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Erling Haaland showed off his eccentric new fashion sense on Instagram as he posed donning a flat cap and holding a bag worth nearly £10,000. Haaland is currently enjoying a brief holiday in Spain after being released from the Norway squad in the middle of the international window. The goal machine scored a hat-trick against Israel in a World Cup qualifying game last week, but will not feature in an upcoming friendly.

• Norway close to World Cup spot after Haaland heroics

  After starring with a stunning hat-trick in Norway's 5-0 thumping of Israel in a World Cup qualifying game last week, Haaland and four other first team stars were released from the national team midway through the international break. The win over Israel helped Norway maintain their 100 per cent record in the qualifiers as they inched closer to securing a World Cup slot for next summer. 

  On releasing the five players, Norway's FA said: "Sebastian Sebulonsen is in the Norwegian national team squad, he and Sverre Nypan are participating in today's training. Players with particularly tight match schedules are returning home: Alexander Sorloth, Julian Ryerson, Erling Braut Haaland and Fredrik Bjorkan. Felix Horn Myhre is leaving the squad due to a sore ankle."

  Norway boss Stale Solbakken added: "Everyone who has played a lot of Champions League was told go home."

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• Haaland enjoying holiday in Spain

  After being released from the Norway squad, Haaland did not return to Manchester immediately, but instead jetted off to Marbella in Spain on a private plane for a short holiday trip on Sunday, as reported by the Norwegian media. On Tuesday, Haaland shared a photograph on Instagram of himself from his holiday as he showed an eccentric new fashion sense. In the Instagram post, Haaland can be seen wearing green slacks and a matching vest, a checked shirt, a tie and a flat cap, while carrying a luxurious designer Hermes Hac 40 bag, which reportedly costs £10,000. In the caption, the City star wrote: "Camos".

  Haaland's former team-mates Jude Bellingham and Jack Grealish reacted to his post in the comment section. The Madrid star shared three laughing emojis and a clap, while Grealish wrote: "Best guy in the world" preceded by four laughing emojis. 

• Striker's scintilating form for club and country

  In the 2025-26 campaign so far, Haaland has exhibited terrific form for club and country. He has taken on added responsibility with Norway during their latest camp, with skipper Martin Odegaard missing out through injury. The City star has been given the chance to become an on-field leader. 

  He embraced that role when netting a hat-trick against Israel, with another match ball being secured despite missing a twice-taken penalty. He registered five efforts in an 11-1 mauling of Moldova back in September and has reached 21 goals for the season through 12 appearances for club and country.

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  Hectic schedule for Haaland and Man City

  The holiday in Marbella was required for Haaland, who needs to refuel before heading back to England later this week. City have a hectic schedule over the next few weeks as Pep Guardiola's team will play seven matches between October 18 and November 9. They resume action with a key Premier League clash against Everton this Saturday before they jet off to Spain to face Villarreal in the Champions next week. Their final game in this stretch and before the November international break is against the reigning English champions Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium.

Chelsea’s summer transfer window once again made headlines, combining record spending with significant sales.

After finishing fourth in the Premier League last season, winning the Europa Conference League, and lifting the Club World Cup by beating PSG 3-0 in the summer final, the Blues are back in the Champions League for the first time since 2023.

The club continued to invest heavily, bringing in João Pedro, Jamie Gittens, Alejandro Garnacho, Jorrel Hato, and Liam Delap, among others, for huge fees.

At the same time, Chelsea balanced the books by offloading players such as Christopher Nkunku, João Félix, and notably, Noni Madueke.

Under Enzo Maresca, Chelsea’s youthful squad has shown promise but also inconsistency.

Two wins against Fulham and West Ham have been tempered by draws with Crystal Palace and Brentford, a reflection of a side still searching for rhythm.

Their return to the Champions League offered a reality check about the demands of competing at Europe’s highest level. While Madueke thrived for Arsenal, a Blues winger struggled.

Noni Madueke: From Chelsea to Arsenal

Madueke was once seen as a cornerstone of Chelsea’s rebuild.

The 23-year-old right-winger scored 20 goals and registered nine assists in 92 appearances during his time at Stamford Bridge.

Explosive when on form, he could change games with pace, dribbling, and direct running.

However, his Chelsea career was defined as much by frustration as by highlights.

