All posts by z3u9t.icu

It seemed like forever that Arsenal had been away from the Champions League before their return to the competition in 2023, allowing them to make more memories in the famous competition.

From squeezing through the group stages to making the final in dramatic circumstances, the north Londoners have had plenty of memorable moments under the lights since making their debut in 1998.

Football FanCast has ranked 25 of the Gunners’ best Champions League moments.

Every Arsenal Champions League campaign

Arsenal are back as Champions League contenders – here’s how their overall record stands.

ByStephan Georgiou May 15, 2025 25 2005/06: Arsenal 2-1 FC Thun Bergkamp rescues Arsenal late on

Champions League minnows FC Thun were plying their trade in non-league eight years prior to this fixture and were expected to be rolled over with ease. But it certainly didn’t pan out like that.

Arsenal had to play with 10 men for much of the match after Robin van Persie received a straight red card for catching Alen Orman in the face with his boot.

The Gunners found themselves frustrated by the Swiss outfit and appeared to be heading towards a shock draw before Dennis Bergkamp struck home a dramatic stoppage-time winner to spare his side’s blushes.

24 2000/01: Arsenal 2-1 Valencia Parlour screamer downs Valencia

Arsenal came back from 1-0 down against La Liga giants Valencia to secure a 2-1 victory in the Champions League quarter-finals.

Thierry Henry levelled the score in the 58th minute before Ray Parlour netted a thunderous strike from distance two minutes later to put the north Londoners ahead.

Unfortunately, the second leg saw the Spanish side advance on away goals after winning 1-0 at the Mestalla.

Valencia went on to reach the final before suffering a heartbreaking defeat to Bayern Munich on penalties.

23 2003/04: Arsenal 1-0 Dynamo Kyiv Ashley Cole keeps Gunners alive

Bonfire Night in 2003 produced an electrifying atmosphere at Highbury after Ashley Cole netted an 88th-minute winner to clinch a 1-0 victory against Dynamo Kyiv.

The all-important result kept Arsenal’s Champions League dreams afloat as they went on to win their final two group games to qualify for the knockout stages of the competition.

The Gunners reached the quarter-finals before suffering a late 3-2 aggregate defeat to London rivals Chelsea.

22 2005/06: Arsenal 1-0 Villarreal Highbury bids farewell to CL nights

Kolo Toure’s first-half strike was enough to seal a 1-0 win against Villarreal in the semi-finals of the Champions League, in a game that saw a squirrel famously invade the field of play.

It was also Arsenal’s final European fixture at Highbury, so the victory was a fitting farewell to the historic stadium.

Wenger’s men went on to reach the Champions League final after holding the Spaniards to a goalless draw in the second leg at El Madrigal.

21 2002/03: PSV 0-4 Arsenal Gilberto and Arsenal thrash PSV

Arsenal secured a thumping 4-0 away victory against PSV in the group stages of the 2002/03 competition. Gilberto Silva broke the record for the fastest Champions League goal after netting inside 21 seconds.

Thierry Henry scored a late brace and Freddie Ljungberg also found himself on the scoresheet to complete the demolition job in the Netherlands.

Dennis Bergkamp also played in his first European away game in two years.

20 2013/14: Arsenal 2-0 Napoli Mesut Özil truly arrives

The summer of 2013 saw Arsenal obliterate their transfer record to sign Real Madrid playmaker Mesut Özil for a whopping £42.4m.

The German’s first goal in Arsenal colours came in their Champions League opener against Napoli as he beautifully caressed home a side-footed effort from just inside the box.

Özil scored seven goals whilst laying on 14 assists in his debut campaign in north London, so not bad going…

19 2024/25: PSV 1-7 Arsenal Gunners enjoy another great night in Eindhoven

Arsenal’s placing in the revamped Champions League group phase meant a last-16 tie against PSV, who had beaten Liverpool and Juventus on their way to sealing their own knockout stage berth.

But those hoping for a close game were quickly disappointed, as the Gunners raced out of the blocks to lead 3-0 inside 31 minutes.

Arsenal didn’t take their foot off the gas in the second half, putting another four past their opponents to make the second leg a formality. It was their biggest away victory in the Champions League.

The 11 biggest wins in the knockout stages of the Champions League

Arsenal recently joined a list of the best team performances in Champions League history after their 7-1 win against PSV.

ByStephan Georgiou Mar 5, 2025 18 2001/02: Arsenal 4-1 Bayer Leverkusen Eventual finalists played off the park

Arsenal played the would-be runners-up Bayer Leverkusen off the park as the French trio of Robert Pires, Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira all got themselves on the scoresheet.

But it was the Dutchman Bergkamp who scored the pick of the goals as he turned his man on the edge of the area and cheekily dinked the ball over the helpless Hans-Jörg Butt.

Despite a dazzling display by the Gunners, they were dumped out of the competition in the second group phase after finishing third.

