Category Uncategorized

With nine games of the Premier League season now played, it’s difficult to predict just how Manchester City will do this year.

On the one hand, Erling Haaland remains a lean, mean goalscoring machine and could end up firing them to glory.

Yet, on the other hand, the rest of the attack are struggling to set up, and it’s starting to look like, for all his incredible ability, Bernardo Silva is starting to wind down somewhat.

Fortunately, Man City already have a player who could be the perfect long-term heir, and no, it’s not Phil Foden – it’s someone out on loan.

Man City's stars out on loan

As with most clubs of their size, Man City have several players out on loan this season, some who are very promising indeed, and some who are less so.

Chalkboard

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

Expand Collapse

For example, while Jack Grealish is an incredible player who helped the club win the treble, it seems incredibly unlikely that he will return from his spell with Everton, even if he’s already chalked up four assists and a goal in ten games.

Sverre Nypan, on the other hand, is someone that the club has very high hopes for, and while he’s not lit the world alight at Middlesbrough, he’s one to watch.

Nypan’s Rosenborg record

Appearances

70

Starts

55

Goals

14

Assists

11

All Stats via Transfermarkt

For example, despite still only being 18 years old, the Trondheim-born gem, whom respected analyst Ben Mattinson has described as an “all-phase midfielder with the ability to control the pace of the game,” was able to rack up a tally of 14 goals and 11 assists in 70 games for Rosenborg before his move in the summer.

Another promising City youngster out on loan this season is Vitor Reis.

The Brazilian centre-back joined the Citizens in January, but was then sent to Girona in the summer to play more games and further develop, so he can hopefully compete for first-team minutes at the Etihad next season.

Described as a defensive “monster” by members of the Brazilian media, it might take some time before fans see his true potential, but it certainly feels like he’s going to be a star.

With that said, there is another unreal City talent out on loan this season, someone who could beat out Foden to become Bernardo’s long-term heir.

Man City's Bernardo's heir

Now, there are a few other City players out on loan this season, but when it comes to a seriously exciting prospect, there is just one more: Claudio Echeverri.

The Citizens paid River Plate around £12.5m to sign the young Argentine last January, and due to him being just 18 at the time, he spent the rest of the year in his home country.

In his final year with River Plate, the “future superstar,” as dubbed by Mattinson, managed to rack up an impressive tally of four goals and six assists.

Upon his arrival in Manchester towards the end of last season, the 19-year-old made just three appearances for Pep Guardiola’s side, totalling 64 minutes, but did open his account against Al-Ain in the Club World Cup.

With it clear that he’s not quite ready to play regular first-team minutes in a title-chasing side, it was decided that the Resistencia-born maestro would be sent to Bayer Leverkusen on loan this season, where he has now made six appearances and already provided an assist.

With all that said, what’s most exciting is that, according to Mattinson, the youngster is currently looking like he could be the “ideal successor to Bernardo.”

One of the reasons for this is that, while he likes to play in attacking midfield, he has already spent some time out wide, and while his numbers aren’t exceptional, it’s still very impressive that he’s been able to impact senior games at such a young age.

Finally, like the Portuguese international, the Argentine’s “awareness of space and how to create is exceptional”, and he’s more than capable of making “off the ball runs” and “carrying the ball into space,” per Mattinson.

Ultimately, while it is still very early in his career, it looks like City have a future superstar in Echeverri, and someone who could eventually replace Bernardo.

Related Man City have "Rashford-like" 17-year-old star who can surpass Savinho

Manchester City have an unbelievable 17-year-old starlet who could soon surpass Savinho.

Posts ByKelan Sarson Oct 29, 2025

Former Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy played a major role in stopping one ex-Spurs star from sealing what was a dream switch to Chelsea, with the player making a candid admission.

Tottenham post-Daniel Levy as problems remain at N17

It’s been three months since the Lewis family decided to force Levy into resigning as Lilywhites chairman, following a topsy-turvy 25-year stint in the role.

Levy was barely ever away from the headlines and attracted plenty of criticism, particularly towards the end of his tenure, when fans turned out in droves to protest both his and ENIC’s stewardship of the club.

His exit marked the end of the longest chairmanship in Premier League history, a tenure defined by extraordinary infrastructure development yet marred by agonising near-misses.

His business acumen transformed Tottenham into a financial powerhouse, culminating in the £1.2 billion Tottenham Hotspur Stadium which opened in 2019 and revolutionised the club’s commercial capabilities.

World Football’s highest revenue-generating clubs — 2025	Value
Real Madrid	£1.2 billion
Man City	£727 million
PSG	£700 million
Man United	£668 million
Bayern Munich	£664 million
FC Barcelona	£659.5 million
Arsenal	£621.5 million
Liverpool	£620 million
Tottenham Hotspur	£533 million
Chelsea	£474 million
via Deloitte Money League

Under his stewardship, Spurs competed in Europe over in 18 of the past 20 seasons, establishing themselves among England’s elite despite chronic underinvestment in recruitment compared to their rivals.

The club’s net spend during Mauricio Pochettino’s first four years totalled just £29 million, while Tottenham infamously became the first Premier League side to complete an entire summer window without a single signing in 2018.

That cautious transfer approach became Levy’s defining characteristic, and it drew fierce criticism, alongside their barren trophy haul.

Tottenham reached the Champions League final under Pochettino in 2019, only to dismiss the Argentine four months later despite Spurs’ constant transfer budget restrictions.

Levy’s final season proved very turbulent, with Ange Postecoglou sacked shortly after delivering Europa League glory. Fans had grown tired of the constant managerial churn without meaningful silverware, despite Levy’s long list of appointments including serial winners José Mourinho and Antonio Conte.

Tottenham could prove 'irresistible' to manager who Levy was urged to hire before Frank

He’s on the verge of leaving his current club.

1

By
Emilio Galantini

Dec 2, 2025

Levy’s departure triggered a major restructuring, with former Arsenal CEO Vinai Venkatesham arriving and Thomas Frank replacing Postecoglou.

Peter Charrington assumed the newly-created non-executive chairman role to jump into Levy’s stead, though in a far less involved capacity, with co-sporting directors Fabio Paratici and Johan Lange making up the new leadership team.

Levy, despite his unpopularity among much of the fanbase, undoubtedly left a mark on Spurs which will be remembered for decades to come.

Now, ex-Tottenham favourite Luka Modrić has revealed how the former chairman stopped him from joining London rivals Chelsea.

Luka Modrić reveals Daniel Levy blocked Tottenham transfer to Chelsea

Speaking on the Neuspjeh prvaka show, via ESPN, the now-AC Milan midfielder says that he was eager to join the west Londoners, but Levy told him there was ‘no chance’ that Modric would be allowed to go.

The Croatia legend, who went to enjoy a fantastic season at Tottenham right afterwards, then admitted that it eventually worked out for the best.

Modric is now the most decorated player in his country’s history after a glittering career at Real, with Levy eventually green-lighting his exit to the Bernabeu for £30 million in 2012.

