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Ballon d’Or website mistake leaves fans questioning what happened behind the scenes
France Football accidentally posted three separate Ballon d’Or winner profiles—Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal—on its official site Monday evening before quickly removing them. The glitch, reported by The Athletic, has fans wondering if a technical error or draft mishap revealed the award’s outcome ahead of the October 26 ceremony. While none of the players is confirmed as the winner, the incident highlights potential editorial lapses and fuels social‑media speculation about the prestigious prize.
Chelsea plot rival move as Man United track promising 18-year-old defender
Manchester United are monitoring 18‑year‑old Twente centre‑back Ruud Nijstad, a 6‑ft‑5 left‑footed defender praised for his aerial ability and composure on the ball. Chelsea leads a list of Premier League suitors that also includes Manchester City, Aston Villa, Newcastle, Brentford, Everton and Sunderland. Twente, reluctant to sell in January and with former United boss Erik ten Hag now acting as technical director, may keep Nijstad until the summer, making any United bid a long‑term prospect.
Former Man United star who played under Antonio Conte explains why his appointment would be a ‘disaster’
Former Manchester United winger Ashley Young warns that hiring Antonio Conte would be a disaster for Old Trafford. Young, who won a Serie A title under Conte at Inter, says the Italian's extreme physical and psychological demands clash with United’s squad, especially after a recent eight‑match winless run and a 4‑1 Champions League loss to Como. He cites long training sessions, marathon debriefs and player burnout as reasons Conte rarely lasts at clubs. Yet the article notes Conte’s impressive résumé – five Serie A crowns, a Premier League title and an FA Cup – which still tempts the INEOS hierarchy as United sit 14th in the Premier League.
Sean Dyche linked with surprise Premier League return as struggling club considers managerial change
Crystal Palace may turn to former Everton and Nottingham Forest boss Sean Dyche as they contemplate sacking under‑fire coach Pierre Sage. After a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United at Selhurst Park, the Eagles sit 17th with just seven points from eight games, following a 5-0 loss to Brighton and a shaky start to their UEFA Conference League campaign. Dyche, out of work since leaving Forest earlier this year, is praised for his defensive organization and Premier League experience, making him a top candidate as Palace rushes to act before the international break narrows options.
Report: Man United make move for Michael Carrick replacement as contract dispute emerges
Manchester United meet Eddie Howe’s representatives in London as Michael Carrick’s job hangs in the balance after a 3-0 home loss to Bournemouth, extending United’s winless streak to eight games. Insider Indy Kaila says Howe wants a contract without Champions League‑related clauses, while United push for such terms. With United sitting 14th after a 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como, the club may decide Carrick’s fate soon. Howe, free after leaving Newcastle, is among several names – including Nagelsmann and Conte – linked to the vacant role.
Michael Carrick sack update emerges from inside Man United dressing room after Bournemouth defeat
Insiders in Manchester United’s dressing room say Michael Carrick is likely to be dismissed after the Red Devils’ 3-0 loss to Bournemouth on Sunday, which stretched their winless run to eight games and left them 14th in the Premier League. The defeat follows a 4-1 Champions League thrashing by Como, intensifying pressure on Carrey, whose two‑year contract includes a break clause. Senior figures such as co‑owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, CEO Omar Berrada and technical director Jason Wilcox may decide his fate as early as Monday. Potential replacements being linked include Julian Nagelsmann, Eddie Howe and Antonio Conte.
Bruno Fernandes’ Instagram activity raises eyebrows after being benched against Bournemouth
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes draws renewed scrutiny after liking a cryptic Instagram reel following his benching in the 3-0 loss to Bournemouth on October 26, 2026. Dropped by interim manager Michael Carrick after publicly criticizing tactics after a 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como, Fernandes remained an unused substitute while Harry Maguire wore the armband. The liked post featured a quote about loyalty and a destructive boulder animation, sparking fan speculation about a growing rift. United’s winless streak reaches eight games, and transfer rumors link Fernandes with Saudi clubs and Galatasaray ahead of the January window.
Potential Van Dijk successor linked with Liverpool last summer is “still on their radar”
Liverpool are still eyeing Borussia Dortmund’s 26‑year‑old centre‑back Nico Schlotterbeck as a long‑term replacement for Virgil van Dijk, despite the German signing a new contract this year. The Reds plan to prioritise a defender in the next two transfer windows as van Dijk and Joe Gomez near the end of their deals, with Schlotterbeck listed alongside Nottingham Forest’s Murillo, Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni and Barcelona’s Jules Koundé. Schlotterbeck’s left‑footed aggression, passing range and prime age make him the clearest fit, though Dortmund’s higher price tag could complicate a move.