17 2007/08: Arsenal 7-0 Slavia Prague Gunners turn on style against Slavia

Wenger’s men completely dominated their Czech opponents as they recorded the club’s biggest-ever Champions League victory. The fluidity of the play was a joy to watch, and some of the goals scored were out of this world.

The Gunners came second to Sevilla in their group that year and reached the last eight of the competition before suffering a 5-3 aggregate defeat by Liverpool. A cruel exit for the north Londoners.

Football purists will certainly enjoy watching this highlight reel below.

16 2005/06: Arsenal 0-0 Real Madrid Gunners hold Real at Highbury to complete epic victory

After sealing a historic 1-0 win at the Santiago Bernabeu, Arsenal still had to fend off Real Madrid on their own patch to seal a quarter-final place back in 2006.

In an even game, the Gunners held their own against their fancied opponents once again, with Thierry Henry mesmeric as ever as Arsene Wenger’s side held on.

Madrid came closest when Raul was extraordinarily denied by Jens Lehmann with the goal at his mercy.

Aston Villa have opened direct transfer talks with one player over joining Unai Emery next season, according to reports, as the Premier League top five contenders attempt to build upon another impressive campaign.

Aston Villa seal vital win over Tottenham in Champions League race

Nerves were rife throughout Villa Park in their crunch encounter against Tottenham on Friday night, before their opening goal 30 minutes from full-time, with defender Ezri Konsa breaking the deadlock before Boubacar Kamara doubled their advantage.

Monchi now leading Aston Villa charge to sign "exciting" Serie A midfielder

Monchi is reportedly a fan of the Argentine midfielder.

ByTom Cunningham May 16, 2025

Villa eventually ran out 2-0 victors over Ange Postecoglou’s side and cemented a crucial win in their chase for Champions League qualification.

The result means Emery’s side are still right in the thick of it, as they contend for a top five finish heading into the Premier League final matchday, and it is shaping up to be a dramatic last game with six teams involved in the battle for Europe.

2. Arsenal

68

3. Newcastle United

66

4. Chelsea

66

5. Aston Villa

66

6. Man City

65

7. Nottingham Forest

62

Emery, speaking after their victory against struggling Spurs, heaped praise on his players for making their home ground a serious fortress.

“I’m very grateful for the supporters,” Emery said. “Here, we are feeling strong and we’re feeling comfortable. We only lost one match here in the Premier League, the first match against Arsenal. Progressively, we were getting better. Of course, we drew some matches in the way, and now we are missing some points from those moments, but we have to accept it.

“We have to accept the 37 matches we’ve played being consistent, more or less, and getting the moment we are in now, feeling good and in our best moment. We’re achieving the challenges we are facing. We enjoyed in the FA Cup and in Carabao Cup, but mostly our moment in the Champions League.

“The Premier League is the most important competition we are facing because through it we are getting again our main objective, and the objective is to be in Europe.

“We are in Europe next year, but we are in the running for the Champions League positions, and we can have chances in the last match in Manchester to get it.”

Aston Villa open talks with Axel Disasi over joining next season

The result of their Champions League chase will have direct effects on their recruitment plans off the field, but that hasn’t stopped NSWE and Monchi from making moves behind-the-scenes.

Chelsea loanee Axel Disasi could remain beyond 2024/2025, with the Frenchman very highly-rated by Emery, his coaching staff and Villa’s transfer chiefs.

That is according to Foot Mercato, who state that Villa have already opened talks with Disasi over joining them next season.

The 27-year-old cost Chelsea £39 million to sign from Monaco in 2023, and Fabrizio Romano recently claimed that they’re keen to sell him for profit this summer. It is unclear how much Villa would be willing to pay to keep Disasi in the Midlands, but he could be a significant addition.

The defender has been called a “leader” at times, and his experience at the top level could be invaluable for Emery.

It was another semi-final defeat on Wednesday night for Arsenal and, as a result, another season that’ll end trophyless.

It was always going to be a tough challenge for Mikel Arteta’s side to overturn their first-leg defeat away to Paris Saint-Germain, but to lose 2-1 on the night just makes it all the more painful.

Moreover, while the visitors started the first half pretty well, they soon faded, and while they played with some real heart, a number of players just didn’t perform well enough.

One of those was Thomas Partey, who picked up a 3/10 match rating from Alex Turk of the Express, and while there was talk of a contract renewal, there have also been links to a certain international who could join this summer and send him packing.

Arsenal transfer news

Before getting to the player in question, it is worth taking a look at some of the other midfield stars Arsenal have been linked with in recent weeks, like Hugo Larsson and Eduardo Camavinga.

Transfer Focus

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

The former is still only 20 years old but has already become an established starter at Eintracht Frankfurt and could reportedly cost up to £51m, while the latter was sent off against the Gunners in the first leg of Real Madrid’s Champions League quarter-final with the club, but with a release clause of £1bn, who knows how much he’d cost.