The 40-year-old, who is incredibly still playing at an elite level, made over 150 appearances for Spurs, scoring 17 goals, and comes as one of the best signings of Levy’s tenure for just £16.5 million from Dinamo Zagreb.

In an ever more globalised game, and one obsessed with transfer activity, it’s easy to forget that there is perhaps even greater pleasure for supporters at seeing a homegrown talent emerge – not least at a club like Manchester United.

The modern, post-Sir Alex Ferguson era has been a rocky one, but arguably the brightest lights have emerged from Carrington, be it Marcus Rashford under Louis van Gaal, Scott McTominay under Jose Mourinho and Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo under Erik ten Hag.

The debate over whether it was right to move them on or not will continue to rage, but it is telling that three of that notable list of four are no longer part of the first-team ranks at Old Trafford, with Mainoo also now on the periphery under Ruben Amorim.

In an era of PSR and pure profit, academy sales have remarkably almost become incentivised, with the INEOS regime likely to be tempted to sell the 20-year-old sensation should his bit-part role continue.

For all the question marks over his suitability to Amorim’s system, it would be a crying shame if Mainoo were to depart in 2026 or beyond, with the 2024 FA Cup final hero surely deserving of a prime place as the centre-piece of the club’s long-term project.

The only saving grace, thankfully, is that the Stockport-born starlet isn’t the only rising star currently on the books – the Red Devils do at least have another talent on the conveyor belt to turn to.

Why Man Utd’s midfield could be completely overhauled in 2026

It is not hyperbole to suggest that there are question marks surrounding every senior midfielder in Amorim’s side right now, with drastic change likely to occur in that department, be it in January or next summer.

As already alluded too, Mainoo – in the short-term at least – looks destined to move on, amid talk of a loan move, with the ten-cap England international yet to even start a Premier League game this season.

The man he is directly competing with – as suggested by Amorim in the past – is Bruno Fernandes, albeit with the Portuguese genius’ own future up for debate, having come close to joining Saudi side Al Hilal over the summer.

At 31, the former Sporting CP certainly has plenty left in the tank, although he did hint that he will consider his situation again following next year’s World Cup, with his current deal set to expire in the summer of 2027.

Speaking of expiring contracts, there has been little news regarding the future of Casemiro, with the resurgent Brazilian’s current deal coming to a climax in June.

Currently raking in a reported £350k-per-week, the 33-year-old would seemingly have to take a significant pay cut to stay put in Manchester, with United and Amorim in need of a long-term replacement regardless, considering his age.

Manuel Ugarte was meant to be that defensive-minded, ball-winning successor, although the Uruguayan – starter in just two league games in 2025/26 – is also running out of rope at Old Trafford, in what is his second season at the club.

Ugarte – PL Record

Stat (*per game)

24/25

25/26

Games (starts)

29 (22)

9 (2)

Goals

1

0

Assists

2

0

Big chances created

3

0

Key passes*

0.3

0.1

Pass accuracy*

89%

86%

Total duels won*

53%

59%

Balls recovered*

4.2

2.2

Dribbled past*

1.3

0.4

Possession lost*

6.2

3.4

Stats via Sofascore

Having been given a dressing down by Amorim in front of his teammates following the Europa League final – in which he played no part – the former Sporting man is getting no favouritism right now, far from it, having yet to convince he is of United quality.

The 24-year-old is the de facto third-choice midfielder at present, although that is not a status he has warranted, with club legend Gary Neville putting it best when describing him as “not good enough” after the Manchester derby.

In truth, an in-house replacement is needed, both this season and beyond.

Man Utd’s new Mainoo can replace Ugarte

Ten Hag has become a figure of ridicule for many, but it’s easy to forget the initial progress he had made in the United dugout, setting a sinking ship back on course again following that initial calamity at Brentford.

In February 2023, for instance, United reached their apex under the Dutchman, memorably seeing off Barcelona in the Europa League, while also securing a deserved 2-0 win over Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final.

In the aftermath of that triumph, Ten Hag turned from short-term celebrations to long-term thinking, making a beeline for a 17-year-old Mainoo amid the jubilation, seemingly outlining that the teenager would have a part to play in such scenes later down the line.

While injury ensured it took until November 2023 for a first-team role to truly emerge – after making just three appearances in 2022/23 – Ten Hag’s faith in Mainoo was more than warranted, following his Man of the Match Premier League debut at Goodison.

Almost exactly two years on, and with Everton again the opponent, Amorim might well consider unleashing the next Mainoo-shaped figure into the midfield, in the form of Carrington sensation, Jack Fletcher.

The man who kept the club’s matchday academy record alive against Spurs, having been named on the bench in the absence of Mainoo, Fletcher – son of Darren and brother of fellow youth-team star, Tyler – is inching ever closer to a senior bow, with midfield evidently an area to address for Amorim.

Described as among the “best young players in England”, in the view of analyst and Como scout Ben Mattinson, the left-footed Fletcher looks primed for a left-sided central midfield role, having also been trialled at left-back in recent times in the youth ranks.

In the view of Mattinson, the 18-year-old is “one of the most technical of the lot” in the academy set-up, with his elegance and athleticism also ensuring he has “everything you’d want” from a left-sided number eight.

An England youth international, the former Manchester City starlet has enjoyed a promising 2025/26 thus far with three goals and one assist from ten recorded games, as per Transfermarkt, notably netting in the EFL Trophy defeat to Barnsley, prior to seeing red.

Oakwell was previously the scene for the standout moment of his United journey to date, as the Englishman netted twice to claim a comeback 3-2 win in the same competition last season, including an outrageous, long-range half volley at the death.

Much like there was an appetite for transfers over the summer, there is a real desire among the United faithful to see the next Mainoo, the next McTominay emerge in the coming weeks and months.

In The Pipeline

Football FanCast’s In the Pipeline series aims to uncover the very best youth players in world football.

Expand Collapse

With Mainoo, unfortunately, on the fringes, and Ugarte simply not up to scratch, Fletcher might well be primed to sneak into the mix as a genuine challenger to Casemiro before too long.

Related He's "much better" than Sesko: Man Utd pursuing "one of the best CFs in PL"

Manchester United could land a new centre-forward just months after landing Benjamin Sesko.

