured an impressive three points at Eastlands.

Palhinha’s remarkable overhead kick against Doncaster Rovers in the Carabao Cup was also a highlight-reel moment, but perhaps his most memorable contribution thus far was the dramatic last-minute equaliser against Wolves.

His sensational side-footed finish into the bottom corner earned Frank’s men a vital 1-1 draw and kept their early-season momentum alive, with Spurs fans already hoping to see him stay beyond 25/26.

Hosts’ top four blown away in evening session as Surrey tighten grip

ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay 23-Jun-2025Four late wickets for Surrey saw them take control of the Rothesay County Championship clash at Visit Worcestershire New Road, as Worcestershire ended day two 69 for 4, still trailing by eight-runs.Ben Allison led the way for the hosts, with his 5 for 44 helping restrict Surrey to 291 all-out, Dom Sibley top-scoring with a measured 73.With a lead of 77, Surrey’s seam-bowling attack ensured the day belonged to them with another potent display.Nathan Smith and Matt Fisher collected two wickets apiece, as Worcestershire’s top four were ripped apart in a devastating evening session that put the visitors well in control.Surrey added 40 to their overnight total, but shortly after Ryan Patel had brought up an elegant half-century, Allison made the breakthrough for Worcestershire as he hurried the left-hander with a back of a length delivery that was chipped straight to Jacob Duffy at mid-on.Rory Burns joined Sibley, as the pair continued Surrey’s batting dominance, bringing up their 100 in the 35th over.With Sibley easing his way to a measured 132-ball fifty, Worcestershire’s seamers offered little in the way of opportunities, as lunch arrived with the visitors in total control at 147 for 1.The home side struck twice in quick succession upon resumption, however, when Duffy drew an edge from the bat of Burns for 34, followed up three overs later by the industrious Matthew Waite, who produced a gem of a delivery to see the back of Sam Curran for just 8.Worcestershire had seamer Allison, their standout bowler on the day, to thank for a vital three-wicket burst, that swung the momentum of the afternoon and checked the visitors’ progress.After ending Sibley’s 184-ball knock, he then claimed the wickets of Will Jacks and Mitchell Santner in successive overs, as the home side reduce their opponents to 197 for 6.As a result of Santner’s frustration at his dismissal, Worcestershire were awarded five penalty runs and saw their total rise to 214, with confirmation the New Zealand international had been charged with two separate Level One offences.Dan Lawrence came together with Jordan Clark, as Surrey raced into a lead of 52 when tea was taken. Lawrence continued his fine four-day form, passing fifty early in the evening session, but failed to capitalise as he edged a rising Tom Taylor delivery shortly after the new ball was taken, departing for a well-made 52.Taylor was consistent throughout, claiming more two wickets late on, before Allison returned to complete his five-wicket haul as Surrey were bowled out for 291.With 17 overs left in the day, Smith wasted no time exposing the hosts top-order batting frailties, as he dismissed both Gareth Roderick and Henry Nicholls inside his first two overs.Fisher picked up where he left off in the first innings, nicking two wickets for himself as the top four departed, leaving Worcestershire still short of parity and well behind in the contest.

MLB players get ejected fairly often. It's something one can say they see almost every day. But a player getting tossed after removing his cleat and sock on the field? Now, something you don't see often.

Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve did just that during the ninth inning of Tuesday's 4-3 win over the San Diego Padres. Facing Padres relief pitcher Robert Suarez with two outs in the top of the ninth inning, Altuve grounded a 1-1 sinker to third base. But the Astros star, believing he fouled the ball off of his foot, did not run down the first base line.

Altuve took that time to instead state his case to home plate umpire Brennan Miller, who didn't seem to be buying it, even as Astros manager Joe Espada emerged from the dugout to join the conversation.

Altuve then took matters into his own hands, or in this case, foot.

Altuve removed his cleat and sock and pointed to his foot in an effort to show Miller that the ball had indeed been fouled off his foot. The Astros infielder was promptly ejected.

After the game, Altuve told reporters that the umpires "took it [his foul ball] away from me."

"It was going through my head that it can’t happen," Altuve said. "It’s ninth inning and winning run on second base, and I’m battling against a good pitcher, Suarez, the closer. So, obviously, trying to get a hit and drive in the run and win the game.

"I get a foul ball because it hit my foot and they just took it away from me. I don’t think it can happen. There were four [umpires] on the field. You’ve got to see the change of direction on the ball and just make the right call."

This is the second time this season such an instance has occurred to Altuve.

He was ejected during a June 30 game against the New York Mets after umpires ruled that he was out on a live ball, and not that he had fouled it off of his foot. Altuve was incensed and was almost immediately ejected from the game.

The Astros are back in action against the Padres on Wednesday night at 6:40 p.m. ET.