Fortunately, another international midfielder heavily linked with the North Londoners has a far more reasonable release clause and could be the ideal Partey replacement: Martin Zubimendi.

Yes, according to a recent report from Spain, Arsenal are still incredibly keen on signing the Real Sociedad star this summer, with Arteta making him a ‘top reinforcement priority.’

While interest from Real is far from ideal, reports from elsewhere claiming the Spaniard has a release clause worth £51m could and should make signing him far more straightforward for the North Londoners.

It might still be a lot of money, but Zubimendi has proven his ability over several years now, and as he could be the perfect Partey replacement, Arsenal should do all they can to bring him to N5.

How Zubimendi compares to Partey

So then, if Arsenal are able to sign Zubimendi this summer, there is no doubt he’d come in and play the position Partey has this season, but how does he stack up to the veteran?

Is he good enough to send him packing in the summer without a new contract?

Well, given their position on the pitch and what their primary roles are, their raw output is not all that important.

Instead, the best way to better understand how they truly stack up against one another is to look under the hood at their relevant underlying numbers.

When doing this, it’s evident that while the former Atlético Madrid star does have the advantage in some areas, the bread and butter of a number six, the defensive work, is done far better by the San Sebastian-born star.

Progressive Carries

1.14

1.14

Progressive Passes

5.92

6.09

Passing Accuracy

83.2%

87.3%

Completed Long Passes

3.55

3.02

Blocked Shots

0.54

0.25

Blocked Passes

0.77

0.64

Interceptions

1.20

1.14

Clearances

2.47

1.64

Errors Leading to a Shot

0.10

0.14

Fouls

1.40

1.43

Ball Recoveries

4.38

4.38

Aerial Duels Won

1.67

0.93

Aerial Duel Win %

61.7%

54.2%

For example, the “world-class” defensive midfielder, as dubbed by former teammate Kieran Tierney, comes out on top in essential metrics like blocked shots and passes, interceptions, aerial duels won, clearances made, and he even makes fewer mistakes that lead to a shot, all per 90.

On top of this statistical advantage, the “elite” international, as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, is also five and a half years the Ghanaian’s junior and has a far healthier injury record.

For example, across his entire career, the Basque star has missed just ten games for club and country, whereas the Gunners’ number five has missed a staggering 88, so no matter how available he’s been this year, you can never truly rely on him in the long run.

Ultimately, from his defensive output to his availability and age, it’s clear that Zubimendi would be the perfect player to come in and replace Partey this summer, in turn making a new contract for the 31-year-old redundant.

Arsenal line up move for PSG star who'd be a big upgrade on Martinelli

The incredibly entertaining international is just what Arsenal need this summer.

ByJack Salveson Holmes May 8, 2025

Manchester United could only secure a 2-2 draw with French side Lyon in the Europa League last night, with Ruben Amorim’s side unfortunate not to come away the victors.

Goals from Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee could’ve secured all three points for the Red Devils but were denied the win by a late strike from the hosts in stoppage time.

Thiago Almada and Rayan Cherki were on the scoresheet for the Ligue 1 outfit, with goalkeeper Andre Onana at fault for both of the host’s efforts at the Groupama Stadium.

Whilst a win could’ve been on the cards after edging ahead with just a couple of minutes to go, Amorim’s men have the chance to secure qualification at Old Trafford next Thursday.

Despite their failure to return to home soil with an advantage, numerous players managed to impress, certainly securing their place in the side for the second leg next week.

Man Utd’s star performers against Lyon

Wing-back Patrick Dorgu once again demonstrated that he’s been a superb winter addition to the United first-team, impressing once more in the draw last night.

The 20-year-old completed 100% of the crosses he’s attempted, whilst also achieving an 88% pass completion rate along with a 100% success rate in tackles and aerial duels won – having a huge impact at both ends.

Midfielder Bruno Fernandes has been the shining light in what has been a dismal season for the club, often being the go-to man in terms of goal contributions within the final third.

Last night was no different for the Portuguese international, registering the assist for Zirkzee’s effort, stretching his lead as the Europa League’s highest contributor in terms of goals and assists.

However, despite the showing of the 30-year-old, one other player managed to impress within Amorim’s side – arguably becoming as important as the talent in recent months.

The player who’s becoming as important as Bruno for United

As previously mentioned, Fernandes has thrived this year despite United’s lowly league standing – notching 31 combined goals and assists across all competitions.

It’s unthinkable to imagine where the Red Devils would be without him in 2024/25, undoubtedly the key reason as to why they still have an opportunity to end the season as Europa League winners.

However, if they are to achieve such a feat, he won’t be able to do it alone, with other first team members needing to step up to the occasion and push the side in the right direction.

Centre-back Yoro has done just that over the last couple of months, cementing his place within the backline upon his return to action after a long injury lay-off.