Posts ByEthan Lamb Nov 21, 2025

What must it be like to bowl fast in Tests for a non-Big Three nation? Just ask Asitha and Vishwa

Andrew Fidel Fernando25-Jun-2025If you are a seam bowler specialising in Tests, and hail from a non Big-Three nation, as Asitha Fernando and Vishwa Fernando do, you are charting one of the most difficult and least-rewarding courses in international cricket.Most difficult, because fast bowlers must put their own bodies on the altar of this sport in far more profound ways than batters, spinners, or even wicketkeepers. With every delivery there is the steaming in from dozens of metres away, the ridiculous force that goes through the front leg at the point of delivery, the shoulders, spines, obliques, groins, glutes, calves, feet, all being required to contribute some power to the occasion, and a follow-through that must be navigated safely. If any one of these sectors of your body is even slightly injured, it incapacitates a seam bowler more than similar injuries do for batters or spinners.Related

• How captain Dhananjaya is turning Sri Lanka into an image of himself

• Nissanka 146*, Chandimal 93 put Sri Lanka in control

• Dinusha, seamers make it Sri Lanka's day in rain-hit Colombo

Let’s take Lahiru Kumara as one example. He was the highest wicket-taker against Bangladesh in the away Test series last year, claiming 11 dismissals at an average of 12.63. The man had not played a single international since his last Test in early February, but had played most of a season of domestic cricket since then, and had been in good shape to make an impact on this home series against Bangladesh. But a week out, he busted a hamstring while fielding at training, and was ruled out of the series. He doesn’t get picked in many international white-ball XIs, so this injury will be taking a pretty serious playing opportunity out of his hands. And with a further 11 months before the next Sri Lanka Test is to be played, he has to show substantial willpower to stay in the game till then.(Side note: Lankan seam-bowling hamstrings in the last two decades have had artists’ temperaments. They are capable of jaw-dropping wonders like Dhammika Prasad’s spell on the fourth evening at Headingley, or Lasith Malinga’s rip-snorters. But if hamstrings had ears or lovers, Lankan fast bowling hamstrings are the type that would cut off their own appendages, or fall apart completely after a break up. They are sublime as part of a creative flow state, but absolutely never to be relied upon.)Asitha Fernando toiled hard on a surface not suited to his style•Sri Lanka CricketLeast-rewarding because, three league stints in a year (they don’t even really have to be the fancy leagues) will probably net you more money, for way less work. Plus, you know, the promotional dinners, and the parties. Non Big-Three Test cricket tends not to have a lot of parties. Why train your body to bowl 15-20 overs a day, when you can focus on being at peak performance for four?Matheesha Pathirana, as another example, is very likely the fastest bowler Sri Lanka has ever produced. But at this stage, seems unlikely to ever to play a Test. Chennai Super Kings’ scouts got to him before the Sri Lankan cricket system really had, and CSK have genuinely played a role in developing that talent, and have essentially called dibs. Not to put too fine a point on it, but if at the end of his career, Pathirana is remembered most for his IPL exploits, he will probably have earned more money by several orders of magnitude than he would if his career ends with Sri Lanka performances being the highlight.So pretty soon, it starts to feel like bowling 15-20 overs a day in Test cricket is like getting a several-year loan to buy a reliable Toyota for your family, only for some Crypto kid to pull up next to you at the colour-light in their fully paid-for Bugatti.Cricket slavishly follows the money now, rather than any other kind of value, and yet the likes of Asitha and Vishwa are still out here doing Test cricket justice by bringing everything they have to it. Asitha has bowling figures like 0 for 110, and 0 for 77 on his record, and yet somehow his work has never felt like “toil”. The word implies a physical limpness that Asitha has simply not allowed to enter his cricketing consciousness.Vishwa Fernando struck twice on the first day•Sri Lanka CricketHe may be a limited bowler in terms of height, pace, and skill, but to watch him operate in Tests is to watch naked and more-or-less relentless ambition. He took 2 for 43 on day one, on an SSC track not especially suited to his bowling (it was a bit slow for a seamer who tends to skid it on). He had had Anamul Haque dropped before he eventually took that wicket in his second over. Late in the day, he got one to pitch on a length, seam away, and hit the top of Nayeem Hasan’s off stump. He was pumped. But then he usually is.Vishwa, meanwhile, has always had the more laidback temperament. His mode of operation has been swing and seam, and he wiled his way through day one, less physically domineering than Asitha, but no less relentless, no less intense in the challenges he poses to batters. He moved it a little into the left-handers early on, but the seam movement had disappeared by the time a ball in the channel drew Najmul Hossain Shanto’s outside edge. Vishwa, a less-than-six-feet medium-pace bowler, will point to the bouncer he bowled the previous ball as a perfect set-up delivery to the wicket-taking one. You could doubt that explanation, but there’s no doubting figures of 2 for 35 off 16 overs – that economy rate being 2.18. There is almost no scorecard in the world in which those are not good figures.Sri Lankan Test seam bowling doesn’t necessarily have so rich a tradition, only three of their quicks (Chaminda Vaas, Malinga, and Suranga Lakmal) have ever taken more than 100 Test wickets. But as Test cricket appears to be winding down in several of its markets, it feels like Asitha and Vishwa are now partakers of a separate, global club of Test bowlers, who have trained their bodies to bowl 15-20 overs a day, and find themselves less valued than bowlers who send down only four.In this group, there are players such as Chris Martin, who took 233 Test wickets for New Zealand and was taking university courses (presumably to broaden job opportunities) well into his 30s, while sharing a dressing room with the likes of Brendon McCullum and Ross Taylor – each IPL millionaires. Others like Kemar Roach, owner of one of the most vicious inswingers in world cricket, has watched other careers take off into the T20 league stratosphere, while his remained moored to a middling West Indies Test side. Mohammad Abbas, Neil Wagner, Ebadot Hossain, Vernon Philander, Blessing Muzarabani – all these bowlers belong to this genre.Chris Martin leads a pack of Test fast bowlers who are valued lesser than T20 ones•Associated PressFor many in the non Big-Three sphere, it has begun to feel as if the publicity gained from “Saving Test Cricket” has become more profitable than the saving of Test cricket. This is why Bazball is able to equate the health of this format to scoring at between 4 and 4.5 per over, for example, while England has not hosted Bangladesh in the last 14 years, or Zimbabwe in more than 20 until the current summer. Australia have, in previous administrative eras, been hesitant tourists to South Asia. India’s modern top players play roughly half their Tests against the other Big Three teams. Jasprit Bumrah has played 59% of his 46 Tests against Australia and England.Still, what is happening at the SSC is Test cricket too, at least under current definitions. And increasingly Test cricket feels like a concept divorced from merit. Two of the three World Test Championship winners are sides with ailing Test programmes. Cricket has no serious will to fix that.The likes of Asitha and Vishwa will never have the chance to develop their Test-bowling skills as much as bowlers from nations that have stronger cricketing economies do. These are the margins of Test cricket that are most at-risk. If Asitha and Vishwa don’t make it, then who is going to inspire the next generation of Lankan red-ball bowlers?But at least in 2025, these two are still here, still putting their bodies through the seam-bowling rigours, and still taking important wickets. Test cricket is lucky to still have them.

Glasgow Rangers underwent a squad overhaul during the summer transfer window after a change in ownership and a change in the coaching department with Russell Martin’s arrival.

Kevin Thelwell also joined as the team’s new sporting director and the former Everton chief was given plenty of money to play with to bolster the squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

Unfortunately, as shown in the graphic above, that ended with Martin winning five of his 17 matches in charge of the Ibrox giants before being relieved of his duties last month.