While Sunderland stole many of the plaudits in the summer for their outrageous transfer activity, with £100m+ splashed out on new recruits, Leeds United were arguably a tad more methodical in their approach when winning themselves some gems from all around Europe.

Daniel Farke and Co. are already thanking their lucky stars that they gambled on acquiring both Anton Stach and Noah Okafor from Hoffenheim and AC Milan, respectively, with a combined four goal contributions already picked up by the promising midfield duo in Premier League action.

In defence, Gabriel Gudmundsson also already looks like a steal in the left-back spot, having only cost £10m to snap up from Lille, while Lucas Perri was agonisingly close to his first clean sheet in his new location up against West Ham United last time out.

But, away from all these names mentioned, Sean Longstaff rightly sticks out as the best bit of business Leeds signed off on over a bumper summer, with the Premier League-experienced 27-year-old very much allowing the Whites to tick so far this season from the middle of the park.

Why Longstaff is one of Leeds' best signings

Already, the £12m summer purchase feels as if he has been in and around Elland Road for some time.

Longstaff has played a part in all nine of Leeds’ league matches so far this season on their return to the daunting top-flight, and while there have been some nerves on display as they navigate the choppy waters of the top division, the Newcastle-born midfielder has cut a cool and composed figure throughout.

Having seen his career at his boyhood Magpies fizzle out, Longstaff clearly knew – from the get-go at his new employers – that he needed to prove himself, and he has certainly done that when looking at the table above.

Already, the brand-new number eight has chipped in with one goal and two assists from a central position on the pitch, but he has offered up far more than just a goal threat, with an average of five duels won per contest enabling Farke’s men to see out some tight contests.

Accumulating five big chances being created, too, has even led to some bold shouts that Longstaff is Leeds’ second coming of Pablo Hernandez, as Farke now potentially attempts to recreate the magic of this shrewd deal in January by landing another classy top-flight veteran when the transfer window swings back open.

Leeds considering another Longstaff-style signing

It has been some turnaround for Longstaff since ditching the home comforts of Tyneside, with zero goals or assists falling into his lap during his final campaign at Eddie Howe’s Toon.

Ross Barkley will hope he can similarly breathe life back into his waning playing days at Elland Road if rumours are to be believed, with a report from The Leeds Press revealing that the West Yorkshire outfit is considering a move for the reserve Aston Villa presence, who even once had a short-term loan stint at Leeds way back in 2013.

Now, he could be returning, again on loan, but this time as a far more experienced option, as Leeds reportedly weigh up a move for an attacking midfielder in the window, and while he has struggled to break into Emery’s first team picture as of late, he is certainly a classy operator on his day.

Indeed, this fiercely struck effort against Leicester City earlier in the year is just one of seven goals Barkley has put away for the Villans, meaning he definitely has a similar eye for a goal to that of Longstaff.

Games played

287

Goals scored

37

Assists

34

More importantly, too, the 31-year-old has also shone before in a team that is attempting to beat the drop in Luton Town – as seen in his weighty five goals and seven assists for the then troubled Hatters – and became a beloved fan favourite, subsequently, with one of his teammates in Andros Townsend at Kenilworth Road even hailing him as “unbelievable” to play alongside.

It could well be, much like Longstaff, that Barkley comes back into his own in West Yorkshire, with the well-travelled attacking midfielder also being dubbed as “exquisite” by his former Everton manager in Roberto Martinez, for his skilful approach on the pitch.

The £60k-per-week star is somewhat fading away at Villa Park, though, with just 30 minutes of action handed to him this season.

Yet, if he relocates to Leeds this coming January, he could end up rebuilding his career before it’s too late, just as Longstaff has already done this season.

Forget Longstaff: £10m star is now Leeds' best signing since Bielsa left

This Leeds United star could now be considered the best signing the Whites have made since Marcelo Bielsa left.

ByKelan Sarson Oct 28, 2025

Former Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen claims that Cristiano Ronaldo "would love" to join Lionel Messi at Inter Miami as two all-time greats approach the end of their record-shattering careers. It has, however, been suggested that Hollywood would be a more likely MLS landing spot for CR7 if opportunities to join teams in Los Angeles materialised.

Ronaldo & Messi have signed new contracts in 2025

Portuguese GOAT Ronaldo is currently plying his trade in the Saudi Pro League for Al-Nassr. He has committed to a contract in the Middle East through to the summer of 2027. He recently told Piers Morgan that retirement is not too far off, with his top target of reaching 1,000 goals now very much within reach.

It has, however, been claimed that Ronaldo could play on beyond the age of 42. He has seen eternal rival Messi pen a new deal in the United States that will keep him on Inter Miami’s books through 2028.