His showing against Lyon last night was yet another one to be proud of, catching the eye at both ends of the pitch despite his defensive position.

The 19-year-old managed to net his first goal for the club during the draw, putting the side level after Onana’s mistake from Almada’s free-kick in the first half.

However, he also starred with his ball-playing, notching a total of 64 touches, and completing 50 passes at a completion rate of 93% – highlighting his composure on the ball.

Minutes played

90

Touches

64

Passes completed

50/54 (93%)

Goals scored

1

Tackles won

1/1 (100%)

Ground duels won

2/4 (50%)

Interceptions made

1

He also managed to impress at the back, winning 100% of the tackles he entered, whilst also managing to win two ground duels – thriving despite the side conceding twice.

As a result of his showing, Yoro was handed an 8/10 match rating by Manchester Evening News journalist Samuel Luckhurst – showcasing how impressive he was in France last night.

After such a display, it’s safe to say the Frenchman has managed to cement his place as a regular starter at the heart of the backline, with the defence needing to be built around him this summer.

Whilst Bruno has been the star in attacking areas of late, there’s no denying that Yoro has proven he’s capable of being a key player in the United rebuild, having the potential to improve further given his tender age.

Man Utd chase £50m Rashford & Elanga hybrid who's 'one of the best in PL'

Man Utd are seeking potential alternatives to Matheus Cunha this summer

ByRobbie Walls Apr 10, 2025

Celtic provided the perfect response to their 3-2 defeat to their rivals before the international break with a 3-0 win over Hearts at Parkhead on Saturday.

The Hoops had allowed their lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership table to be cut down to 13 points by losing to Rangers, but immediately bounced back with a convincing win over the Jam Tarts.

Daizen Maeda took his tally for the season to 30 goals in all competitions for the Bhoys with his two strikes against Hearts, whilst Jota added another goal to his collection since his return to Parkhead in the January transfer window.

Whilst many will focus on the attacking talent that was on display, as Jota and Maeda stole the headlines with their goals, the presence of Callum McGregor in the middle of the park was equally as important.

Why Callum McGregor's performance was important for Celtic

The retired Scotland international missed the 3-2 defeat to Rangers before the break through injury and returned to show the Hoops what they missed with a sublime display in midfield.

Celtic’s captain lined up alongside Reo Hatate and Arne Engels in the midfield three against Hearts on Saturday and stood out as the star performer in that area of the pitch.

Pass accuracy

89%

81%

99%

Passes completed

59

34

66

Key passes

1

0

2

Big chances created

0

0

1

Tackles + interceptions

0

1

2

Dribbled past

1x

0x

0x

As you can see in the table above, McGregor outperformed his positional peers in the match with his exceptional use of the ball and his reliability defensively.

This illustrates why his display was so important for Brendan Rodgers against Hearts because it highlights the quality he brings in and out of possession.

The left-footed star provides a metronomic presence at the base of the midfield for Celtic with his ability to complete passes efficiently under pressure, completing 94% of his passes overall in the division this season.

McGregor, who completes 73 passes per game on average, can control games for the Hoops by dictating the tempo of matches with his passing quality, whilst also frustrating opposition teams because of his press resistance on the ball, forcing them to drop back deeper.

This is part of the reason why Celtic struggled without their captain when they faced Rangers at Parkhead before the break, as Engels is not best suited to that role as the number six.

Why Arne Engels struggled against Rangers

The former Augsburg star started at the base of the midfield, with Luke McCowan and Hatate in the number eight positions, and struggled against the Gers.

Engels is usually tasked with playing as one of the more advanced midfielders, looking to score and create goals, but had to step up in a deeper role against Rangers because of his captain’s injury.

Pass accuracy

88%

94%

Touches

76

89.1

Passes

51

73.2

Ground duel success rate

20%

59%

Possession lost

14x

7.2x

Tackles + interceptions

0

1.7

As you can see in the table above, the Belgium international failed to live up to the standards that the skipper has set for that position in or out of possession, losing the ball far too frequently and offering little protection to the back four.

The 21-year-old starlet should not be expected to be as effective in that role, though, because he is an attack-minded player who has a future as a number eight for Celtic, rather than as a deep-lying conductor of play.

Engels has racked up ten goals and 12 assists in all competitions for the Scottish giants this term, which shows that he has excelled at his natural game – scoring and creating goals.

The former Bundesliga whiz is not the long-term successor to McGregor, because that is not his natural game, and that is why he struggled in the game against Rangers before the break.

In The Pipeline

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

Rodgers, though, may have already unearthed his next version of the Celtic captain by bringing 19-year-old academy starlet Jude Bonnar into the first-team group.

Why Jude Bonnar could be the next Callum McGregor

The teenage dynamo has been in the matchday squad on five occasions in all competitions since the start of February, and got ten minutes off the bench in a 5-1 win over Aberdeen in the Premiership.