Thelwell’s attacking signings, in particular, have to be placed under the microscope as he signed Youssef Chermiti from his former club for a fee of £8m, the most money spent on a Rangers signing since Tore Andre Flo for £12m in 2000.

So far, the Portugal U21 international has only scored one goal in all competitions for the Light Blues, which shows that they have not received value for money on that £8m yet.

Chermiti was brought in after the club sold centre-forward Hamza Igamane to Lille for a fee of £10.4m, and it is fair to say that they have not replaced him very well on current evidence.

Where Hamza Igamane ranks in the most expensive Rangers sales

The Morocco international only went for a fee of £10.4m because of a reported release clause in his contract, which would have been in place before Thelwell took over as sporting director, which means that he cannot be blamed for that situation.

Igamane ended his only season with the Ibrox giants with a return of 16 goals and three assists in 49 appearances in all competitions, which included 12 goals in 33 outings in the Scottish Premiership, per Transfermarkt.

The 23-year-old attacker also showcased his quality in the biggest matches, scoring the winner against Celtic in the clip above and scoring four goals in the Europa League.

As you can see in the table above, the Morocco international does still rank as the third-most expensive sale in the club’s history, behind Nathan Patterson and Calvin Bassey, but the release clause possibly stopped him from climbing higher up that list.

His departure has been a big loss for the Gers, on top of that, as Chermiti and fellow summer signing Bojan Miovski have combined for two Premiership goals after coming in to replace him and Cyriel Dessers.

Whilst Igamane was a big loss in the summer, there is a Rangers star attracting interest whose departure from Ibrox would be an even bigger loss for Danny Rohl.

Rangers star attracting interest ahead of January

Journalist Pete O’Rourke has revealed that there are clubs circling around Light Blues central midfielder Nicolas Raskin ahead of the January transfer window.

O’Rourke told Football Insider: “There was interest in Raskin in the summer window from a number of clubs in the Premier League and across Europe as well. There is still interest in the Belgium international and that’s not going to go away.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

“I’m sure clubs are keeping tabs on the situation at Rangers. I don’t think Rangers ideally would want to lose him midway through the season. It would have to be a big, big fee for Rangers to even consider selling him, that’s what I think it would take for them to let him go in January.”

Football Insider adds that the Belgium international is ‘tempted’ by the prospect of a move to the Premier League in January, amid interest from Leeds United and Tottenham Hotspur.

However, as O’Rourke outlined in those comments, it would take a significant fee for the Scottish giants to consider parting ways with the midfield star, whose contract expires at the end of next season.

Why Rangers must keep hold of Nicolas Raskin

The Light Blues must resist any attempts to prise the Belgian star away from Ibrox in January because losing him would be an even bigger blow than it was to sell Igamane in the summer.

Of course, the Morocco international’s goals were important and his absence has been felt, mainly because of Chermiti and Miovski’s struggles, but he mainly impacted games in possession with his attacking play.

Raskin, however, is an exceptional box-to-box midfielder who can influence matches with his play in and out of possession, which means that he is even more important than Igamane to the overall structure of the side.

The 24-year-old star, who scored against Dundee in the Premiership before the international break, produced four goals and ten assists in the Premiership during the 2024/25 campaign, whilst also winning 57% of his duels, per Sofascore.

In the current campaign, the midfielder has delivered one goal and two assists along with 6.7 duels won per game at a success rate of 54%, per Sofascore, which shows that he is impacting matches at both ends.

FotMob rating

7.50

3rd

Chances created

17

2nd

Assists

2

Joint-1st

Goals involvements

3

2nd

Passes completed per 90

52.3

6th

Tackles won

20

2nd

Interceptions

7

Joint-3rd

As you can see in the table above, the Belgium international ranks highly among his teammates in a host of key metrics both in and out of possession in the league this season.

In fact, Raskin ranks within the top 11% of midfielders in the division for duels won (60) and the top 18% for tackles won (20) in the Premiership this season, which shows that he has been a standout defensively both by Rangers and Premiership standards.

The former Standard Liege ace, who was once dubbed “sensational” by former teammate Scott Arfield, is clearly crucial to what the Gers do at both ends of the pitch, with his contributions offensively and defensively.

That is why losing him would be an even bigger blow than when they lost Igamane in the summer, as the Moroccan forward only won 39% of his defensive duels and made 23 tackles over the entire season in the Premiership last term, per FotMob.

Rohl can unearth bigger talent than Gassama in £3.5m Rangers flop

Danny Rohl could unearth a bigger talent than Djeidi Gassama in this Rangers flop.

ByDan Emery Nov 15, 2025

Therefore, even if a ‘big’ offer comes over the desk in the January window, the club should look to keep hold of him until they have the summer window to take their time to replace the midfield star.

It’s officially deadline day in baseball. The trade market has been slow to heat up this season, but there were finally some major moves pulled off Wednesday with the Phillies acquiring Twins closer Jhoan Duran, the Mets trading for Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley and more. It seems we’ve moved past the quiet into the storm.

We’ll grade every major move in the hours leading up to the deadline as teams take advantage of their last chance to make significant upgrades ahead of the stretch run.

Astros Reunite With World Series Champ in Deal With Twins

Astros acquire: INF Carlos Correa
Twins acquire: LHP Matt Mikulski, $30 million

Carlos Correa is headed back to Houston in a deal that reunites him with the team he won a World Series with in 2017. The Astros, currently sitting at 62–47 and leading the American League West, sent lefty pitching prospect Matt Mikulski along with $30 million cash to Minnesota in exchange for the veteran, who will shift to third base for the first time in his career to fill in for the injured Isaac Paredes.

The trade of Correa bookended what was a complete teardown for the Twins, who shipped out nearly a dozen players at the deadline. Dealing the 30-year-old was a salary dump more than anything, as they’re now out from under the remaining three-plus years of the six-year, $200 million contract he signed in 2023.

Astros grade: A-
Twins grade: C+

Padres, Land O’Hearn, Laureano From Orioles in Massive Deal

Padres acquire: OF Ramon Laureano, 1B/DH Ryan O’Hearn
Orioles acquire: LHP Boston Bateman, RHP Tanner Smith, INF Cobb Hightower, INF/OF Victor Figuero, RHP Tyson Neighbors, INF Bandon Butterworth

A.J. Preller doesn’t stop. The Padres general manager finally upgraded his lineup with a positively massive deal. Left field has been brutal for the Padres this season and they get a major upgrade in Ramon Laureano. The 31-year-old is slashing .290/.355/.529 with 15 home runs, 46 RBIs and a 144 wRC+. He has a cheap team option for 2026. O’Hearn is having a breakout campaign, slashing .283/.334/.427 with 15 home runs, 59 RBIs and a 134 wRC+. He will be a free agent after the season. 

