‘Hunting him’: Thomas Muller makes Martin Odegaard & Arsenal claim after Bayern clash last night

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 30, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Arsenal are no longer in the Champions League this season, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t still inspiring others.

Bayern Munich, who recorded a 2-2 draw against Real Madrid in the first leg of their semi-final Champions League showdown on Tuesday night, were the ones who handed Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal an early exit.

This is despite the German giants enduring a time to forget on the domestic scene as their 11-year dominance has been ended by Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen.

Thomas Tuchel’s side have struggled in big ways, but it seems as though Arsenal have provided them with a lift, that’s according to Thomas Muller.

The German legend is a colourful character and he has been one of the best players in Europe over the last ten years.

His team’s performances this season would have hurt him the most, that’s why after losing to Leverkusen earlier this year, he let out a rallying cry.

Muller was part of the Bayern team that knocked out Arsenal and he was keen to highlight the ‘belief’ the London club have given his side in trying to progress to the final of the Champions League.

The two-time European Cup winner also name-checked two players – Martin Odegaard and Konrad Laimer. They faced off in an absorbing midfield battle over the two legs.

When trying to explain the mindset and feeling Bayern have now compared to months ago, Muller stated: ‘It (win over Arsenal) gave us the belief and I said this Konrad Laimer feeling when he is hunting Odegaard like a dog’, as he told CBS Sports on Paramount+ (30/04/24 at 10:10 pm).

Thomas Muller on Arsenal and Martin Odegaard

On what has changed at Bayern, since losing to Leverkusen, to give them the belief that they can get through to the Champions League final:

Muller responded: “The games and win over Arsenal gave us self-confidence.

“Not the team spirit when you go out and drink a beer together. It gave us the belief and I said this Konrad Laimer feeling when he is hunting Odegaard like a dog. Maybe you know this story. This kind of winning feeling gave us a little bit more belief in ourselves and to be a little bit more aggressive.

“In the last two or three weeks, we are in a good mood. We are playing better, not perfect, but we are playing better.”

Who will win the Champions League?

Bayern and Real played out a pulsating four-goal thriller in Bavaria and now attention will turn to the second leg in Madrid.

Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund will contest the other semi-final, as some big-name players are on show.

READ MORE: Director says Arsenal and Liverpool must pay over £50m for ‘unique’ midfielder

It wouldn’t be a surprise if the winner of the Ballon d’Or comes from who lifts the European Cup at Wembley.

Vinicius Jr, who netted a brace against Bayern, is certainly a contender, alongside Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham.

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Exclusive: Erik ten Hag’s current understanding of his Manchester United role next season

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 30, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Pressure continues to mount on Erik Ten Hag at Manchester United.

The Dutchman’s future is in doubt, as United’s new footballing department assesses the pros and cons of keeping the former Ajax boss.

HITC has previously revealed that whilst Sir Jim Ratcliffe remains a big fan of Ten Hag and fully appreciates many aspects of his management, including his ability to bring through youth players – a pillar of the way United want to work going forward.

However, it was always a caveat stipulated to Ten Hag during talks that the club’s form would have a major bearing on whether he had a future at the club.

Ten Hag does not know if he will remain in charge at Old Trafford

 HITC now understands that Ten Hag does not know if he will be Manchester United manager next season.

Sources have confirmed that Ten Hag has privately admitted that he does not know whether he will still be in charge beyond the end of this season, but that does indeed fit with the messages coming from the club’s hierarchy.

HITC has been told that INEOS sporting chief and new United board member Sir Dave Brailsford, who led the initial audit of footballing operations at Old Trafford, has delivered his recommendations to Sir Jim Ratcliffe – but the minority owner, believes that the club’s new footballing department should be the ones making the ultimate decision about the manager.

Although United still have not managed to finalise the appointment of Dan Ashworth as sporting director, they have secured his number two Jason Wilcox who has taken up his role as technical director and he is due for what are described as lengthy talks with Ten Hag in the coming weeks – which will also play a big part in the club’s decision over whether to stick with the Dutchman…or not.

Form is key for Ten Hag

United are battling to finish in the top-six and are in the FA Cup final but their form in recent weeks has been hugely disappointing.

It is the club’s form that has led to Ten Hag being unclear about his future this summer. HITC is told that ideally the club would have given Ten Hag this summer and the start of next season, whilst being part of the initial squad rebuild, but there is a real worry within the club’s hierarchy about the form that has been shown in recent weeks having won just once in their last six Premier League games.

United’s footballing department are doing their due diligence on potential successor’s to Ten Hag, but they insist that is normal to assess the market. HITC understands that Gareth Southgate and Graham Potter both have huge fans within the club, whilst intermediaries and agents have pushed the likes of Thomas Tuchel to them, but those talks with external candidates can only go so far, until they make a firm decision on Ten Hag – which could still be more than a month away.

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‘It’s a worry’: Tim Sherwood says £42m Tottenham star plays in a 'desperate' way after NLD defeat

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 30, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Tottenham Hotspur fans have every right to be raging after what they witnessed unfold on Sunday.

To think Ange Postecoglou had two weeks to prepare for the Arsenal game, yet they were 3-0 down by half-time, is baffling.

What’s even worse is that Tottenham’s issues this season have been pretty clear. They can’t defend from corners!

Yet, two of Arsenal’s goals came from corners and it well and truly killed off the team’s chances of getting anything from the match.

Cristian Romero and Son Heung-min might have brought the game to life after the break, but in truth, the north London derby was lost in the opening 45 minutes.

It’s frustrating for the fans because they have now provided Arsenal with a boost in their Premier League title hunt, whilst also damaging their own Champions League challenge.

Tim Sherwood thinks if David Raya didn’t gift Spurs a goal when he miss-kicked the ball straight at the on-rushing Romero, then they could have ended up losing the game by ‘four or five’, as he told Premier League Productions (29/04/24 at 5:25 pm).

Many were surprised that Tottenham’s £42 million signing was so far up the pitch because he was acting like a striker, and in the end, it paid off because he put off the Arsenal man.