The club decided to sell him to Arsenal for £52m this summer, a transfer that drew an immediate backlash from Gunners supporters.

More than 5,000 fans signed a petition under the hashtag #NoToMadueke, questioning the move.

Arsenal pressed ahead regardless, handing Madueke a full 90 minutes on his Champions League debut against Athletic Bilbao on Tuesday.

Statistically, Madueke has always been a player who offers high involvement in forward play.

Last season, he averaged 6.81 progressive carries per 90 minutes, a measure of how often he drives the ball upfield.

He also attempted a high volume of shots, posting 1.33 shots on target per 90 minutes with an accuracy rate of 37.5%.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

These numbers highlight both his intent and his end product – a winger eager to make things happen, though not always efficient. One Chelsea winger is like that now.

Chelsea's new Noni Madueke

Chelsea’s 3-1 loss to Bayern Munich in their Champions League opener showed just how raw this youthful team remains.

Defensive errors – including Trevoh Chalobah’s own goal after Michael Olise’s cross and a clumsy Moises Caicedo foul that gifted Harry Kane a penalty – set the tone for a tough night.

In attack, Pedro Neto was handed the role of left-winger in Maresca’s 4-2-3-1.

It proved a difficult evening. Neto was replaced in the 68th minute after a performance that earned him a 5.8 match rating.

His individual numbers reflected the struggle:

Neto’s inconsistency mirrored some of the very frustrations Chelsea fans once voiced about Madueke.

He can explode with pace and creativity, but also drift out of games, as he did in Munich.

Across last season, Neto managed 35 matches with ten goal involvements – identical to Madueke’s tally in 32 appearances.

While Neto averaged fewer progressive carries (5.00 per 90) and shots on target (0.67 per 90 at a 28.8% accuracy), he outperformed Madueke in progressive passing distance, covering an average of 96 metres per 90 minutes compared to Madueke’s 82.0.

The data illustrate why Chelsea’s decision to sell Madueke and entrust Neto with a similar role has sparked debate.

Both wingers bring pace and unpredictability, both contribute to chance creation, and both are capable of flashes of brilliance. But the numbers confirm their limitations as well.

Madueke’s higher output in progressive carries and shots suggests a winger more inclined to take risks and force opportunities.

Neto, on the other hand, contributes more in ball progression through passing, reflected in his superior progressive passing distance.

Each offers something slightly different, yet neither has consistently delivered match-winning influence.

When comparing shot creation, the two players are virtually inseparable. Madueke averaged 3.50 shot-creating actions per 90, while Neto produced 3.57.

This parity shows that both are involved in their teams’ attacking buildup, even if their execution varies.

Madueke’s numbers underline why Arsenal were willing to pay a premium despite fan scepticism.

His willingness to carry the ball forward and threaten goalkeepers with regular attempts makes him a high-upside option.

Neto’s profile fits Chelsea’s philosophy under Maresca – linking play, stretching the pitch, and helping transition through midfield – but his display against Bayern revealed how much more is needed to reach Champions League standard.

For Chelsea, the swap of Madueke for Neto feels less like a fresh direction and more like a gamble on a winger with a strikingly similar profile: exciting, unpredictable, and still searching for the consistency required to define matches at the highest level.

Maresca must drop Chelsea dud who was as bad as Chalobah vs Bayern

Chelsea lost to Bayern Munich in their first Champions League game of the season.

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By
Jack Salveson Holmes

Sep 18, 2025

Cameras picked up Ted Lasso actor Jason Sudeikis in attendance at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night as Arsenal hosted Atletico Madrid in the Champions League. The American entertainer is known to be a huge sports fan and his presence at the game, given his alter ego's place within modern football culture, was an amusing side-note for fans of the world famous show.

• Ted Lasso at the Emirates again!

  Sudeikis was there as himself, rather than some kind of Ted Lasso cameo, dressed in a jacket and tie, flat cap and dark glasses. Richmond gear was nowhere to be seen. It's not the first time this season that he's been seen at an Arsenal game, attending August's season opener against Nottingham Forest, and is increasingly a known fan of Mikel Arteta's side. Still, Brendan Hunt, known for playing Lasso's assistant, Coach Beard, was alongside him.