In return, the Orioles got a boatload of prospects, headline by Bateman, a 19-year-old 6’ 8” lefty who was a second-round pick in 2024. He has good velocity, a great curveball and earns top marks for his makeup. He’s the Padres No. 4 prospect. Hightower is the Padres’ No. 6 prospect., he was their third-rounder in 2024 and had team evaluators excited about his bat-to-ball ability and overall game. Neighbors looks like a future closer, Butterworth has been a breakout prospect this year, and Figueroa has a 1.008 OPS at two levels this season. There’s a lot to like about this return. The Padres filled big lineup needs and the Orioles got back an impressive haul.

Padres grade: B+
Orioles grade: A-

Padres Pay Hefty Price For Catching Upgrade

Padres acquire: C Freddy Fermin
Royals acquire: SP Stephen Kolek, SP Ryan Bergert

The Padres have needed to improve their catching situation all season, with Elias Diaz and Martin Maldonado leading a group that has combined to produce -1.7 WAR in 2025. They were desperate for help, so they landed Fermin from the Royals. That said, he may not be much help. The 30-year-old veteran backup is slashing .355/.309/.339 with three home runs and 12 RBIs in 67 games this season. He has produced 1.2 WAR in that time, which is an upgrade over San Diego’s current pairing. 

Unfortunately for the Padres, to make the deal they had to surrender two young starting pitchers with a ton of team control. Kolek transitioned to a starting role from the bullpen and has been solid this season. The 28-year-old is 4–5 with a 4.18 ERA and a 1.31 WHIP. Bergert debuted this season and the 25-year-old has been surprisingly effective. In 11 appearances (seven starts) he’s 1–0 with a 2.78 ERA, a 1.18 WHIP and 34 strikeouts in 35 ⅔ innings. 

The fact that the Royals turned a light-hitting backup catcher into two backend starting pitchers is a big win.

Padres grade: C-
Royals grade: B+

Mets Fill Centerfield Void With Cedric Mullins Trade

Mets acquire: CF Cedric Mullins
Orioles acquire: RHP Anthony Nunez, RHP Raimon Gomez, RHP Chandler Marsh

The April injury to Jose Siri left a void in center field that the Mets struggled to fill, as New York’s center fielders have amassed -0.2 WAR, 17th in MLB. Enter Mullins, who has belted 15 home runs, swiped 14 bases and has rated as an above-average center fielder defensively in Statcast’s Outs Above Average. He figures to slot in towards the bottom of the Mets batting order, which has been unproductive thanks to injuries and inconsistencies. And the best part? Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns didn’t have to surrender any top-10 prospects to import the speedy outfielder. 

Meanwhile, while it’s fair to wonder if Baltimore’s prospect return was a bit paltry, it’s also true that Mullins’s early-season struggles made it seem unlikely that he’d be dealt come July, But the Orioles’ front office was able to net three prospects—righthanders Anthony Nunez, Raimon Gomez and Chandler Marsh—all relievers who have showcased the ability to miss bats at various levels. While they’ll all need to polish their control of the strike zone, the Orioles have addressed the farm system’s biggest weakness: its pitching. 

Mets grade: A-
Orioles grade: B-

Yankees Land Bednar in Trade With Pirates

Yankees acquire: RP David Bednar
Twins acquire: C/1B Rafael Flores, C Edgleen Perez, OF Brian Sanchez

The Yankees' bullpen has been utterly atrocious of late, so bringing in a steady arm like Bednar is a move the team simply couldn't afford to miss out on. They'll part ways with some valued prospects, but Bednar should give them the reliable option in late innings that they've been lacking in their current tandem of Luke Weaver and Devin Williams. 

This move was a necessity for the Yankees. It didn't come cheaply, but the market for relief pitching is absurdly high at this point, so no deal for a quality late-innings pitcher would've been easy to pull off. New York gets one of the best relievers in the sport and holds onto all of its top five prospects in the process. Not bad at all.

It feels as if the Pirates could've gotten a slightly improved haul for Bednar, though adding two of New York's top 15 prospects is certainly solid for a reliever with only one additional season of control. It certainly addresses an area of need for the Pirates, who, despite drafting Henry Davis with the No. 1 pick in 2021, are without a single catching prospect inside their top 20, per MLB Pipeline.

Yankees grade: A-
Pirates grade: B+

Phillies Add Much-Needed Right-Handed Bat

Phillies acquire: OF Harrison Bader
Twins acquire: OF Hendry Mendez. RHP Geremy Villoria

The Philadelphia Phillies addressed their biggest trade deadline need at the beginning on Thursday when they landed Minnesota Twins closer Jhoan Duran to shore up the back-end of the bullpen. After getting one deadline deal done with Minnesota, Philadelphia figured they’d go back to the well and trade for a much-needed outfield bat in Harrison Bader. In return, the Phillies sent two more prospects back to Minnesota in outfielder Hendry Mendez and RHP Geremy Villoria.

The 31-year-old Bader was one of the biggest outfield bats on the market this year, as he’s slashed .258/.339/.439 with a 111 OPS+ and 12 home runs in 96 games this season. While he has served primarily as the starting left fielder in Minnesota, he’s likely to support the Phillies’ outfield in a platoon role given his penchant of mashing left-handed pitching in his career. The fit between Bader and Philadelphia was an obvious one when it became apparent that the Twins were selling, and this seems like a tailor-made fit for both parties as the Phillies pursue a World Series.

As for Minnesota, given the interest in Bader on the open market, the Twins did well on their return here in landing Mendez, who was a top-20 prospect in the Philadelphia system, along with a developmental arm in Villoria.

Phillies grade: A
Twins grade: B+

Padres Sell the Farm for Mason Miller

Padres acquire: RP Mason Miller, SP JP Sears
Athletics acquire: SS Leodalis De Vries, P Braden Nett, P Henry Báez, P Eduarniel Nuñez

The Padres have never been afraid to make a deal at the deadline, and their move on Thursday was as bold as they come.

San Diego parted ways with shortstop Leodalis De Vries—the top prospect in their farm system and the No. 3 prospect in all of MLB—in order to add another phenomenal relief arm in Miller, and a serviceable starting arm in Sears.

Like any other trade, if the move works and the Padres make a run, all will be forgiven. Also, it’s possible that this move looks a bit different by the end of the day depending on what other moves the Padres decide to make at the deadline as one of the teams in the murky position of being both buyers and sellers.

All that said, the Athletics landed two of the Padres top three and four of the Padres top 20 prospects. For a team that is far from looking to contend right now, it’s a move for the future, and a good one. The Athletics are gearing up for their big move to Las Vegas, and putting themselves is a good position to make a splash when they open up their new home.

Padres grade: C-
Athletics grade: A+

Eugenio Suarez Boomerangs Back to the Mariners

Mariners acquire: 3B Eugenio Suarez
Diamondbacks acquire: 1B Tyler Locklear, P Hunter Cranton, P Juan Burgos

The rise of Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh as a league-leading slugger is one of the biggest surprises of the baseball year, and one that has Seattle right in the thick of the playoff hunt.

Already with a solid starting rotation, the Mariners decided to add another bat to the lineup, bringing back third baseman Eugenio Suarez in a trade with the Diamondbacks just a little over a year after shipping him off to Arizona. He was the best bat on the market, and the fact that he’s already familiar with the Diamondbacks organization comes as a bonus.