But Sherwood also highlighted the form of Romero and how it is a ‘worry’ because he plays ‘desperate’ stuff at times.

Cristian Romero’s form

“It’s a worry, to me,” said Sherwood about how Romero is playing.

“It’s off-the-cuff. It’s desperate stuff. Yes, it comes off on a couple of occasions there (during the north London derby). But there is no plan to it. We are 3-0 down and he is going to do whatever he wants to do. If the goalkeeper, Raya, doesn’t make that mistake then they end up getting beat four or five. Raya gives the ball away, it gives the crowd a lift and the Tottenham players

“He (Romero) took it upon himself there. That’s just the freedom that Ange gives these players. Love it or loathe it. I like his character. Sometimes it can boil over. He isn’t someone I would trust fully, but I think he is a good player and one of the better ones they have.”

Will Tottenham bounce back?

There isn’t any room for Spurs to move here. They either bounce back or crash in a dramatic way.

After a small break, the games are now going to come thick and fast for the club, including another London derby against Chelsea on Thursday night.

READ MORE: Pundit backs Arsenal and Tottenham to target £60m duo Arteta ‘could do with’

Given Postecoglou’s record in London derbies this season, you don’t want to be seen losing another because it will just infuriate the fans even further.

Not only that, it will just further indicate that Champions League football will be heading to Villa Park because Unai Emery’s side have a seven-point lead, with Tottenham having two games in hand. 

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‘He enjoys being on the pitch’: Casemiro lauds 'excellent' player at Manchester United

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 29, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

There aren’t many positives for Manchester United to take out of the 2023/24 Premier League campaign.

The hope of securing Champions League football is out of the window, but the FA Cup can save matters.

If Manchester United beat Manchester City in the FA Cup final, then some of the dark days of this season will probably be worth it.

But overall, only very few players can hold their heads up high, and not even the trophy-laden and experienced Casemiro can do so.

The 32-year-old will admit that he hasn’t been anywhere near his best and, at times, looks the shadow of the player who won trophy after trophy at Real Madrid – Jamie Carragher says Man United were sold a player on the decline.

But that still doesn’t hide the fact that his knowledge, experience and know-how would be infectious to that Manchester United dressing room, especially the young players.

Kobbie Mainoo has been a standout for ten Hag, despite only turning 19 earlier this month and is proving to be one of the first names on the team sheet.

Casemiro lauded the rising midfielder and how he is ‘excellent’ when donning the colours of his boyhood club, as he told Premier League Productions (29/04/24 at 5:40 pm).

The Brazil international was keen to point out that ‘we can’t put too much pressure on these players’ as he also highlighted Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund.

All three have been shining lights for their struggling team and Casemiro gave his flowers to the new kid on the block.

Kobbie Mainoo at Manchester United

“A good player, an excellent player,” said Casemiro. “I can see that he enjoys being on the pitch. I look out for him because he needs it and we can’t put too much pressure on these players. So, I try to take some of that pressure off their shoulders because that’s the process in football and life. 

“I think speaking about Kobbie specifically, I think in the next three or four years, he’ll be one of the best midfielders in the Premier League. In time, not right now, with time. We can’t put that pressure on him now or on Garnacho, or Rasmus.

“No. Ultimately, they need to enjoy themselves. They need to go through this process and feel the fear of losing the ball, to push them to keep growing, to keep learning and to face up to it. Keep developing and keep working hard.”

England at Euro 2024

Many talk about the amount of football players are going through, well, it’s going to step up a level in the summer with two major tournaments in South America and Europe.

Euro 2024 in Germany is the one Mainoo will be hoping to be a part of after recently earning his maiden England call-up.

READ MORE: Exclusive: Ralf Rangnick has discussed signing two players he wanted at Manchester United for Bayern Munich 

It has been announced that managers can name 26-man squads, rather than 23, which increases Mainoo’s chances of getting picked.

You would think, at the very least, Gareth Southgate should select him, but you just never know with him because it wouldn’t be a surprise if he leaves the Old Trafford star at home.

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'I loved': Owen Hargreaves says Arsenal 25-year-old 'at his best when it's difficult' after NLD win

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 29, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Arsenal showcased great courage in their Premier League title charge by beating Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.

To play your bitter rivals so late on in the season and when you are pushing for ultimate glory, it’s never easy.

Last season, Arsenal beat Tottenham in their backyard, but they still proceeded to crumble in the title race weeks later and hand English football’s main crown to Manchester City.

At that time, William Saliba was injured, there was no Declan Rice or Kai Havertz, and the players were yet to experience the heartache of losing.

Fast forward to the present and you feel this Arsenal team have learnt their lesson following that 3-2 win.

At half-time, they were cruising. 3-0 up. Causing issues from corners and open play, with no answer from Ange Postecoglou’s men.

But, out of nowhere, David Raya gifted Tottenham a goal, before Rice gave away an out-of-character penalty and the last ten minutes proved to be very difficult for the away team.

Despite all of that, they still got through it and Owen Hargreaves was keen to point towards someone like Rice for helping them over the line, as he told Premier League Productions (29/04/24 at 2:05 pm).

The former midfielder shared that, after Son Heung-min scored his penalty, Rice was the one urging his team on and telling them to go again.

Compared to the previous campaign, Hargreaves believes that was a big difference, as well as the 25-year-old’s ability to be ‘at his best when it’s difficult’.

Declan Rice in the north London derby

“There was a shot of Declan Rice after the penalty went in and they were walking back to the middle of the pitch,” said Hargreaves.

“He was like ‘come on, let’s go’. Last season, I don’t think you would have seen that. Heads might have been a little bit down. That’s what Declan gives you, even though his personality. That’s what you need. We have all been there.

“You know your players when it’s difficult. I think Declan is at his best when it’s difficult. I loved the fact that the team bounced back and won that game because they have achieved so much this Arsenal team. They are in a different place. They are ready to take it if Manchester City slip-up.”

Arsenal’s Player of the Season

Is there going to be anybody else? Look, there have been many top performers for Arsenal this season.