That ten-minute cameo, in which the Scotland U21 international completed all four of his attempted passes, was his first-team debut for the Hoops and the manager spoke to his suitability for the team after the match.

Rodgers told the Daily Record: “He’s got a good profile and fits how we want to play. So that is a nice little taster for him.”

This suggests that the Northern Irish boss sees potential in Bonnar and believes that the teenage talent has the technical skills and know-how to suit the way that his team lines up, with a number six and two eights in a midfield three.

The B team star, whose ability was described as “unbelievable” by former coach Alan McGrillen, spoke to Celtic TV after the game and admitted that he looks up to McGregor as a role model, because of how he acts on and off the pitch every day.

Bonnar has already shown a tiny glimpse of his metronomic qualities, completing 100% of his passes in his cameo against Aberdeen, and Rodgers could look to help him develop and refine that ability to mould him into the new version of McGregor in the future.

The Scottish youngster has also shown the potential to offer a goal threat, as the captain has with eight goals in 28 league matches this term, with a return of ten goals in 46 B team games.

Celtic gem was "the next Van Dijk" but Postecoglou sold him for just £1m

The former Celtic star was described as “the next Van Dijk” by his former manager.

ByDan Emery Apr 3, 2025

This is only the start of the road for Bonnar, though, and there is plenty more time left for him to progress as a player and forge his own way in the game, hopefully at Celtic.

The very early signs, however, are that the potential is there for him to develop into McGregor 2.0 for Rodgers as a composed and controlling midfield star who can also provide a goal threat.

Tottenham Hotspur and chairman Daniel Levy are believed to be changing their minds about selling a star player this summer, with La Liga giants Real Madrid also holding internal talks over a potential deal for him.

Tottenham stars attracting interest ahead of this summer

Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou, if he is indeed still in the job by next season, will likely have to contend with elite clubs attempting to poach his key squad members this summer.

52-year-old holds talks with Levy to join Tottenham as "rich offer" readied

The Lilywhites chairman personally met with him yesterday.

ByEmilio Galantini Mar 28, 2025

The Lilywhites, according to TEAMtalk, are mindful of AC Milan and Atlético Madrid’s serious interest in midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur as one example. Both European heavyweights are apparently considering a swoop for the Uruguay international this summer, and Spurs are set to open formal new contract talks with Bentancur as they look to stave them off.

Chelsea (away)

April 3rd

Southampton (home)

April 6th

Wolves (away)

April 13th

Nottingham Forest (home)

April 21st

Liverpool (away)

April 27th

The £75,000-per-week ace’s contract expires in 2026, meaning time is running out for Tottenham to tie him down with fresh terms, and if they can’t, then a sale this summer could be a real possibility.

Meanwhile, there have even been suggestions that Bayern Munich are weighing up a surprise move for Son Heung-min this summer. Tottenham recently triggered the one-year extension clause in his contract, meaning he won’t be leaving until next year, but Bayern could apparently try and tempt Levy into an early transfer.

A lot of speculation has also surrounded star centre-back Cristian Romero and his long-term future at N17, with Atlético also said to be expressing an interest in the Argentine World Cup-winner alongside Bentancur.

Romero is apparently prepared to leave Tottenham this summer as well, following the club’s dismal 2024/2025, but Atlético are not the player’s only temptation.

Tottenham stance on selling Cristian Romero as Real Madrid eye move

According to GiveMeSport, Diego Simeone’s arch rivals Real are also eyeing up a move for the South American. The Galacticos are widely rumoured to be on the hunt for a big-name central defender this summer, and Romero is on their list of star-studded targets.

The outlet reports that Tottenham are now tempted to sell Romero, following a significant U-turn behind-the-scenes, and Real have held internal talks over a swoop for the 26-year-old.

While the club have relaxed their stance over an exit deal for him, Spurs have most recently demanded £60 million to let go of Romero, and Atlético in particular are set to fall short as things stand.

Simeone’s side want to open talks over a transfer worth £33 million, but this is set to fall short of Levy’s demands. While Real haven’t yet made contact with Tottenham or Romero’s camp, there is a distinct possibility they could do, if they decide he is indeed the right man to bolster their backline.

Arsenal came into this season hopeful of getting their hands on the Premier League title at the third time of asking, but unfortunately, that now seems incredibly unlikely.

Mikel Arteta’s side have not been the same team that looked almost unstoppable last year, and while injuries have undoubtedly played a part in that, some of the team’s stars just haven’t performed well enough.

Martin Odegaard, Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard, for example, have all left a lot to be desired this year, with the latter only amassing a total of 13 goal involvements in 43 games, compared to the 19 he managed in 46 games last season.

However, it’s not all been doom and gloom, as some players have stepped up for Arteta in a big way, including Myles Lewis-Skelly, who’s now a part of Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad.