Giving up three players for a rental is never risk-free, but the Mariners by no means raided their own farm system to pull this deal off, and with Seattle clearly down to strike while the iron and Raleigh’s bat are both hot, this was an easy move to make—the Mariners wanted another bat, and got the best one on the market.

Mariners grade: A
Diamondbacks grade: B-

Phillies Address Biggest Need at Steep Price

Phillies acquire: RP Jhoan Duran
Twins acquire: SP Mick Abel, C Eduardo Tait

The Philadelphia Phillies added a major piece to the back end of their bullpen, agreeing to acquire standout closer Jhoan Duran from the Minnesota Twins in a blockbuster trade on Wednesday.

The Phillies haven't had a true closer this season, splitting the role between various late-innings relievers including Jordan Romero, Jose Alvarado and Matt Strahm, all of whom have six or more saves. Duran provides them with a stable closer and a dependable option in the ninth inning, having enjoyed a sensational 2025 season.

It wasn't a cheap trade for Philadelphia to execute, though. The Twins were able to pry two of their top prospects away in exchange for Duran, acquiring catcher Eduardo Tait and right-handed starting pitcher Mick Abel.

Abel, 23, has already pitched in the majors this season and has shown flashes of brilliance in his first taste of the big leagues. He's the No. 6 prospect in Philadelphia's farm system, per MLB Pipeline, and should develop into a solid MLB starter. Though he had a 5.04 ERA in his first six starts, he was sensational in his debut, striking out nine batters while surrendering five hits and no runs against the Padres. His upside his high, and he won't be as under as much pressure to perform right away with the Twins not contending just yet.

As for Tait, he's the Phillies' No. 4 prospect and while he's still a few years from making his debut in MLB, he certainly seems promising at age 18. At Single A and A+ ball, Tait has a .753 OPS with 11 home runs and 57 RBIs across 82 games, while boasting a great arm behind the plate.

The price was steep, but Philadelphia managed to hold onto prized pitching prospect Andrew Painter. Duran is electric, with a flamethrower of an arm and a pristine 2.01 ERA with 16 saves on the year. He's struck out 53 batters in 49 1/3 innings and has surrendered just one home run all season. He won't hit free agency until 2028, either, so the Phillies now have themselves a closer for the present, and for the future.

Minnesota's farm system was lacking a top right-handed pitching prospect, and they received just that in Abel, as well as a developmental piece in Tait who could potentially be an everyday catcher in the majors down the line.

Phillies grade: A-
Twins grade: B+

Mets Overhaul Their Bullpen With Two Deadline Deals

Mets acquire: RP Tyler Rogers, RP Ryan Helsley
Giants acquire: RP Jose Butto, OF Drew Gilbert, P Blade Tidwell
Cardinals acquire: SS Jesus Baez, P Nate Dohm, P Frank Elissalt

While this was technically two different deals, we’re going to examine them as one large move the Mets made in order to overhaul their rotation of relievers ahead of closer Edwin Diaz.

The Mets are landing plenty of talent. Rogers, a submariner, is enjoying what might be his best season in the big leagues. He's 4-3 with a 1.80 ERA, 0.86 WHIP, and 38 strikeouts against only four walks in 50 innings. He gets people out.

Meanwhile, Helsley is the reigning NL Reliever of the Year, and while he hasn't reached the same highs this season, he still sports a solid 3.00 ERA, alongside a 1.39 WHIP, and 41 strikeouts in 36 innings.

Both moves will undoubtedly add some much-needed firepower to the Mets bullpen, but New York had to give up a good amount of talented prospects in order to pull off the two deals, both of which are rentals with Rogers and Helsley set to become free agents after the year.

We won’t know the true value of this deal until either the Mets make a run at the World Series, or some of the prospects they parted ways with start making an impact in the big leagues. For now, it feels like a pretty solid deadline deal for all parties involved.

Mets grade: B
Giants grade: B+
Cardinals grade: B+

Manchester United are now battling Tottenham Hotspur to sign a young winger who’s been compared to Neymar, according to recent reports.

Man Utd "really inconsistent", admits Amorim

Not many were more frustrated inside Old Trafford than Ruben Amorim in midweek. His Man United side have now won just once in their last five games, albeit having also lost once in that time, and failed to convert their chances yet again in a 1-1 draw against struggling West Ham United.

Amorim shared his frustration with reporters after the game, saying: “No, it’s not going backwards, the results kept going backwards. We had some moments.

“Again, that can happen when one team you were talking about, when we had that run, that the team was really perfect and I was saying, ‘We are not far from being in the perfect moment’.

“We are really inconsistent. But if you look at the goal, 83 minutes, we have a long ball. We have everything under control. We need to do better.”

Whether Man United “do better” this weekend is now the big question. They square off against Wolverhampton Wanderers in a game in which anything other than three points will not be deemed acceptable.

"Pretty torrid" – Samuel Luckhurst slams Man Utd star vs West Ham

Manchester United dropped yet more points against West Ham.

ByFFC Staff 7 days ago

The Midlands club are yet to win a game this season and sit rock bottom of the Premier League on two points. Amorim cannot hand them that first victory.

As things stand, the former Sporting CP boss retains the backing of INEOS, who have reportedly joined the race to sign another attacking reinforcement for their manager in Nilson Angulo.

Man Utd battling to sign Nilson Angulo

According to TeamTalk, Man United are now battling Tottenham to sign Nilson Angulo after completing their scouting mission. The Anderlecht star is also on the radar of Leeds United, Brentford and Brighton & Hove Albion in an all Premier League race.

With four goals and eight assists to his name in all competitions this season, the 22-year-old is one of the best young wingers in Europe and it should come as no surprise that he’s attracted the interest of United.

Dubbed “dynamic” by U23 scout Antonio Mango in 2024, Angulo has only improved ever since and would now undoubtedly make his mark in Amorim’s United side.

Some have even reportedly gone as far as to compare the Ecuador winger with Neymar in what is the highest praise that a South American star can receive these days. If Angulo is anywhere near as talented as the former Barcelona star then United should go all out for his signature.

Fewer touches than Lammens & 100% duels lost: Man Utd flop must be dropped

Manchester United’s 1-0 defeat to 10-man Everton in the Premier League on Monday night highlights the job Ruben Amorim still has on his hands at Old Trafford.

Kiernan Drewsbury-Hall’s effort in the first half was enough to secure all three points for David Moyes’ men, which will no doubt leave the Red Devils boss scratching his head.

His men spent 77 minutes with a one-man advantage, but none of his first-team squad could pop up with the goods to extend their unbeaten run in England’s top-flight.

Despite spending £200m on a new attacking trio over the summer, the Red Devils looked largely toothless in front of goal, as seen by their tally of 100% big chances missed.

However, the manager will desperately want added reinforcements in the upcoming January window to aid him in his quest for success during his time at Old Trafford.