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  Arsenal's good luck charm

  Atletico Madrid have forged a reputation in the decade-plus that Diego Simeone has been at the helm as being one of Europe's toughest teams to beat. So for Arsenal to put four goals past them and prompt a full-on collapse – just 13 minutes elapsed betwen Gabriel putting the Gunners ahead and Viktor Gyokeres making it 4-0 – was certainly worthy of a few raised eyebrows.

• Not a fan before Ted Lasso series began

  Ted Lasso was born when Sudeikis starred as the character in a series of TV commercials advertising NBC's coverage of the Premier League in 2013, ironically depicted as the new Tottenham Hotspur head coach. But it wasn't until 2019 that a full series was commissioned, airing in 2020.

  Sudeikis wasn't a soccer fan before taking on the role, but it has introduced him to the world's most popular sport. "I like it, yeah," he remarked in 2024. "I don't understand everything, but after the show, I started to enjoy it even further."

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  Solskjaer also attends

  Sudeikis wasn't the only famous face spotted among the crowd. Ex-Manchester United boss and Old Trafford legend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was also seen watching on. The Norwegian was recently dismissed by Besiktas following successive Europa League and Conference League qualifying eliminations, only eight months after taking the job in Istanbul. It was Solskjaer's first role since leaving United in 2021.

Everton have a new-found level of financial freedom under the Friedkin Group and could now look to beat rivals Liverpool to the signature of a talented winger.

Jack Grealish on David Moyes' impact at Everton

After a summer of exciting arrivals, David Moyes came away with one of the signings of the window in Jack Grealish, who has recently spoken openly about his career and recent form since pitching up at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Thanking the Scot for his belief in his abilities, the Three Lions man stated via Sky Sports: “People were saying to me, ‘what are you doing going to Everton’, and I was like, ‘what do you mean?’. It’s a massive club. I’m at my best when I feel loved. You know I’m quite vulnerable off the pitch and I wanted to go somewhere to just feel the love again.

“It’s down to him (Moyes) for giving me that platform to go and play the way I’ve been playing. I don’t mean this in an arrogant way but I do like it when managers say, ‘you’re the footballer, go and do what you want to do. I’d rather someone just be like, ‘when you get the ball Jack, just go and play.’ That’s what he says to me.”

Reviving attacking talent from the Premier League appears to have become a specialty for Moyes. Reports suggest Everton could look to sign Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus in January, which could be another trump card as they build a formidable forward line.

Moyes must ruthlessly drop Beto to unleash Everton's “serious” talent

Everton should start French youth star over Beto to boost Premier League attack.

By
Will Miller

Sep 27, 2025

Plenty of optimism surrounds the direction of travel Everton are heading, and they could now be set to take things up a level after sending scouts to watch an exciting target.

Everton scouts watch Konstantinos Karetsas at Ibrox

According to Alan Nixon on Patreon, relayed by Everton News, Everton sent scouts to watch Genk winger Konstantinos Karetsas against Rangers, albeit he only came on as a late substitute in a 1-0 victory for the visitors.

The Greek international is expected to depart Belgium next year and could be available at around £20 million, though Liverpool, Sunderland, Newcastle United and Bournemouth are all fighting to secure his services.

Labelled a “superstar in the making” by Ben Mattinson, Karetsas has registered three goals and six assists for Genk in 53 appearances and is viewed as a rising star across Europe, given he is only 17 years of age.

His performance for Greece against Scotland back in March turned heads after the youngster curled in a stunning strike to give his side an aggregate lead over Moyes’ country in the UEFA Nations League.

Tapping into the stars of the future is something that Everton will be willing to work on as they build a conveyor belt of exciting players who can play their part under new ownership, and beating Liverpool to his signature would send a message that the Toffees are to be revered.

Real Madrid are among the teams looking at Moises Caicedo, with the midfielder's recent change of agents adding intrigue to his future at Chelsea. However, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has insisted that the Blues remain calm and fully in control of the situation, with the club planning to reward their star midfielder with an improved contract in the coming months.

• Caicedo's form alerts Europe's elite

  Caicedo’s form has made him one of Europe’s most sought-after midfielders, and Real Madrid are the latest club to be monitoring his situation closely. The Ecuadorian has enjoyed an outstanding start to the new Premier League season, scoring three goals in eight games and cementing his reputation as one of the best in his position. Reports from Spain claim Los Blancos are weighing their options for the summer, viewing Caicedo as a potential long-term successor to the already departed veterans, Luka Modric and Toni Kroos.