Why Lewis-Skelly deserved his England call-up

At the start of the season, you’d be hard-pressed to find a non-Arsenal fan who knew who Lewis-Skelly was, and yet, seven months later, the 18-year-old is one of the most talked-about youngsters in the country and is a part of the senior England squad.

It’s certainly been a rapid rise for the Islington-born gem, but it’s one that is entirely deserved, as despite being so young, the exceptional talent has looked completely at home in the senior game.

For example, the Hale End star has made 26 first-team appearances this season, 16 of which have been starts, and of late, it would be fair to say he’s overtaken summer signing Riccardo Calafiori as the manager’s go-to left-back, despite the fact that his natural position is in central and defensive midfield.

What makes the youngster so impressive is the fact that he’s unfazed by everything, can outmuscle far more experienced players and, on top of having a sensational left foot on him, he’s unafraid to have a go at goal himself, as we saw in the game against Manchester City.

Finally, it’s not just on the pitch where the 18-year-old’s stock has risen according to Transfermarkt, he is now worth around €28m, which comes out to around £23.5m and is a sensational price tag for someone who only made his first team debut this season.

In all, Lewis-Skelly looks set to be a star for Arsenal and England for years to come, but even then, he’s worth considerably less than one of his teammates who didn’t get a call-up.

The Arsenal star worth millions more than Lewis-Skelly

When it comes to the other clear breakout star for Arsenal this season, you don’t need to look any further than fellow Hale Ender Ethan Nwaneri.

The 17-year-old phenomenon has already established himself as one of the team’s most dangerous attackers, which is reflected in his Transfermarkt valuation of €55m, which is about £46.2m.

That means he is now worth around £22.7m more than Lewis-Skelly and about £21m more than fellow winger Trossard, who has seen his valuation drop to €30m – £25.2m – this season.

Now, that is an extraordinary price tag for someone so young, but just like his academy teammate, the Enfield-born dynamo has more than proven his worth this season.

For example, in just 29 first-team appearances, totalling 1087 minutes, the often “unplayable” attacker, as dubbed by Jack Wilshere, has scored eight goals and provided one assist.

Appearances

29

Minutes

1087′

Goals

8

Assists

1

Goal Involvements per Match

0.31

Minutes per Goal Involvement

120.77′

That means the incredible talent is averaging a goal involvement every 3.22 games or every 120.77 minutes.

Moreover, the “special” number 53, as dubbed by respected football analyst Ben Mattinson, isn’t just scoring simple tap-ins; he’s been firing them in from range, dribbling past opponents and proving that he can be a genuine threat anywhere near the opposition’s penalty area.

Ultimately, while this season has not gone to plan, Arsenal have at least found two potentially world-class talents in Lewis-Skelly and Nwaneri, who, in years to come, could each be worth a king’s ransom.

Worth £36m more than Guimaraes: Arsenal struck gold with "world-class" star

The exceptional big-money star is one of Arsenal’s best players.

2 ByJack Salveson Holmes Mar 18, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur have laid some groundwork over potentially re-signing a former Spurs player who’s also a transfer target for West Ham, with chairman Daniel Levy and technical director Johan Lange seemingly weighing up the possibility of a reunion at N17.

Tottenham slump to 1-0 Europa League defeat at AZ Alkmaar

Ange Postecoglou watched on from the sidelines as Spurs slumped to another poor away defeat in Europe on Thursday evening.

£35m Premier League forward wants to join Tottenham after talks

Spurs are convinced.

ByEmilio Galantini Mar 6, 2025

The travelling side couldn’t force AZ Alkmaar’s keeper into any real saves over their lacklustre 90 minutes abroad, with striker Dominic Solanke also picking up a late knock on what was a night to forget for Tottenham, as they fell to a 1-0 defeat in the first leg of their Europa League last 16 tie.

“Yeah, it wasn’t great from us tonight,” said Postecoglou on Tottenham’s 1-0 defeat to AZ.

“Pretty much all facets of the game. We didn’t really get to grips with any part of the game. We struggled to gain any momentum with the ball, we weren’t as aggressive as we needed to be without the ball.

“It was a tricky surface but having said that we kind of knew that from yesterday and yeah we just didn’t tackle the challenges we had out there in a real positive way. That allowed AZ to get into a rhythm, which when you’re playing away from home, it is difficult to stem the tide.

Bournemouth (home)

March 9th

Fulham (away)

March 16th

Chelsea (away)

April 2nd

Southampton (home)

April 5th

Wolves (away)

April 12th

“I don’t think it is going out there and not trying, but like I said we didn’t really come to grips and have the right mindset to tackle an away fixture in Europe. It is always tough, and we obviously conceded the goal, which was a disappointing set of events but even after that we didn’t really settle down into the game at all. You are going to face some pressure when you play away from home in Europe and weather the storm and get to grips with it, but we never really did, so that was a disappointment.”