United’s hunt for added attacking signings in January

Over the last couple of weeks, Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo has been identified as just one player whom United are targeting for the January transfer window.

The Ghanaian international has been in remarkable form during the early stages of 2025/26, with the winger already netting six goals and three assists in just 11 appearances for the Cherries.

However, Amorim’s men aren’t alone in the pursuit of the 25-year-old, with Arsenal and Liverpool just two other top-flight clubs seeking a £65m move for his signature.

He’s not the only player on the Red Devils’ shortlist, with Real Madrid star Vinícius Júnior a player who INEOS are potentially considering a move for in the coming months.

According to The Mirror, the Brazilian international could leave the LaLiga giants in the coming months, with the forward having just 19 months left on his current deal – leading to keen interest from the Red Devils.

It also states his recent bust-up with senior members at the Bernabeu could see them cash in on his services to avoid losing him for nothing in the near future.

How Vinicius Junior compares to Bryan Mbeumo

As part of their £200m spending spree in the summer, United forked out a reported £71m on the services of forward Bryan Mbeumo from fellow Premier League side Brentford.

The Cameroonian generated huge excitement within the Red Devils fanbase after netting 20 times in the league last season, with the 26-year-old already making an excellent start to life at Old Trafford.

He’s already netted five goals in his first 12 league outings for the club, with such a tally currently making him the top goalscorer within Amorim’s squad.

However, his showing against Everton yesterday was one to forget, with the attacker struggling to provide the goods amid the absence of Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha.

Mbeumo was only able to register a single effort on target whilst also failing to complete any of his three attempted dribbles – further highlighting his lack of impact in the final third.

There’s no doubt he’s been a shrewd addition to date, but ultimately, he hasn’t been able to get near the levels produced by Vinicius during his opening matches in LaLiga.

When comparing the pair’s respective stats this campaign, the Brazilian has massively outperformed Mbeumo – showcasing why he’d be a better addition for the Red Devils.

Vinicius, who’s been dubbed the “best in the world” by Thierry Henry, has racked up more combined goals and assists this season – subsequently handing Amorim a more threatening option in front of goal.

He’s also registered more key passes and more passes into the final third per 90, with such numbers allowing those around him to be on the end of more chances in attacking areas.

Games played

13

12

Goals & assists

9

6

Progressive carries

8.9

2.8

Progressive passes

4.8

2.7

Pass accuracy

80%

73%

Key passes

2.9

1.7

Passes into final third

1.9

1.5

Take-on success

38%

33%

Carries into final third

2.9

1.9

The Brazilian’s all-round dominance over Mbeumo is further highlighted in his higher take-on success and greater tally of carries into the final third per 90, which showcases his ability to go alone when needed.

A player of Vini Jr’s quality would cost a small fortune in today’s market, with such a move likely to break the club’s current transfer record of £89m paid for Paul Pogba.

However, it would be a deal worth every penny, with the winger having all of the tools to take the United frontline to the next level for many years to come under Amorim’s guidance.

Not just Zirkzee: Man Utd man who was among the 'world's best' must be axed

Manchester United’s flaws were brutally exposed in Monday’s dismal defeat to Everton.

ByRobbie Walls Nov 25, 2025

The Australia fast bowler has been a colossal cricketer, marrying longevity with success across all three formats

Andrew McGlashan09-Jul-20251:08

Watch: Starc stars from around the wicket

Think of Mitchell Starc and one thing probably comes into your mind: the booming inswinger, thundering into either the batter’s pads, toes or stumps. But to reach 100 Tests, the club Starc will join at Sabina Park this week, as only the second Australian fast bowler ever, you must have much more than one calling card, even if it’s as destructive as Starc’s can be.There is every chance the Jamaica Test turns into a double milestone for Starc: he is five wickets away from 400. Given his record in pink-ball matches – 74 wickets at 18.14 – few would bet against him, but even if he needs to wait a bit longer for the wickets, he will be just the eighth fast bowler to complete the 100 Test/400 wicket double.Starc, who until 14 was a wicketkeeper, has been a colossal cricketer, marrying longevity with success across all three formats. It was the ODI game where he initially secured a legacy, removing Brendon McCullum in the opening over of the 2015 World Cup final at the MCG, and for a time it was possible to ponder how his Test career would be viewed, but the word great can sit comfortably alongside him. Where does he stand in an all-time Australia fast bowler’s list? If Dennis Lillee and Glenn McGrath jostle for the top two, a case can easily be made to be among the top five.Related

'Might be a few things going on' as Sabina Park makes pink-ball debut

'It makes me feel old' – Starc reflects on journey to 100 Tests

Ashes Slashes: Broad gives 'muddled' Australia top three the thumbs down

Australia's Awesome Foursome among the best in Test history

From Galle to Lord's: Starc's ten greatest Test performances

“It’s an incredible achievement,” coach Andrew McDonald said. “You think of the surfaces we play on in Australia, they’re firm, they’re hard, they take their toll. There’s a reason why there’s only two that have ever done it for Australia. His resilience, his planning, his preparation… and he’s sacrificed a fair bit along the way as well.”You look to some of the IPLs that he’s missed to get his body right to play for Australia. He’s put a lot of work into it. I’m really proud of him and he’s getting his great reward for what he’s given up and the way he’s gone about it. All the plaudits that are coming his way this week he deserves.”Having made his Test debut in 2011 against New Zealand (McCullum was his first wicket), Starc has previously spoken about 2015 being the period when he started to feel he belonged in the format. He has maintained outstanding consistency with his average not rising above 30 since 2016.That was the year he produced a prolific series in Sri Lanka with 24 wickets at 15.16, albeit where Australia lost 3-0. One of his most influential displays also came on the subcontinent. It won’t sit among his biggest hauls, but the 4 for 33 he took against Pakistan in Lahore in 2022 broke the game open and set up Australia’s historic series win.Mitchell Starc is set to become only the second Australian fast bowler to play 100 Tests•AFP/Getty ImagesThere have been some periods of struggle, however, notably a couple of series against India in 2018-19 and 2020-21, while he only played one match of the 2019 Ashes in England when he was not considered an ideal fit for the Dukes ball. It’s worth noting that the Test he played at Old Trafford, he helped secure victory to retain the Ashes. Oddly, he was left out of the next match at The Oval as Australia got too cute with their selections. He was also omitted for the opening match of the 2023 Ashes but went on to be the series leading wicket-taker and would be named a Wisden Cricketer of the Year for his efforts.The evolution of Starc’s Test bowling in recent years has been significant. He has been a leading adopter of the “wobble seam” delivery, which has given him more wicket-taking options. He retains the lethal inswinger, but has a full set of tools at his disposal and when the ball reverses, there remain few better at taking advantage.”As a younger bowler, it was all about speed and swing and getting the ball full,” McDonald said. “If you look at the evolution of Mitchell Starc, it’s his ability to hold line and length now. He can do any role you want. He’s still got those full swinging deliveries, which we really encourage at the right time but he’s able to hold length and control the scoreboard.”I don’t know how he’ll age in terms of what he’s been able to do across three formats, but I’d say arguably he’s our best 50-over bowler that we’ve had in terms of his impact on games. You add that with 100 Test matches, 65 T20s and the impact he’s had there. It’s an incredible record.”Mitchell Starc goes into the day-night Test against West Indies with 74 pink-ball wickets at 18.14•Getty ImagesStarc was termed “soft” early in his career by Shane Warne, who often remained one of his more vocal critics. For a while, he took notice of a lot of what was said about him, although latterly he has become confident enough in himself not to be affected. Ahead of the 2021-22 Ashes, his place in the team was questioned. He responded by removing Rory Burns with the first delivery of the series and since then has 140 wickets at 27.07. Two other times he has struck with the opening delivery of a Test, and on 20 occasions in the first over. It’s not just a white-ball trick.Against India last season, with Australia under immense pressure after their drubbing in Perth, he righted the ship with a career-best 6 for 48 in Adelaide. This year, he is averaging 20.86.Since the start of the 2021-22 Ashes, he has bowled more overs than any quick in the world (currently 1.3 ahead of captain Pat Cummins) with only Prabath Jayasuriya and Nathan Lyon ahead of him. In Jamaica, he will bowl his 19,000th Test delivery. His fitness record stands out, but he has regularly bowled through the pain barrier: a broken finger against South Africa at the MCG in 2022, groin problems in the 2023 Ashes and a troublesome ankle at the backend of last season’s India series, after which he went on to play as the lone specialist quick bowler in Sri Lanka.It has been noted in recent days how, at the age of 35, his speeds are not dropping. “I can’t fathom playing 100 games and keeping that kind of [145kph] speed,” Cummins said. “He’s just a warrior. Turns up every week and wants to play no matter what.”How much longer he goes remains to be seen, but completing this new World Test Championship [WTC] cycle certainly seems realistic. Then, perhaps, one last dart at winning an Ashes in England? But regardless of when Starc calls time, at what feels like a critical juncture in the game’s history it is not outlandish to suggest there may not be another player – and almost certainly not an express quick – to have a career quite like his.