  However, Chelsea are said to be relaxed despite the growing speculation, largely due to Caicedo’s long-term contract that runs until 2031, with the option of a further year. The Blues believe they are in full control of his future having invested a British-record £115 million ($154m) to bring him from Brighton in 2023. While Madrid’s interest has not yet escalated into a formal approach, Chelsea are expected to act swiftly to reinforce their position by discussing improved personal terms with the player.

  Caicedo’s recent decision to part ways with his long-time representative Manuel Sierra and move under the management of Chris Farnell of IPS Law sparked fresh speculation. Yet those close to the situation insist the move was made to streamline his business affairs, not to engineer a transfer away from Stamford Bridge. Sources within Chelsea maintain that the midfielder remains fully focused on his football and is happy at the club.

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  Romano reveals truth behind Caicedo's future

  Romano moved to clarify the situation surrounding Caicedo’s future, reassuring Chelsea fans that the Ecuadorian remains committed to the club’s long-term project. "Moises Caicedo is fully focused on Chelsea," Romano said on his YouTube channel. "I maintain what I said in the summer: Chelsea wants to discuss a new contract with him. He’s already on a big salary, but his face remains a crucial part of the project. So I see Chelsea maintaining these conversations with Moises and his new representatives, but for sure the focus is on a new deal for him at Chelsea.

  Romano added: "Moises Caicedo didn't change his agency because he wanted to prepare a move, so Chelsea fans can at the moment be very relaxed. We always have rumours about every club, Real Madrid interested…who is not interested in Moises Caicedo?"

  Romano’s comments align with Chelsea’s internal stance that there is no cause for alarm despite recent rumours linking Caicedo with a move away. The Ecuadorian’s performances under Enzo Maresca have been exemplary, and the intention is to reward that progress with enhanced terms rather than an extension of his deal. The 23-year-old is already one of the club’s highest earners, but the new structure could include improved bonuses and performance incentives.

  Chelsea’s approach mirrors the one they recently adopted with Cole Palmer, who was handed a lucrative upgrade after his impressive rise in form. The club views these contract renewals not as reactive measures to external interest, but as part of a broader strategy to lock down key talents for the long term.

• £115m midfielder goes from strength to strength

  Caicedo’s evolution into Chelsea’s midfield heartbeat has been remarkable since overcoming early struggles in his debut season. Now one of the Premier League’s most complete midfielders, his tactical awareness, defensive solidity, and technical precision have drawn comparisons with N’Golo Kante at his peak. His ability to break up play and transition the ball forward with pace and purpose has been a cornerstone of Maresca’s system.

  Under the Italian coach, Caicedo has added a new dimension to his game – contributing more directly in attack, including a thunderous long-range strike against Liverpool before the international break. His partnership with Enzo Fernandez continues to flourish, while Romeo Lavia’s return to fitness provides added balance and rotation options. Gary Neville recently described him as "the best midfielder in the Premier League," a view that underlines his rising stature among pundits and peers alike.

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  What the future holds for Caicedo

  Chelsea’s focus now turns to securing Caicedo’s long-term happiness with a fresh contract that reflects his rising importance in the squad. Talks between the club and his new representatives are expected to begin soon, with both sides confident of reaching an agreement before the turn of the year. The proposed deal would keep him among the Premier League’s best-paid midfielders and reaffirm Chelsea’s commitment to building around him.

  For Real Madrid, their interest remains at a preliminary stage, with no negotiations planned for the immediate future. While Florentino Perez’s admiration for Caicedo is well-documented, Chelsea’s stance and financial strength make a move unlikely anytime soon.

Leeds United endured a frustrating return after the international break, though their defeat to Burnley was marred by an alleged incident involving Hannibal Mejbri.

Leeds lose out against Burnley at Turf Moor

Clashes between newly-promoted sides tend to be combative in nature, and that was certainly the case as Scott Parker’s Clarets saw off the challenge laid before them by Daniel Farke to take all three points at Turf Moor.

Brenden Aaronsen was one of several underperformers on the day for the Whites in what became a forgettable occasion for the visitors despite their vastly superior chances, leaving them three points above the Premier League relegation zone with eight matches played.