Saliba and Gabriel have formed an outstanding partnership. It’s the best in the Premier League right now, without a doubt.

Ben White has, once again, proven to be an underrated player at right-back, Kai Havertz is proving to the world that it’s ‘£60 million down the drain’ and Bukayo Saka is having his best goalscoring season.

But you have to admit that Rice stands above them all and when the awards at Arsenal are handed out at the end of the season, you expect his name to top the list.

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'Unique footballer': Director says Arsenal and Liverpool must pay 'more than' £50m for midfielder

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 29, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Earlier this month, it emerged that, while a midfielder with admirers throughout the Premier League will be free to pursue a new challenge this summer, anyone keen on signing him would have to stump up a far larger bid than the £30 million one Napoli lodged in 2023.

Exactly how much more, however, was not explained.

Until now, that is.

HITC understands that title rivals Arsenal and Manchester City are both keen on Shakhtar Donetsk’s extremely high-rated – and highly coveted – Georgiy Sudakov. But they are not alone. Chelsea, Newcastle, West Ham United and Aston Villa are watching too, as are a Liverpool side who maybe need a little bit of inspiration to go alongside their midfield perspiration.

Sudakov is also on the radars of Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen, and confirmed recently that Juventus also made a move for him in a previous window.

And Darijo Srna, Shakhtar’s director of football, has now shone a light on the sort of offers the Ukrainian giants are waiting for.

Arsenal and Man City told to pay over £50 million

“Shakhtar’s president (Sergei Palkin) wants to get big money for Sudakov. If he wanted to get 40 to 45 million (euros), he would have already given him to Napoli,” Srna explains to Sport24.

“But Sudakov is a unique footballer. He does a crazy amount of work and has a head on his shoulders. There are not many such players in Europe. Sudakov will leave for a very large sum. I’m sure it’s more than 60 million euros.”

Or £51 million, if you like.

Of course, the struggles of Mykahylo Mudryk at Chelsea may have Sudakov’s growing throng of admirers concerned about the prospect of history repeating itself, but arguably the greatest footballer in Ukraine’s history has no such fears.

Georgiy Sudakov following Jude Bellingham’s lead

“Sudakov is a very interesting player. A dynamic football player who can play several roles,” Andriy Shevchenko, a Ballon D’Or winner with AC Milan, tells Tuttosport.

“I first called him up to the national team (when I was manager) three years ago. He is a great talent who can make significant progress if he goes to play in Serie A or the Premier League.”

A highly-technical attacking midfielder, Sudakov likens his game to that of Phil Foden and James Maddison, while admitting to having also taken inspiration from Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham.

He understands the importance of adding more goals to his game, too, although he is enjoying some impressive form in the final third. Sudakov recently took his tally to eight for the campaign.

“I would like to look to the future, that I have the opportunity to move to another team,” Sudakov tells Sport Ukraine. “However, now everyone is watching and talking only about those players who score goals and give assists. I give an example of (Jude) Bellingham.

“For my situation, goals and assists are very important.”

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Exclusive: Aston Villa and Tottenham eye £22m winger likened to Bale and 'close to Foden'

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 29, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Premier League giants Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United are watching Galatasaray star Baris Alper Yilmaz with one scout feeling he could be the ‘Turkish Valverde’.

With only four games remaining, Galatasaray are closing in on the Super Lig title, four points clear of Istanbul neighbours Fenerbahce after winning 30 of their 34 matches.

The stellar form of Baris Alper Yilmaz has been a big reason for Gala’s success in 2023/24, scoring six goals and providing nine assists while catching the eye of Aston Villa, Tottenham, Man United, AFC Bournemouth and Brighton and Hove Albion.

Scouts, HITC have been told, have been drawn to Yilmaz’s versatility. While there are some doubts about his ‘best position’. Yilmaz’s ability to perform impressively in a variety of different roles means he is not short of admirers. While seemingly a right-winger, first and foremost, the 23-year-old has also filled in at right-back, on the left and at centre-forward throughout the campaign.

Tottenham and Aston Villa eye Galatasaray star

One talentspotter has even drawn comparisons with Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde, the Uruguay international one of the most adaptable footballers in the game today. A quick, powerful runner, Yilmaz also seems to possess Valverde’s renowned athleticism, driving down the flank before pulling crosses back into the penalty area or going for goal himself.

Yilmaz set up one of Galatasaray’s goals during that famous 3-2 win at Old Trafford in the Champions League group stages, a performance which may have earned him a place on Man United’s wishlist.

Turkish publication Aksam back up our information about Aston Villa’s interest, while explaining that Galatasaray want around £22 million for the former Ankara Keciorengucu ace.

Likened to Gareth Bale and Phil Foden

“I compare Baris Alper Yilmaz to Gareth Bale in terms of strength. He has the ability to sprint 3-4 meters after eliminating the opponent with the ball,” former coach Ilker Puren tells GS Gazete, also drawing similarities between the Gala speedster and a certain Manchester City star.

“One day, he will definitely play in the Premier League because physics comes to the fore there. He has also improved his positional knowledge.

“The level he is at now is close to Phil Foden.”

Aston Villa’s interest may be with the likely departure of loanee Nicolo Zaniolo in mind, Unai Emery potentially in the market for another attacking midfielder.

Tottenham, meanwhile, are looking into the Turkish Super Lig for potential value-for-money signings. Ange Postecoglou’s team are also fans of Fenerbahce duo Ismail Yuksek and Ferdi Kadioglu.

Spurs are also facing uncertainty over the future of Timo Werner. They have the option to sign the RB Leipzig-owned forward for £15 million but we understand that Tottenham would prefer to extend his loan until the summer of 2025.

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Arne Slot tipped to bring £25m duo to Anfield, one is a 'Liverpool fan'

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 29, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Will Arne Slot take the Erik ten Hag route? Or will Liverpool, with former sporting director and renowned talenspotter Michael Edwards now back at Anfield in a new CEO of Football role, look a bit further afield for new signings at the start of the post-Jurgen Klopp era?

It would not all that surprising if the latter rings true.