Messi and Ronaldo spent several years on opposing sides of the fierce Clasico divide in La Liga, as they turned out for Barcelona and Real Madrid respectively, but have never graced the same club. Fans around the world would like to see that happen before boots are hung up for the final time.

AdvertisementGetty/GOALWill Messi & Ronaldo ever player together?

Meulensteen, who worked with Ronaldo at Old Trafford, believes such a deal could be agreed. He has, however, told of a possible move to America for a man that would generate considerable excitement in the States: "Can you imagine having Messi and Ronaldo playing in the same team in Miami? It’s a fantastic city. I think he would love to go there.

"On the contrary, it would be amazing to reignite the Messi and Ronaldo rivalry. Why not Los Angeles? I think Cristiano would probably move to LA because he'd be so close to Hollywood. That's probably his next destination.

"MLS has really taken off because they've got a soccer generation. There are kids and adults that are going to the stadiums now who grew up playing soccer, watching soccer. They're not really interested in baseball or American football and basketball.

"I think that’s the battle soccer has won in America, and that I've always advocated, it has come from not fighting those other sports. There's no reason for it. You need to try to find a place next to it. And they have.

"I don’t think Ronaldo would be interested in a move to Brazil. The language is the same but I think he would be drawn to MLS because of the exposure and everything that would come with it. You can't beat Hollywood."

Ronaldo could be a 'megastar' in the United States

Meulensteen is not the first to suggest that Ronaldo and Messi should join forces in Miami – with United legend David Beckham part of the ownership team at Chase Stadium. Ex-Germany international Dietmar Hamann has previously said: "We’ve seen that Cristiano Ronaldo’s powers are coming to an end, he is getting towards the end of his career so a move back to Europe might not be the best idea.

"I think a move to America would make sense but he’d have to do what Lionel Messi has done and impress on the pitch if he is to be a megastar out there. He might not be capable of doing that in Europe anymore but in America they love to be entertained no matter the sport, it could be a great story."

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GettyMessi in Miami or Son in LA? Options for Ronaldo

Ronaldo has also been told by former Red Devils team-mate Louis Saha that he "would’ve scored more goals in MLS than Lionel Messi has" had he decided to chase the American dream.

That could still happen, but the clock is ticking. Inter Miami will be in the market for new recruits as they prepare to bid farewell to Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, while veteran Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez is another edging towards retirement. If Ronaldo were to pass up the chance to head for Florida, then he could link up with ex-Tottenham captain Son Heung-min in California at LAFC.

Spinners Smale and Maqsood strangle chase as visitors fall narrowly short

ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay18-Jul-2025Cordelia Griffith’s bustling knock of 60 from 35 balls laid the foundations for Essex to end their Vitality Blast campaign on a high by seeing off Durham at Chelmsford.The right-hander shared a second-wicket partnership of 66 from 44 with skipper Grace Scrivens (48 from 39) as the home side posted 164 for 3.Durham looked well-placed to chase that down after an opening stand of 78 from 57 between Suzie Bates, who top-scored with 45 from 39 and Emma Marlow – but the momentum shifted after the pair both departed in quick succession.Spinners Abtaha Maqsood and Sophia Smale, who both returned 2 for 26, squeezed the visitors further and their five-match unbeaten sequence came to an end as they fell nine runs short.With Lauren Winfield-Hill returning to Yorkshire at the end of her loan spell, Maddie Penna moved up to open with Scrivens and their partnership of 63 from 52 provided Essex with a strong start after winning the toss.Having pummelled Katherine Fraser to the fence twice in her knock of 25 from 29, the hard-hitting Australian was then given out leg before, but Griffith took up the baton with relish as she lifted Sophia Turner over long-on for six.Griffith’s positive running between the wickets, allied with aggressive strokeplay, propelled her beyond her partner as she raced to a 26-ball half-century but Scrivens narrowly missed out on that landmark, caught reverse paddling Sophia Turner.Durham finished strongly, with legspinner Katie Levick (1 for 24) removing Griffith and she and Sophia Turner gave away just 13 from the last two overs – six of those from the final ball of the innings, dispatched out of the ground by Jo Gardner.Like the home side, Durham progressed through their batting powerplay without shedding any wickets and Bates’ powerful striking kept the scoreboard ticking along as she thumped Kate Coppack for successive boundaries.Marlow (25 from 23) filled a capable supporting role until her miscued drive off Smale sailed into the hands of extra cover – and Durham lost their other set batter in the next over when Bates holed out off Maqsood.The legspinner also accounted for Hollie Armitage, bowled attempting a reverse sweep, but former Essex player Mady Villiers (28 from 22) and Bess Heath (24 from 18) kept the visitors in contention, adding a quickfire 40.However, the task of scoring 17 from the final over proved beyond Durham, who lost two wickets in three balls to stumpings by Amara Carr as Penna closed the game out.