After the match, Farke made it clear that his side won the statistical battle on the day and can feel hard done by that they didn’t take something in Lancashire, though conceded that goals win games when all is said and done.

He said: “You can’t have better statistics than we did today in an away game in the Premier League. When Liverpool, Arsenal, Man City travel here even they won’t have better statistics. We won each and every statistic but in football it is also just about goals. They were more effective than us today.”

Nevertheless, Burnley midfielder Hannibal was at the centre of an alleged spitting incident after a complaint was lodged from a supporter in the Leeds United section.

Leeds eyeing fresh 2026 move to sign "perfect" Championship star for Farke

They could finally get their man…

By
Tom Cunningham

Oct 18, 2025

BBC reporter Adam Pope said on X: “Leeds United are aware of an allegation of spitting by a Burnley player believed to be Hannibal. The authorities are investigating after a complaint was made from a supporter in the Leeds United section at Turf Moor.”

With that in mind and an investigation now launched, further developments have come to light regarding the potential consequences of yesterday’s controversy if he is to be cited.

Hannibal Mejbri could be suspended if found guilty

Speaking to MOT Leeds News, former referee Keith Hackett has said Hannibal could be banned for a minimum of three matches if the allegation of spitting relating is found to be true after the investigation takes place.

Ultimately, nobody wants to see this sort of incident emerge in the aftermath of any football match. For now, it will be down to the authorities to conclude exactly what happened and to dish out the appropriate punishment.

Now, Leeds will take some time to prepare for the visit of West Ham United next Friday, offering another major opportunity to stray further away from the relegation zone after a mixed start to the campaign.

Farke’s side don’t have any problems when it comes to chance creation, but the German coach will hope his side can tighten up at the back before the Hammers make their way to Elland Road.

Bryan Mbeumo reportedly turned down four clubs in order to join Manchester United in the summer. The in-form Cameroon international has made a blistering start to life at Old Trafford following his £70 million (€79m/$92m) summer move from Brentford, playing a significant role in what has been a dramatic turnaround in fortunes for Ruben Amorim's side.

• Report claims Mbeumo had plenty of interest after 2024-25 season

  In a new report from Mbeumo supposedly had plenty of suitors following the 2024-25 Premier League campaign. The 26-year-old recorded 20 goals and seven assists to help Brentford finish 10th under Thomas Frank last term. The Dane was appointed as Tottenham’s new head coach in June, succeeding Ange Postecoglou following the Australian's dismissal after the club finished 17th in the same season.

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  Mbeumo only had eyes for Man Utd after several meetings with Amorim

  And the report claims that Tottenham were one of the four clubs who were keen on signing Mbeumo, with Spurs boss Frank hoping to reunite with his former charge in north London. The report says Spurs were even willing to offer more money than United for Mbeumo, who is also believed to have attracted interest from Arsenal, Liverpool and Newcastle.

  However, the report concludes by claiming Mbeumo told United he wanted to join them on 1 June, having been "sold" on Amorim’s vision for the club through several Zoom meetings. Mbeumo had a painful wait until the move was officially completed on 21 July, signing a five-year contract with the club.

  Upon joining United, Mbeumo said: "As soon as I knew there was a chance to join Manchester United, I had to take the opportunity to sign for the club of my dreams; the team whose shirt I wore growing up.

  "My mentality is to always be better than I was yesterday. I know that I have the spirit and character to reach another level here, learning from Ruben Amorim and playing alongside world-class players.

  "Everybody told me about the environment that is being created here and how exciting the plans are for the future. This is a massive club, with an incredible stadium and amazing fans, we are all really determined to challenge for the biggest trophies."

• Cameroon international has made excellent start at Old Trafford

  Mbeumo has since gone on to make an incredible start to his United career, registering four goals and one assist in nine league matches. His efforts in the final third have coincided with United’s recent upturn in form, with Amorim’s side having won their last three games on the spin. 

  Following a 2-0 victory over Sunderland, Mbeumo scored the opener as United defeated rivals Liverpool 2-1 on 19 October, in what was the club’s first win at Anfield since 2016. Mbeumo built on his heroics on Merseyside by bagging a brace in the 4-2 home triumph over Brighton last Saturday, with United currently sitting sixth in the league table.