Ten Hag bringing a series of former players with him to Manchester United – Andre Onana, Lisandro Martinez and Antony but also one-time Liverpool target Sofyan Amrabat too – was not just a classic case of a manager turning to those he knows and trusts, but also of a club operating without a top-class sporting director to seize control over recruitment.

Had Jason Wilcox started his job at Old Trafford in 2022 rather than in 2024, it is likely Man United would not have been quite so reliant on Ten Hag’s contact book.

With Edwards back at Anfield, then, it would be a surprise if Liverpool’s transfer policy under the seemingly-incoming Arne Slot would be quite so unimaginative.

Then again, there are certainly a few members of Feyenoord’s 2023 Eredivisie winning team who could come in very handy at Liverpool, former Netherlands international Marciano Vink tipping David Hancko and Lutsharel Geertruida to follow in Slot’s footstpes.

Liverpool expected to hire Feyenoord boss Arne Slot

“I think Liverpool could use a good defender,” Vink tells ESPN. “Then, I think of Geertruida and Hancko.

“(Joel) Matip is injured and players like Joe Gomez and Ibrahim Konate are on the bench. They now play with a glorified youth player (Jarell Quansah) next to (Virgil) Van Dijk.”

Vink maybe has a point, even if he’s a little harsh on Quansah. Matip is out of contract, while Konate’s performances have dipped alarmingly during a dreadful run of form which has scuppered Klopp’s hopes of a glorious end to his Anfield career.

Geertruida, Feyenoord’s vice-captain, was spotted watching Liverpool during Saturday’s 2-2 draw at West Ham. The versatile Dutchman, a rampaging powerhouse of a footballer with an impressive six goals to his name this term, is a right-back by trade but has also filled in at centre-half and on the left when required.

David Hancko is a Liverpool ‘fan’

Hancko, also valued at around £25 million, is an interesting case to say the least. The Slovakia international’s agent admitted back in January that Liverpool – as well as French champions Paris Saint-Germain – had shown an interest.

A left-footer, Hancko would likely be a long-term replacement for Van Dijk rather than a partner for a man who turns 33 in July. The former Sparta Prague man has made no secret of his admiration for The Reds’ number four, while admitting that he became a ‘Liverpool fan’ following that 2005 Champions League comeback against AC Milan.

“I probably watch the English Premier League the most, so (moving there) would be my dream,” Hancko told Slovakian publication Aktuality Sport. “And the club? My role model has always been (Manchester United legend) David Beckham, but I was most drawn to Liverpool. 

“It started with the 2005 Champions League final in Istanbul, which my parents let me watch until the end. I didn’t have to go to bed even though there was extra time! And then (Slovakian icon) Martin Skrtel came.

“Since then, I’ve been a Liverpool fan.”

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'That is not normal': One-time Arsenal scout makes claim about missing out on £110m title winner

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 29, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Arsenal have missed out on signing so many players over the years that it almost became a running joke under Arsene Wenger.

The Gunners enjoyed great times under Wenger but it’s easy to think about how it could have been even better.

Wenger claimed to have missed out on some enormous talents, including Gianluigi Buffon, Claude Makelele and Ronaldinho in the late 90’s and early 2000’s.

Other names like Vincent Kompany, Raphael Varane, Gareth Bale, Yaya Toure, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe were also on Wenger’s wish list but Arsenal missed out.

It’s unclear just how close those deals really were but Arsenal have become more about the deals they have done than the deals they missed out on.

Arsenal wanted to splash the cash on Mykhailo Mudryk and Moises Caicedo but ended up landing Leandro Trossard and Jorginho instead.

Those moves have worked out and allowed Arsenal to instead spent on Declan Rice and Kai Havertz – two players who are making a huge impact right now.

Arsenal have still missed out on some exciting talents and one of them has become a league champion this season…

Former Arsenal talent spotter makes Florian Wirtz claim

Ex-Arsenal scout Yousuf Sajjad has been speaking to Rising Ballers about his time in the Gunners system.

Sajjad worked in the youth setup at Arsenal before leaving to become the technical director of Den Bosch in 2023.

Now searching for his next opportunity after leaving the Netherlands, Sajjad has spoken about trying to sign Florian Wirtz.

The attacking midfielder has been the driving force behind Bayer Leverkusen’s first-ever Bundesliga title win but he could have been an Arsenal player.

Sajjad claims that he wanted to land Wirtz as his Koln contract came to an end, but injury problems had plagued him.

Wirtz and his representatives seemingly wanted to stay in Germany and focus on his education, leading to the move to Leverkusen instead.

Sajjad notes that Arsenal just couldn’t get him in but watching him in the Koln ranks was ‘not normal’ as he was dazzling against older competition.

“There was actually a period where he was at Koln, he was coming towards the end of his contract,” said Sajjad. “Of course, you could see the level of player he was but he had also that season quite a few injuries, so he was playing, he wasn’t playing. It was almost like, at that point, it was just not something that they were keen on at that moment, or at least he was keen on pursuing at that moment.”

“I think education is quite important in Germany. It was almost like he had to finish school, then he makes obviously a great move to Leverkusen, it works out again really well for him and probably has the choice of whatever he clubs in the world that would want to sign him, but also achieving great things at Leverkusen as well.”

“His technical quality… he was scoring outrageous goals. Every time I went and watched him, he would have just outrageous moments in a game where you’re thinking ‘this is not normal’. I think, of course, it would hit everyone when you go and watch a player like that, that he’s having these type of moments, but for him to do on a consistent basis and do it mostly at a level where he’s playing for the Under-19’s, for the B team as an Under-16, I think it was also showing that he has a certain level of quality that is different to the rest,” he added.

Wirtz stats this season

Wirtz has been simply ridiculous under Xabi Alonso this term.

The 20-year-old – yes, he’s still only 20 – has racked up 17 goals and 19 assists in 44 appearances across all competitions.

HITC understands that Liverpool and Manchester City are both interested in signing Wirtz but Arsenal links haven’t re-emerged.

Wirtz is surely going to move for £100million or more whenever he decides to leave Leverkusen, possibly even £110million.