There have been some emotional farewells from Tottenham Hotspur over the last couple of years.

While Ange Postecoglou’s exit was not met with tears, the departures of Harry Kane back in 2023 and Son Heung-min in 2025 were sad indeed.

Kane left for Bayern Munich as the greatest goalscorer in Spurs history while Son will certainly go down as one of the most electrifying and most-liked players the supporters have ever seen.

While the South Korean saw his powers wane last season, he did still score 11 goals and register 12 assists in his 46 appearances.

Trying to replace that output has been a challenge. While Son reminds everyone of just how good he still is at LA FC, bagging ten goals in his first 12 outings in MLS, the likes of Wilson Odobert, Richarlison and Brennan Johnson continue to divide opinion with their displays in the Spurs forward line.

Richarlison, in particular, is a polarising figure and despite his goal against Manchester United on Saturday, is not likely to last too much longer as a Lilywhite.

Why Richarlison's Spurs career is under threat

Has there been a more perplexing player in Tottenham’s recent history than Richarlison?

Signed for a mega £60m back in 2022 after an 11-goal and five-assist season for Everton, hopes were great for a player who had been a real nuisance in the Premier League.

That said, whatever possessed Daniel Levy and Co to pay such a massive sum was questionable even then. It’s a question we’re still trying to answer to this day.

It’s been a troubled few years for the Brazilian in north London. Back in 2022/23, he scored just one goal in 27 Premier League outings. He did net 11 in 2023/24 but followed that up with another terrible return last season, bagging five goals in 24 outings across all competitions.

On paper, the forward’s numbers from the ongoing campaign don’t look bad. The 28-year-old has scored four goals in 11 top-flight outings but his inconsistency is what frustrates supporters so much.

Having missed a big chance in the first half in classic Richarlison fashion, he flicked home a deft header on Saturday, a moment that looked as though it had won Thomas Frank’s side the game. We all know how that ended.

That rather summed up the attacker’s time at Spurs. A rash finish followed by a goal, but it simply hasn’t been acceptable for a number of years now.

BBC Sport’s Nat Haywood perhaps described Richarlison best this season, simply beginning an article by describing him as an “enigma.”

While he has found himself in decent form during 2025/26, the former Everton and Watford man has had his chance. He’s often found wanting in front of goal and his injury record is not the best either. As per Transfermarkt, he has missed 377 days of action since moving.

So, what’s the solution? Well, fortunately enough for Frank, Spurs have a number of top-drawer youngsters in their ranks.

How Spurs can solve their Richarlison problem

Truth be told, not many clubs in the country possess the calibre of young talent that Spurs currently have in their ranks.

From Lucas Bergvall, once wanted by Barcelona, to Archie Gray and Wilson Odobert, there are plenty of fresh faces in the first-team squad.

Beyond that, teenager Mikey Moore, who was previously compared to Neymar by James Maddison, has just scored his first goal on loan at Rangers while Spurs are also due to welcome the “Irish Alexander Isak” to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the form of young Mason Melia.

Lest we forget Luca Williams-Barnett too, a 17-year-old who made his senior debut just a matter of weeks ago.

For now, however, we’d like to focus on a young South Korean by the name of Yang Min-hyeok.

Spurs officially announced the signing of Yang back in the summer of 2024 and he joined the club once he had turned 18 in January of this year.

A winger by trade, before he’d even moved to Spurs, journalist and South Korean football expert, Jason Lee, suggested that the teenager “is expected to be Korea’s next superstar like Son Heung-min.”

While the forward is yet to hit those dizzy heights just yet, it’s been an impressive start in senior football.

Before he’d even become an adult, Yang was making a mighty fine impact for Gangwon FC in the K-League, playing 38 times for the South Korean side, scoring 12 times and supplying six assists. It’s easy to see why he’d captured the eye of Spurs scouts.

Gangwon FC

38

12

6

QPR

14

2

1

Portsmouth

10

2

1

Spurs

0

0

0

The young attacker is yet to play a senior competitive game for the Lilywhites but has enjoyed two separate loan spells in the EFL, firstly with QPR last season and secondly with Portsmouth in 2025/26.

Yang’s numbers don’t capture the imagination too much just yet but one can excuse a period of adaptation for someone who has only been in Europe for 11 months now.

It took him a few months to get up to speed at Portsmouth but he is now earning some impressive reviews. Scout Jacek Kulig wrote how he is “on fire” at Pompey, having scored against Watford and also fired in a winner against high-flying Middlesbrough in October.

Further described as the “Korean Marco Reus” by football writer Albert Kim, he wrote that “if you give him too much time and space, he’s going to hurt you.” That certainly sounds a lot like Son.

Yang has a long way to go before he can be considered a player ready to make an impact in the Spurs first team but capable of playing on either flank, as well as a striker, he has the positional versatility and attributes to take Richarlison’s place in the squad in the future.