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  Amorim lavished praise on Mbeumo after Brighton heroics

  After Mbeumo inspired United to victory against Brighton, manager Amorim said after the game: "He’s [Mbeumo] a working machine. He’s so good in transitions. He’s improving when we are organising the final third. The connection with Amad, it’s really hard to beat these two guys because they change position, they are really fast, they are good in one against one. 

  "My role was, as a manager, to explain what I want from him. But it was more the club. And you guys. We can struggle a lot, but it’s Manchester United. When Manchester United is there, and when we feel that this player wants to come here, no matter what, no matter what the position, no matter if it's Champions League or not, we also give everything to bring these kind of guys, and that was the case."

The Los Angeles Dodgers and those in attendance at loanDepot Park on Thursday night were able to properly celebrate Shohei Ohtani notching an important piece of MLB history—all thanks to veteran umpire Dan Iassonga.

Ohtani, of course, became the first player in MLB history to tally at least 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season when he blasted his second of three dingers in the seventh inning of the Dodgers' 20–4 win over the Miami Marlins.

As he crossed home plate, crew chief Iassonga dusted off home plate to give Ohtani a few extra moments to celebrate. He also killed some time by chatting with the Marlins' bat boy, and later waved off a pitch clock violation so the Dodgers could have enough time to congratulate their teammate.

Iassonga very well could have called an automatic strike on the next batter, outfielder Kevin Kiermaier, to keep the game moving, but he recognized the situation and let Ohtani have his moment.

Nice job, blue.

Iassonga is in his 22nd year as an MLB umpire. He's been a full-time umpire in the big leagues since 2004 and has worked three World Series over his career in 2012, '17 and '22. And now, the 55-year-old can say he was on the field for one of the biggest baseball milestones of the 21st century.

Arsenal have been dealt a fitness setback ahead of their Champions League clash against Slavia Prague as Viktor Gyokeres missed training following his early withdrawal against Burnley. The £55m striker, who scored in that game before coming off at half-time, was nowhere to be seen as Mikel Arteta’s side prepared for Tuesday’s trip to the Fortuna Arena.

• Gyokeres misses Arsenal training after Burnley knock

  Arsenal’s preparations for their Champions League encounter with Slavia Praha suffered a blow as Gyokeres missed Monday’s training session at London Colney, as per Charles Watts. The Swedish striker, who opened the scoring for the Gunners with a composed finish in the 2-0 win at Burnley, was taken off at half-time after feeling discomfort in his leg. Arteta later confirmed that the forward had picked up a 'muscular niggle' and would undergo further assessment to determine the extent of the issue.

  Speaking after the Burnley win, Arteta praised Gyokeres’ performance, saying: “I think that was one of the best games he has played. His performance was exceptional – his high press, his running in behind, the way he linked play, everything. It’s a shame that he felt something. We had to take him off because of a niggle, so we’ll have to wait and see.” With Gyokeres absent from training and Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus also sidelined, Arsenal’s attacking options are suddenly looking thin.

  The absence of Gyokeres leaves Arteta facing a potential selection dilemma for the trip to Prague. Makeshift forward Mikel Merino, who replaced the Swede at Turf Moor, may again be asked to lead the line, while teenage striker Andre Harriman-Annous could be drafted into the squad. Kepa Arrizabalaga also missed training for undisclosed reasons, though Martin Zubimendi did participate but is suspended for the match after picking up three bookings in the group stage already.

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  New signing finally looking settled in Arsenal's frontline

  Gyokeres’ potential injury comes at an unwelcome time for Arsenal, who are in blistering form across all competitions. Saturday’s victory at Burnley marked their ninth consecutive win and extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table to six points. Their defensive record has been impeccable, while in attack, Gyokeres had begun to find rhythm after a somewhat cautious start to life in England.

  The 25-year-old’s integration into Arteta’s system has been one of Arsenal’s key storylines this season. Signed from Sporting CP for an initial £55 million in July, Gyokeres arrived with enormous expectations after scoring 97 goals in 102 appearances in Portugal. His physical presence and work rate have quickly made him a valuable addition to Arsenal’s attack, offering a more traditional focal point compared to the frontlines of previous seasons.