Whether Arsenal get back into that race down the line remains to be seen but, for now, Wirtz is just another name to add to the almost-Arsenal team.

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'He's damn good': Gary Neville says Mikel Arteta has a 'little nuisance' at Arsenal, he's having a huge impact

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 28, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Arsenal continue their push for the Premier League title having beaten Tottenham Hotspur in the North London derby, putting the pressure on Manchester City in the process.

We would forgive any Arsenal fan who has spent the afternoon biting their nails after a nerve-shredding afternoon.

It all looked to be going so well for Arsenal as they raced into a 3-0 lead before the half-time whistle sounded.

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg’s own goal set Arsenal on their way before Bukayo Saka slotted home number two.

Kai Havertz added a third and Arsenal seemed to be out of sight but David Raya’s mistake turned the game.

Raya handed Cristian Romero an easy goal before Son Heung-min’s penalty set up a frantic last few minutes.

Arsenal just about managed to hang on and it’s now over to City as they take on Nottingham Forest this afternoon.

Gary Neville on Nicolas Jover

One of the key stories to come out of this game is Tottenham’s continued problems from set pieces – and Arsenal’s continued excellence.

The opener came as Hojbjerg nodded a Saka corner into his own net and the third was a Declan Rice delivery which Havertz headed home.

Arsenal sit top of the Premier League table in terms of goals from set pieces and they exploited Tottenham’s weakness there.

Spurs have conceded goals from set pieces for fun in recent months with goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario being targeted on a regular basis.

The mastermind behind Arsenal’s dead ball excellence is Nicolas Jover, who serves as the club’s set-piece coach.

Joker has come in for huge praise this season and Gary Neville joined in after Arsenal’s latest set-piece domination.

“He’s a little nuisance, that set piece coach, but he’s damn good,” said Neville on Sky Sports (28/04, 2:15pm) after seeing Jover celebrate on the sidelines.

Who is Arsenal coach Jover?

Jover hails from Berlin and his first major step in football was to become a video analyst at French club Montpellier.

The 42-year-old spent a spell as an analyst with the Croatian national team in 2013 and moved on from Montpellier in 2016.

Brentford brought Jover to English football in 2016, taking a key role on Thomas Frank’s coaching staff in West London.

Jover moved on to Manchester City in 2019, becoming a set-piece coach on the recommendation of Mikel Arteta, who was then on Pep Guaridola’s staff.

It was therefore no surprise when Arteta brought Jover to Arsenal in 2021 and the Gunners are now the most dangerous team in the league from set pieces.

Arteta will get the praise if Arsenal do win the league, but Jover’s influence cannot be overstated with the Gunners reaping the rewards of his expertise.

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Confirmed Tottenham Hotspur v Arsenal lineups as Ange Postecoglou makes Dejan Kulusevski decision

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 28, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Tottenham Hotspur meet Arsenal in the Premier League this afternoon as the two rivals meet for a simply huge encounter at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Tottenham saw Aston Villa drop points at home to Chelsea on Saturday night and will be desperate to close the gap to the Champions League places.

Guglielmo Vicario starts in goal for Tottenham as usual with Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven featuring as the centre backs again.

Pedro Porro is passed fit to play with Ben Davies coming in for the injured Destiny Udogie at left back.

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Rodrigo Bentancur feature in midfield with James Maddison pushing forward in attacking midfielder.

Timo Werner keeps his place on the left flank with Dejan Kulusevski coming on for Brennan Johnson on the right side, flanking Son Heung-min in attack.

Richarlison is named on the bench, joining Johnson, Brandon Austin, Emerson Royal, Radu Dragusin, Yves Bissouma, Pape Matar Sarr, Giovani Lo Celso and Bryan Gil.

Tottenham Hotspur confirmed team to play Arsenal

• GK – Guglielmo Vicario
• RB – Pedro Porro
• CB – Cristian Romero
• CB – Micky van de Ven
• LB – Ben Davies
• CM – Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg
• CM – Rodrigo Bentancur
• AM – James Maddison
• RW – Dejan Kulusevski
• LW – Timo Werner
• ST – Son Heung-min

Tottenham Hotspur substitutes

• Brandon Austin
• Emerson Royal
• Radu Dragusin
• Yves Bissouma
• Pape Matar Sarr
• Giovani Lo Celso
• Bryan Gil
• Brennan Johnson
• Richarlison

Arsenal need the points to continue their push for the Premier League title and go with David Raya between the sticks.

William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes start as the centre backs with Ben White continuing at right back.

Takehiro Tomiyasu starts at left back, getting the nod ahead of Oleksandr Zinchenko and Jakub Kiwior.

Thomas Partey is picked ahead of Jorginho in midfield with Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard further forward.

Kai Havertz leads the line again with Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard out wide.

That means Gabriel Jesus is only on the bench, joining Aaron Ramsdale, Zinchenko, Kiwior, Jorginho, Fabio Vieira, Emile Smith Rowe, Gabriel Martinelli and Eddie Nketiah.

Arsenal confirmed team to play Tottenham Hotspur

• GK – David Raya
• RB – Ben White
• CB – William Saliba
• CB – Gabriel Magalhaes
• LB – Takehiro Tomiyasu
• DM – Thomas Partey
• CM – Declan Rice
• CM – Martin Odegaard
• RW – Bukayo Saka
• LW – Leandro Trossard
• ST – Kai Havertz

Arsenal substitutes

• Aaron Ramsdale
• Oleksandr Zinchenko
• Jakub Kiwior
• Jorginho
• Fabio Vieira
• Emile Smith Rowe
• Gabriel Martinelli
• Gabriel Jesus
• Eddie Nketiah

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Photo: 17-year-old Arsenal talent spotted challenging Ben White in training before Tottenham Hotspur clash

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 28, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Arsenal face a huge game in the Premier League this afternoon as they take on North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur away from home.

The Gunners saw Liverpool’s Premier League title push effectively come to an end on Saturday afternoon.

Liverpool’s draw at West Ham United surely leaves the Premier League title race as a straight shoot-out between Arsenal and Manchester City.