A good Europa League run is Spurs’ only real opportunity to make anything of this disappointing campaign, so the pressure is on Postecoglou to turn this first leg deficit around.

Off the field, Tottenham are planning for next season already in terms of transfers. Spurs are believed to be targeting new full-backs, with Flamengo defender Wesley Franca among their options as alternatives to the likes of Pedro Porro, Destiny Udogie and the in-form Djed Spence.

Tottenham lay groundwork over re-signing West Ham target Dennis Cirkin

According to journalist Graeme Bailey, the Lilywhites could even turn to an ex-player of theirs to reinforce the left-back area – Sunderland defender Dennis Cirkin.

The 22-year-old left Spurs in 2021 to join the Black Cats for an undisclosed fee (BBC), and he’s since gone on to become a crucial player for Regis Le Bris’ side as they chase promotion back to the Premier League.

Cirkin is currently among their top five best-performers in the Championship by average match rating, according to WhoScored, and his performances are attracting attention from elite English sides – including Tottenham.

According to Bailey, Tottenham have been doing work on re-signing Cirkin, but he’s also a target for a plethora of London rivals like West Ham.

“Keep a close eye on Cirkin,” said Bailey to Sunderland AFC News.

“I am told a lot of Premier League clubs have been doing work on him. Chelsea, Tottenham, Crystal Palace, West Ham, Everton and Leeds – he is an outstanding prospect.”

Only Enzo Le Fee has averaged more tackles per 90 for Sunderland than Cirkin, while the Englishman sits joint-top for their highest number of interceptions per game (WhoScored). Cirkin also has three goals and two assists to his name from 31 Championship appearances.

Nottingham Forest chiefs are switching their attentions to the summer already, as they are now monitoring a “big-name” player in Italy, according to a recent report.

Nottingham Forest prepare for Ipswich in FA Cup

The Reds are back in action on Monday as they welcome Ipswich Town to the City Ground as they look to book their place in the final eight of the FA Cup. Forest are still firmly in the race for a top four finish this season, but with no win in their last three, their lead over the teams behind them has been shortened and a domestic cup may become their best route into Europe.

Nottingham Forest plotting summer move to sign "superb" £17m Serie A winner

He’s scored more goals than Hudson-Odoi this season…

1 ByTom Cunningham Mar 1, 2025

Nuno has said that he is going to need all his players between now and the end of the campaign if they are to achieve their goal of qualifying for continental competition. “We are going to need all of the players. Nobody should disconnect, and we try to make sure that everybody is involved.

“There’s no other way. Players must be patient, responsible, and respectful for who’s playing.”

But while the boss is focusing on his current squad, Forest’s recruitement chiefs are beginning to look ahead to the summer, as Tuttosport state that they are now plotting a move to sign Alexis Saelemaekers from AC Milan.

Newcastle United are also interested in signing the attacking midfielder, who is said to be valued at £17 million. Nuno’s side will expect to have an edge in the race if they secure Champions League football for next season.

Nottingham Forest monitoring "big-name" £35m ace

As well as looking in Serie A for Saelemaekers, Nottingham Forest are also keeping a close eye on Inter Milan midfielder Davide Frattesi, who looks set to leave the Italian champions, according to ESPN.

The report states that Forest look to be in the market for a new midfielder for next season, and Frattesi, who won Serie A last season, has emerged on their radar. The 25-year-old was signed for around £20 million, and it is believed that Inter are willing to let him leave San Siro for a fee of £35 million.

However, Forest are not alone in their pursuit, as it’s been reported that Tottenham Hotspur have already made a bid to Inter to sign Frattesi. The Italy international, who has been dubbed a “big-name” player in Simone Inzaghi’s squad, joined Inter first on loan from Sassuolo before joining on a permanent basis in July last year.

Apps

74

Starts

21

Goals

12

Assists

9

Since joining the Serie A champions, Frattesi has been a key player for Inzaghi, playing 42 times in all competitions last season. However, he only managed 11 starts in those games, and that has continued into this campaign, starting 10 of the 32 games he has played overall.

His lack of starts means Frattesi is also probably open to a move elsewhere, and Forest could represent a good opportunity, especially if they secure Champions League football. His potential arrival would see him compete with the likes of Elliot Anderson, Danilo, Nicolas Dominquez and Ryan Yates for a starting spot in that midfield two.

The January transfer window officially slammed shut on Monday night and it ended with one new signing added to the Celtic squad in the form of Jeffrey Schlupp.

Brendan Rodgers swooped to bring the 32-year-old star in on loan from Premier League side Crystal Palace until the end of the season to bolster his options in midfield and at left-back.

The Ghana international came off the bench to make his debut for the Hoops in their 6-0 win over Dundee at Parkhead in the Scottish Premiership on Wednesday night.