• How Gyokeres has played key role in Arsenal's strong start

  Before his setback, Gyokeres had enjoyed a steady adaptation to the demands of the Premier League and Champions League. Across 14 appearances in all competitions this season, he has scored six goals and logged over 1,000 minutes. His contribution has not only come in scoring but also in his ability to stretch defences, creating space for Arsenal’s midfielders to operate effectively.

  Gyokeres ranks among the league’s most active strikers in terms of touches inside the penalty area, with 38 offensive actions in the box so far this season. His pressing and off-ball movement have drawn praise from Arteta, who believes the Swede’s intelligence in positioning has been key to Arsenal’s improved attacking patterns. “He gets us from defensive situations into transitions very quickly,” Arteta noted recently. “He gives us presence and aggression that changes how teams defend against us.”

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  Gyokeres likely to miss Arsenal's UCL clash with Slavia Praha

  Arsenal’s medical staff will now assess Gyokeres’ condition ahead of a demanding stretch of fixtures. With Martinelli, Havertz, and Jesus all sidelined, the Gunners’ depth in attack is being tested. The timing is particularly difficult, with a trip to Sunderland in the Premier League coming just four days after the Champions League fixture, followed by a high-stakes north London derby against Tottenham after the international break.

  Arsenal will travel to Prague without Gyokeres, barring a late surprise, and Arteta will likely be forced into tactical reshuffling for the midweek fixture. Arsenal will be favourites to maintain their perfect Champions League record this season.

  Post-match, all eyes will be on Arteta’s fitness update regarding Gyokeres, with fans anxious about his availability for domestic fixtures. A short-term absence would be manageable given Arsenal’s current momentum, but a longer spell on the sidelines could affect their fluency in attack.

Nottingham Forest are believed to be making contingency plans if they decide to sack manager Ange Postecoglou, which is still rumoured to be a possibility as Evangelos Marinakis weighs up his next move.

Ange Postecoglou's disastrous start at Nottingham Forest

Postecoglou’s tenure at Forest has been marked by a disastrous start, casting a shadow over the club’s hopes for progress this season.

Since taking the reins after Nuno Espírito Santo’s unceremonious departure, Postecoglou has struggled to find form, becoming the first permanent Forest manager in a century to fail to win any of his first six matches.

His attempts to implement a new playing philosophy — characterized by high-intensity pressing and open attacking football — have yet to yield any results, leaving the squad visibly unsettled and fans frustrated.

Chants of ‘you’re getting sacked in the morning’ rang around the City Ground during Forest’s shock 3-2 defeat to Danish minnows FC Midtjylland in the Europa League, and discontent from supporters will only be piling pressure on Marinakis after his controversial decision to sack Nuno.

Reports suggest that Marinakis is furious with Forest’s current state behind-the-scenes and holds personal accountability for his role (TEAMtalk), and if results don’t improve soon, the Greek billionaire isn’t afraid to be ruthless and make another immediate managerial change (Sky Sports).

Should Forest decide to part ways with Postecoglou, several candidates have emerged as potential replacements.

Fulham’s Marco Silva is considered a leading contender, especially given his relationship with Marinakis following the pair’s time at Olympiacos together (talkSPORT).

Silva’s contract situation and success on a shoe-string budget at Craven Cottage makes him an attractive long-term target, while other names linked include Rafa Benitez and Oliver Glasner, both of whom bring proven experience managing in the Premier League.

Benitez was spotted close to Marinakis during a recent Olympiacos clash against Arsenal in the Champions League, whilst Glasner is reportedly emerging as a “prime candidate” for the Forest job if Postecoglou does leave.

Marco Silva expected to leave Fulham amid Nottingham Forest interest

Sharing an update on the prospect of Silva’s potential appointment, talkSPORT’s Alex Crook has urged Tricky Trees supporters to “keep an eye” on the Portuguese with his deal — said to include an £8 million release clause — due to expire in 2026.

Crook also says that he expects Silva to depart Fulham at the end of his contract amid Forest’s interest, but also states it’ll be tricky to convince the tactician to swap jobs immediately.

The 48-year-old, who guided Fulham to Premier League promotion from the Championship, has since kept them afloat with solid mid-table finishes, and they briefly contended for Europe last season — despite underspending in comparison to their top flight rivals.

Ex-Hull City striker Evandro, who worked with Silva at the MKM Stadium, has branded Silva a “master” tactician.