City head to Nottingham Forest today but Arsenal can put the pressure on Pep Guardiola’s men with a victory in the North London derby.

A trip to Tottenham is never going to be easy and Arsenal actually found it difficult against Ange Postecoglou at the Emirates Stadium.

That game ended in a 2-2 draw and Arsenal will need to improve on that performance in order to claim all three points today.

Mikel Arteta featured in plenty of North London derbies as a player and will know the levels his players need to reach this afternoon.

Arteta has been putting his players through their paces ahead of the game and some teenagers were even involved in training at London Colney…

Osman Kamara and Elian Quesada-Thorn in Arsenal training

One photo from training – featured above – shows Osman Kamara in action, challenging Arsenal defender Ben White.

Winger Kamara was given a chance around the first team having impressed in the Under-18 Premier League this season.

The 17-year-old has racked up nine goals and two assists in 13 games for Arsenal under-18’s, whilst even picking up one goal in five Premier League 2 games.

Kamara looks to be an exciting talent and his potential was recognised with an opportunity to train alongside Arsenal’s star men.

Arsenal Youth reporter Jeorge Bird adds that left back Elian Quesada-Thorn was also involved in training on Saturday.

Quesada-Thorn has been on the Arsenal books since the age of just 10.

Whilst born in London, Quesada-Thorn represents Costa Rica at international level and earned a first senior call-up in September 2023, only to pull out through injured.

Quesada-Thorn also qualifies for England, the Republic of Ireland and even Sweden, so he may face a tricky international decision in the future.

It’s unlikely that either talent even features on the bench against Tottenham, but it’s great for these young players to be part of the preparations for such an enormous game.

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One of Arne Slot's most important players posts photo from Liverpool's 2-2 draw at West Ham United

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 28, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Liverpool are closing in on appointing their new manager with Feyenoord’s Arne Slot seemingly nearing a move to Anfield.

Jurgen Klopp decided to announce his departure from Liverpool in January, confirming that he would be moving on at the end of the season.

That gave Liverpool time to try and find a replacement and we have seen so many names mentioned over the last few months.

Xabi Alonso and Ruben Amorim were both being eyed for the Anfield job having impressed at Bayer Leverkusen and Sporting respectively.

Liverpool have ended up going down a different route though, targeting Feyenoord boss Arne Slot instead.

HITC understands that Michael Edwards is a big fan of Slot and it looks like the Dutchman will be Klopp’s replacement.

That is a bold move for Liverpool and some will have concerns that Slot will head the same way as Manchester United’s Erik ten Hag.

Slot has worked wonders at Feyenoord though and certainly deserves a chance to take the next step in his career with a move to Anfield.

Feyenoord star watches Liverpool draw

Slot still has to finish up the season with Feyenoord but Liverpool’s campaign is ending in somewhat disappointing fashion.

Saturday’s 2-2 draw at West Ham United – just days after losing at Everton – means Liverpool’s title hopes seem to be over.

Out of the FA Cup, out of the Europa League, now out of the title race, this has been a tricky time for Klopp and co.

Klopp’s era ending in this fashion feels very disappointing and Slot may have to try and pick this squad back up a bit upon his arrival.

Fans will already wonder about potential signings under Slot and one Feyenoord player was actually at Saturday’s game.

Feyenoord star Lutsharel Geertruida posted a photo from the London Stadium, taking the time to watch the Reds with Feyenoord having no fixture this weekend.

Liverpool certainly won’t have set the wheels in motion for any transfers just yet, especially with Slot not even confirmed as the new boss yet.

Geertruida will know a handful of Liverpool players from the Dutch national team setup with Virgil van Dijk, Ryan Gravenberch and Cody Gakpo all in action.

Perhaps Geertruida was just visiting to watch those players in action or just visiting London during a weekend off.

Fans will be wondering about a summer move for Geertruida though, given that is such a vital player under Slot.

The 23-year-old serves as Feyenoord’s vice-captain and he has an incredible connection with the fanbase at De Kuip as a Rotterdam-born player.

Geertruida’s versatility means that he often players as a right back or centre back, offering flexibility at the back.

Whether Liverpool need that profile of player is another matter given that Joe Gomez presents similar versatility.

Slot is certainly a big fan of Geertruida though and he will surely be a name that Liverpool at least consider this summer.

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'Mesmerising': Gary Neville claims £30m Arsenal ace is now 'the best in his position'

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 26, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Has there been a better individual performance anywhere in the Premier League this season? Cole Palmer may have something to say about that, following his one-man blitz of Everton, while Matheus Cunha’s own hat-trick display against Chelsea will take some forgetting.

But Martin Odegaard, nothing short of ‘mesmerising’ during Arsenal’s 5-0 dismantling of Mauricio Pochettino’s side on Tuesday night, is tough to beat.

It was a display some of the finest playmakers in The Gunners’ modern history would have been proud of, from Dennis Bergkamp to Cesc Fabregas and Mesut Ozil. A masterclass in creativity and cutting edge, Odegaard assisted Kai Havertz to score the first of a brace against his former club with a gorgeous sliderule pass before dinking the ball into Ben White for the defender to also double his tally for the evening.

And, for Gary Neville, there is currently no one better in the Premier League than a man who goes into Sunday’s North London derby with Tottenham Hotspur in dazzling form.

Martin Odegaard shining for Arsenal

“Arsenal were very good against Chelsea. “Excellent, in fact,” the Sky Sports pundit tells the Gary Neville podcast, Mikel Arteta’s side going three points clear at the top of the table before Manchester City’s own thrashing of Brighton two days later.

“Some of the football… and Martin Odegaard is mesmerising at the moment. He has become the best in that position in terms of the way he plays.

“I was really impressed with Chelsea against Manchester City at the weekend in the FA Cup semi-final. They were really good at Wembley and there was a lot to hang your hat on there and build on.

“Mauricio Pochettino came out and said, and he couldn’t say it any better, that when they are bad, they are rally bad, but also, Arsenal were really good. They won well and played in a dominant fashion against a poor and understrength Chelsea team, but Mikel Arteta’s side did their job.