Agbonlahor feels Arsenal will be “100%” looking to sell player who ‘can’t run’
Former Aston Villa striker Gabriel Agbonlahur says Arsenal will definitely offload Swedish forward Viktor Gyökeres before next season, criticizing his pace and movement after the striker’s modest display in a 2-1 win over Everton. Agbonlahur claims Gyökeres, who arrived for £63.5 million and has 21 goals in 65 games, “can’t run” and would be replaced if Julián Álvarez had joined Arsenal this summer. The Gunners’ failed pursuit of the Argentine highlights Arteta’s desire for a more elite No. 9, putting Gyökeres under pressure to prove he can score against top opposition. His future now hinges on performances before the January window.
Watch: Fan footage shows how Man United supporters reacted differently to Carrick and players after Bournemouth loss
After Manchester United's 3-0 loss to Bournemouth on October 25, 2026, fan footage from the Stretford End reveals a stark split in supporter sentiment: chants of "Michael Carrick" echo as the manager walks past, but the moment he disappears the crowd erupts in boos aimed at the players. The defeat extends United’s winless streak to eight games and leaves them 14th with eight points. The controversy deepens after captain Bruno Fernandes is benched, sparking debate over Carrick’s tactics and future. The video underscores fans’ growing frustration with the squad while still backing the under‑pressure manager.
Latest: Arsenal open talks to protect one of Arteta’s most important players
Arsenal are set to begin contract talks with goalkeeper David Raya, whose deal runs until 2028, to secure his future as Mikel Artetta’s first‑choice keeper. Raya, 31, has impressed with five clean sheets in eight league games, a 73.7% save rate, and September’s Save of the Month award. He also boasts strong Champions League numbers and excellent distribution, key to Arsenal’s possession style. While he dreams of a La Liga spell, the club wants to lock him in before his contract becomes complicated, hoping to keep his stability beyond 2028.
Maresca wants to get reunited with “fantastic” Chelsea player at Man City
Manchester City are reviving interest in Chelsea's 23‑year‑old right‑back Malo Gusto ahead of the January window, after the Blues reportedly lowered their asking price from £70m to around £50‑60m. Gusto, who has struggled for consistent minutes under Xabi Alonso with Reece James and Marco Palestra competing for the flank, could reunite with former Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca, who praised his versatility. While a sale would net Chelsea a sizable profit on a player under contract until 2030, it also risks weakening a squad already thin on reliable right‑back cover.
Liverpool make Trent Alexander-Arnold decision as right-back struggles at Real Madrid
Liverpool say they have no immediate plans to re‑sign Trent Alexander‑Arnold despite his dwindling role at Real Madrid, where he has started just three of nine league games and logged only 345 minutes this season. With Federico Valverde and new signing Denzel Dumfries ahead in the pecking order, Madrid may be open to selling, but Liverpool are focused on other right‑back options, including a potential £46 million bid for Ronald Araujo, as well as Jeremie Frimpong and injured Conor Bradley. The club views a Tristan return as financially and tactically risky.
Arsenal “very interested” in move for world-class forward as January window approaches
Arsenal are set to rekindle pursuit of Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez as the January transfer window looms, according to Daily Briefing. Mikel Arteta’s side, despite recent attacking signings, view the 23‑year‑old as a perfect fit – a versatile No.9 who presses aggressively and already has Premier League experience from his loan at Manchester City. Atlético price the Argentine at €140‑150 million and show no intent to sell easily, while Barcelona also claim strong interest. Sources say Arsenal could put forward a creative January offer involving add‑ons or player swaps if the deal becomes feasible, putting them in direct competition with Liverpool for the prized forward.
Man United face threat of losing “top player” as manager eyes reunion with defender
Manchester United may lose 20‑year‑old centre‑back Leny Yoro next summer as AC Milan target the French defender for a defensive overhaul. United paid €62 million for Yoro in 2024, but injuries and inconsistent starts under Michael Carrick have limited his impact. Milan, led by former United boss Rubén Amorim, are willing to negotiate a €40‑50 million fee, despite Yoro’s contract running until 2029. The player just earned his first senior France cap, playing the full 90 minutes in a 4‑1 Nations League win over Belgium, and has previously impressed Amorim, who called him “a top, top, top player.” United must weigh the short‑term cash against Yoro’s potential and recent international breakthrough.
Just in: Man United risk losing one of their brightest talents for minimal compensation
Manchester United refuse to terminate 16‑year‑old academy star JJ Gabriel’s registration, forcing the player to stay at Old Trafford despite his desire to leave for senior football. Gabriel, praised as one of United’s brightest recent prospects, grew frustrated with the pathway promised by Michael Carrick’s staff and has attracted interest from Europe’s elite, including Real Madrid and PSG. United risk losing him for only about £350,000 in training compensation if he moves abroad, highlighting a potential flaw in the club’s development strategy.