Celtic will, now, be hoping that the former Premier League title-winner will prove to be an excellent addition to the group as they go in search of more pieces of silverware in the second half of the season.

It was not a perfect deadline day, though, as some supporters may have been left frustrated by the lack of a striker, after Kyogo Furuhashi moved on from Paradise.

Ligue 1 side Rennes swooped in to sign the Japan international on a permanent deal last month, and the Hoops opted against replacing him in the transfer window, despite interest in Mathias Kvistgaarden.

Celtic's failed pursuit of Mathias Kvistgaarden

The Scottish giants were interested in a deal to sign the Denmark U21 international from Superliga side Brondby in the January transfer window, but they were unable to strike an agreement to bring him to Parkhead.

It was reported that the two teams were in talks over a potential deal for the 22-year-old centre-forward, but those discussions reached an impasse over their respective valuations of the striker.

Brondby reportedly valued their star forward at a whopping £10m and Celtic seemingly decided that they were not willing to spend that kind of money on the marksman on deadline day, or before the last day of the window.

It would be understandable if any Hoops fans have been left frustrated by that because Kvistgaarden has been in terrific form in the Superliga this season.

The Danish sensation produced ten goals and seven assists in 28 appearances in all competitions for Brondby in the 2023/24 campaign, and has stepped his game up this time around.

Appearances

15

Goals

10

Big chances missed

6

Conversion rate

26%

Assists

4

As you can see in the table above, Kvistgaarden has been in lethal form in the Superliga this season, with ten goals in 15 appearances, and has offered his team creativity at the top end of the pitch.

These statistics show that the £10m-rated Celtic target had the potential to arrive at Parkhead as a clinical, given his lack of ‘big chances’ missed, striker who can also create chances for his teammates to find the back of the net.

However, Rodgers may be able to unearth his own version of Kvistgaarden by offeringJohnny Kenny the chance to develop into a first-team regular in the second half of this season.

Johnny Kenny's form for Shamrock Rovers

The Ireland U21 international spent the 2023 and the 2024 campaigns on loan with Shamrock Rovers in his home country and it went almost as well as Celtic could have hoped for.

In the 2023 season, the then-teenager racked up five goals and four assists in 30 appearances in the Premier Division for the Irish side, which was a solid, but unspectacular, return in front of goal.

The young marksman returned to Shamrock Rovers for the 2024 campaign and improved his output in the final third with a return of 13 goals and two assists in 18 starts in the Premier Division.

Kenny scored two goals in three Champions League qualifiers, including the goal above, but that was not enough to prevent the team only qualifying for the Conference League.

Appearances

6

xG

3.78

Goals

5

Big chances created

1

Assists

1

As you can see in the table above, the 21-year-old striker was on fire in Europe for Shamrock Rovers, showcasing his clinical finishing by overperforming against his Expected Goals tally.

Overall, Kenny scored 20 goals in 27 starts across the Premier Division, the Conference League, and the Champions League qualifiers in 2024 for the Irish team, which shows that the potential is there for him to be a reliable goalscorer at senior level.

What should happen next for Johnny Kenny

Celtic brought him back to the club at the start of January and integrated him into first-team training, at which point Idah and Kyogo were both there and ahead of him in the pecking order.

In The Pipeline

Now that the Japan international has been sold to Rennes and the Hoops failed to sign Kvistgaarden from Brondby, Kenny is the second-choice centre-forward behind Idah at this moment in time.

Rodgers should, now, utilise Kenny as the back-up to the Ireland international in the second half of the season and offer him plenty of chances, whether that be off the bench or as a starter when the ex-Norwich man needs a rest, to allow him to gain valuable experience in a Celtic shirt.

This next three or four months should be used as time for the youngster to adapt to life in the Premiership and as a first-team player for Celtic, hopefully providing him with the experience required to kick on and hit the ground running next season.

Appearances

2

Minutes played

35

Goals

0

Big chances created

1

Assists

1

Dribbles completed

1/2

As you can see in the table above, Kenny has already made two substitute appearances for the Hoops in the Scottish top-flight and registered his first goal contribution with an assist for Luke McCowan against Ross County last month.

After that moment, the Celtic manager described him as “absolutely brilliant” and claimed that the young attacker helped to energise the match for the team.

It is now down to the Ireland U21 international to keep taking his chances when they come and to show Rodgers signs that his development is heading in the right direction, as it did during his two seasons with Shamrock Rovers.

86% duels won: Celtic ace has just rescued Lawwell's Deadline Day disaster

Celtic did not get what they wanted from their deadline day business on Monday.

ByDan Emery Feb 6, 2025

His form for Celtic and Shamrock Rovers suggest that the potential is there for him to be a Kvistgaarden-esque forward who can provide clinical finishing and creativity as a number nine, but it is now down to all parties to work hard to ensure that the potential is fulfilled at Parkhead.