“But now, Arsenal’s big moment of the season is this game on Sunday.”

Facing off against not only Arsenal but also Liverpool and Man City before the season ends, Tottenham find themselves in something of a ‘king-maker’ role. Ange Postecoglou’s exciting but inconsistent side held The Gunners to a 2-2 draw at the Emirates in the first half of the campaign, and a similar result would be hugely damaging to their rivals’ title hopes, especially with City expected to pick up all three points against struggling Nottingham Forest.

Gunners travel to Tottenham in North London derby

“Arsenal cannot be shocked on Sunday,” adds Neville, who knows a thing or two about the business end of a campaign, having won no fewer than eight Premier League titles under Sir Alex Ferguson.

“It’s going to potentially be like a bloodbath in the first 15 to 20 minutes. The Tottenham fans don’t want Arsenal to win the league. I’ve been in London a lot recently and in the black cabs, if you bump into a Spurs fan, they don’t want Arsenal to win the league.

“Tottenham will want a win, not just for stopping Arsenal, but for pride, winning a north London derby and getting as many points as they can. They are trying to push Aston Villa for that fourth place.

“It’s a huge game.”

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‘For Chelsea to spot him’: Ian Wright hails 'unbelievable work' of scouts to sign £43m star

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 25, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Understandably so, the mood in the Chelsea camp is going to be as low as it has been all season.

You would think these Chelsea players are used to taking these hits now because of how poor they have been for the last two seasons.

But Tuesday’s 5-0 defeat at Arsenal was certainly one of the lowest moments and something Mauricio Pochettino can’t hide away from.

Even before a ball was kicked, the Chelsea supporters weren’t optimistic. They knew they were in for a rough ride because they were without their star man, Cole Palmer.

The 21-year-old is the joint top-scorer in the Premier League (20 goals) and many feel he has been papering over cracks at Stamford Bridge.

And now, without the Englishman, Chelsea have crumbled and produced one of their worst displays of the season.

Not a good look for Pochettino and those who feel that the Euro 2024 hopeful is keeping him in a job.

This is a transfer that has surprised many because, not even Palmer himself would have seen such success so early.

Ian Wright admits that he ‘couldn’t have seen’ Palmer perform like he has been when he first joined and praised the ‘unbelievable work’ of the scouts at Chelsea, as he told Premier League Productions (23/04/24 at 7:40 pm).

The former striker stated that at ‘£42 million’, if you were Manchester City, you would have bitten their hands off for that type of transfer fee, but now he is double that.

Cole Palmer at Chelsea

“Cole Palmer is probably their best player,” said Wright. “He is that player, you are afraid of.

“And the pressure that comes with going to Chelsea. When that move came about., firstly you thought ‘yeah, Manchester City, he might not be enough for them’.

“But for Chelsea to spot him, now they have spotted him, for him to go into Chelsea as a top-scorer, in the England squad now and probably going to be going to the Euros, is unbelievable work from that person and that recruitment. Unbelievable work. I couldn’t have seen that. If somebody said you could get Cole Palmer for £42 million, you would bite your hand off. But now he is double that.”

Chelsea’s trip to Aston Villa

Chelsea have been here before and they have won at Villa Park already this season, so it’s not as bad as it looks or feels.

Back in January, Pochettino had just conceded four to Wolves and Liverpool in back-to-back matches.

Then he rocked up to Villa Park in the FA Cup and secured a 3-1 win to ease the pressure on himself and his players.

After Palmer missed the London derby, fans will be hopeful he is back for the trip to the Midlands and perhaps the team can pull out another rabbit from the hat.

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‘He has everything Arteta needs’: Ian Wright admits being 'very surprised' by £280k-a-week star at Arsenal

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 25, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Football is about proving people wrong and you just feel Mikel Arteta is doing that at Arsenal in bucket loads.

When he first arrived in 2019, the former midfielder came from a blank canvas. Zero managerial experience, other than being Pep Guardiola’s assistant.

Not a bad thing to have on your CV, but Arsenal saw something that others didn’t.

Despite all that, it wasn’t until last season that people started to sit up and take notice of Arteta’s work.

Throughout his tenure, he has made huge calls from the dugout, whether it be keeping then-unpopular players on, such as Granit Xhaka.

Or securing transfers that didn’t just leave people from the outside questioning what they were doing, but his own fans too.

Someone like Kai Havertz falls firmly into that category after his big-money move from Chelsea to the Emirates.

The German international was getting verbal pelters from everywhere, including a certain Ian Wright being ‘very surprised’ by him, as he admitted on Premier League Productions (22/04/24 at 7:25 pm).

When Xhaka departed the club, many thought Havertz would replace him in the number eight role.

Yes, the £280k-a-week star has been deployed there at times, but for Ian Wright, the shock comes with the success he has had with being a number nine. 

Kai Havertz at Arsenal

“I was very surprised by Havertz because I thought he would come into that Xhaka role to be a number eight,” said Wright.

“But what you are seeing is, as a centre-forward, he has everything Mikel (Arteta) needs. He can drop in and link play. He has got a physical presence. He can score goals, like we are seeing him score goals. He causes a lot of problems up there.

“When the season started, he was doing a similar thing. Everybody was saying ‘oh, is he an eight?’ No. He’s a nine-and-a-half or he is a nine. And he plays in there. He makes really good movement.”

Kai Havertz scores a brace against Chelsea

Arsenal fans have enjoyed many great moments under Arteta. From wins over Manchester City, and Manchester United, winning the FA Cup or away at Tottenham last season.

But their 5-0 demolition job of Chelsea on Tuesday night was probably right up there.

Not only was it Arsenal just making matters worse for their London rivals, but also watching Havertz net a brace against his former side.

The player himself didn’t do the old ‘I am not going to celebrate’. He made sure to celebrate on both occasions and enjoy the moment.

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Exclusive: Ralf Rangnick has discussed signing two players he wanted at Manchester United for Bayern Munich 

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 24, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

• EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey

HITC understands that Bayern Munich have discussed potential targets with Ralf Rangnick and they include two players he wanted to take to Manchester United.

The 65-year-old is close to agreeing terms with Bayern to take charge following this summer’s European Championships where he will lead Austria into the finals.

Thomas Tuchel, who is currently at the helm of the German giants, is set to leave at the end of the season after losing the Bundesliga title to Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen – Bayern are still in the Champions League after knocking out Arsenal. 

Ralf Rangnick, who has been on the international scene since 2022, was last in club management when he was in charge of Manchester United on an interim basis for six months during the 2021-22 Premier League season.

The German ended up leaving during that summer after a planned consultancy role was thrown out of the window – Erik ten Hag proceeded to follow in his footsteps. 

The former RB Leipzig supremo has emerged as Bayern’s number-one choice following their failure to land Alonso and Julian Nageslmann.

Jeremie Frimpong and Frenkie de Jong

Rangnick is now discussing the project and he wants to have some input into potential incomings and HITC sources have suggested that that he has put forward two players he likes.

As it happens, they are two players that Bayern already like and are on their radar – they are Bayer Leverkusen right-back Jeremie Frimpong and Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong – both of whom could very well move this summer.

For several transfer windows, de Jong was a name heavily linked with Manchester United, but a move didn’t transpire.

And now, the Dutch midfielder’s current deal at the Non Camp expires in 2026, with his current manager Xavi Hernandez deciding to stay after previously confirming that he was going to leave in the summer.

Whilst Frimpong is now one of the most highly sought-after fullbacks in European football after playing a key role in Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga title.

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Exclusive: Huge news as Barcelona learn Xavi future decision amid Chelsea interest

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 24, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

A number of Premier League clubs including, Chelsea, have suffered a blow with news that a potential managerial target is no longer available.

Barcelona head coach Xavi shocked La Liga and European football when he announced that he would be stepping down as head coach of the Catalan giants.

With Xavi going, Barca started to undertake their search for a new manager and they have been looking at a number of options including the likes of Sporting Libson’s Ruben Amorim and Brighton’s Roberto De Zerbi.

Indeed the situation also led to clubs from across Europe to look at Xavi – still regarded as one of Europe’s top coaches.

HITC revealed in March that Xavi’s situation was being monitored by the owners of Chelsea and Newcastle – should he indeed become available.

However, we were also informed by sources close to Barcelona that they were confident that Xavi could be persuaded to stay with the club.

Xavi agrees to stay with Barcelona

Now, HITC understands that Xavi has now confirmed to Barca president Joan Laporta that he intends to stay on for at least one more season.

The news is a major boost for Laporta, who admitted last month that he was in talks with Xavi.

He told El Mundo Deportivo: “I said to him: ‘We respect the fact that you’re here until the end of the season. It’s your decision. We’re doing well, we’re getting better and better. Look, since he’s said it, he’s won again and we’re winking at each other as if to say something can happen here. It’s going like this, it’s going better [than before] and the objectives are achieved’.

“Xavi already knows that I would like him to continue, but I already told him at the time, when he said about the pressure, that here we are always under pressure with the experience that you have.

“I asked him if there was a way for him to change his mind, but I saw him with insurmountable pressure on his face, [and] I told him to relax if he saw it that way.

“He keeps saying that at the end of the season he will leave, but we will see. Let’s not put pressure on ourselves because at the moment this formula works.”

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'He is more elegant’: Glenn Hoddle says Arsenal star now playing at his best after 5-0 win over Chelsea

By: Muhammad Saeed on April 24, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Arsenal produced a statement victory on Tuesday night when they dispatched Chelsea 5-0 at the Emirates.

Everything that went wrong for Mauricio Pochettino’s side did so on the night, whilst Arsenal couldn’t have asked for a better evening in front of their supporters.

Football can be a funny old game and it’s amazing how certain situations can come back to bite you in the back.

Mikel Arteta has made some big calls during his time as manager and he has made signings that have divided opinion.

Even his own supporters have questioned some of the calls he makes, but for the most part, he ends up proving them wrong.

You could argue that Kai Havertz’s transfer from Chelsea to Arsenal in the summer was the most decisive of them all.

At the time, many supporters within the Emirates questioned the decision to sign the player, whilst Chelsea, who had just finished in the bottom half of the Premier League table, were happy to see the back him.

But it’s amazing how certain situations can turn on its head in next to no time because Havertz was netting a brace against Chelsea, with the home fans chanting ‘£60 million down the drain’ in an ironic fashion.

Glenn Hoddle thinks that Havertz is now playing at his absolute best and it proves what confidence does to a player, as he told Premier League Productions (23/04/24 at 10:25 pm).

The legendary playmaker added that the German international is an ‘elegant’ player for a number nine and it’s not just about making runs into the penalty box.

Kai Havertz haunts Chelsea with two goals

“He still had a lot to do, it’s a great ball from Odegaard, it’s just the way he took it away from Cucurella and keeps a cool head again,” said Hoddle.

“That’s the difference. When a player is confident. He is going in there and he is thinking about scoring. He believes he is going to score – without a doubt (Havertz would have enjoyed scoring against Chelsea). But he has moved on from that scenario and it’s proved to him, personally, it has been a great move for him. 

“He is confident, and as we said before, there has always been a player inside there. It’s just about getting it out and I think he has found his position now – sometimes, your number nine, if he arrives in the box, he is a number nine. He was coming off and linking the play really, really well, Havertz. You need that focal point. Everyone thinks you need a big number nine to do that. Well, he is a tall lad, but he is a bit more elegant than that. He held the ball up. It’s back to confidence.”

Kai Havertz is proving people wrong

First off, kudos to the manager for not caring about the noise and signing a player like Havertz when many were against it.

It has taken its time, but he is slowly proving his worth and shutting a lot of people up.

The 24-year-old now has 11 Premier League goals to his name, added to five assists, not forgetting that he has played a number of matches as a number eight.

For a player many were expecting to flop, to have 17 goal involvements is very healthy and a sign that he can continue to go to the next level in the coming seasons. 

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