Tottenham midfielder with ‘enormous potential’ is on the radar of Barcelona
Tottenham's 20‑year‑old Swedish midfielder Lucas Bergvall has attracted interest from Barcelona and Napoli as his Premier League starts dwindle under Roberto De Zerbi. Despite signing a long‑term contract in September, Bergvall has started only twice in the league this season, facing stiff competition from new signings Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes. Spurs’ sporting director Johan Lange hails his “enormous potential,” while De Zerbi praises his bravery and mentality. With Barcelona monitoring his situation, Tottenham must decide whether to give Bergvall regular minutes or risk losing a highly‑rated talent.
Arsenal could battle Liverpool for one of Germany’s brightest young talents
Arsenal and Liverpool are closely monitoring Bayern Munich teen phenom Lennart Karl, whose first‑team minutes have dwindled early in the 2026/27 season. The 18‑year‑old, who signed a new Bayern contract through 2029 after a breakout year with nine goals and a Champions League record, has made only 10 appearances this term, prompting Premier League interest ahead of 2027. Both clubs see his left‑footed dribbling, cutting‑in ability and high‑speed runs (32.7 km/h) as a future creative boost alongside players like Saka or in Jurgen Klopp’s system. Bayern’s intention to keep him adds a transfer dilemma for the English giants.
Man United target “excellent” Premier League player to solve defensive issues
Manchester United are reviving their pursuit of Everton centre‑back Jarrad Branthwaite to fix a faltering defence. The 24‑year‑old, praised by David Moyes after a standout show against Tottenham, is back fit and excelling in the 2026/27 season. United may need to meet Everton’s £80 million asking price, as the player has a contract until 2030 and is also linked with City, Real Madrid and Atletico. Branthwaite’s left‑footed, physical style and age suit United’s need for long‑term centre‑back stability, provided his past hamstring issues are fully resolved.
‘Absolutely exceptional’ manager is ready for Man United talks if Carrick is sacked
Eddie Howe is reportedly open to Manchester United’s manager’s job if Michael Carrick is dismissed, offering a proven Premier League option with no compensation fee. United’s poor start—including a 4-1 Champions League loss to Como and a 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth—has intensified pressure on Carrick. Howe, who left Newcastle after guiding them from relegation to Champions League qualification and winning the 2025 Carabao Cup, is backed by Old Trafford director Jason Wilcox and praised by Jürgen Klopp for his player development and pressing style. His experience and immediate availability make him a standout candidate for United’s next hire.
Crystal Palace identify key January priority as pressure grows on under-fire boss
Crystal Palace face mounting pressure on manager Pierre Sage after a 5-0 loss to Brighton and 17 goals conceded in seven Premier League games. Former Everton chief Keith Wyness says the club must sign a centre‑back in the January window to shore up a defence weakened by the summer exits of Maxence Lacroix and Daniel Muñoz. Wyness argues a new defender could secure Sage's job, while ex‑Manchester United scout Mick Brown links a potential sack to former Burnley boss Sean Dyche. The next few weeks will test Sage's tactical flexibility as the club decides its January priorities.
Aston Villa warned of major financial setback after disappointing league campaign
Aston Villa face a potential £30 million hit in Premier League prize money if their poor domestic form continues, warns former Manchester City adviser Stefan Borson. After finishing fourth in 2025‑26 and qualifying for the Champions League, the club now teeters near the relegation zone under manager Unai Emery. Each league position is worth roughly £3 million, so a slip from fourth could erase much of the extra revenue from European competition. While Villa’s Champions League start is encouraging, the article stresses the urgent need to improve league results to safeguard the club’s finances and long‑term ambitions.
Leeds and Everton eye 26-year-old Ligue 1 striker after stunning goalscoring form
Leeds United and Everton are closely tracking Rennes striker Esteban Lepaul, the 26‑year‑old who netted 20 Ligue 1 goals last season and has added four in his first six games this year. The French forward, who earned his first senior France call‑up, is under contract until 2030 and Rennes shows no urgency to sell. Both Premier League clubs may need to wait until the summer window and prepare a sizable offer to lure the in‑form striker away.
Sunderland fans left unimpressed after live TV prediction ahead of Leeds clash
Former England striker Jay Bothroyd sparks controversy on live TV by predicting a 2-0 Leeds United victory over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. Bothroyd cites Sunderland’s cramped schedule – a 1‑1 Europa League draw in Poland on Thursday – and Leeds’s fresh legs under Daniel Farke as decisive factors. The Black Cats, coming off European duty, face a tough Premier League test against a rested Leeds side on Sunday. Bothroyd’s forecast adds extra drama to a rivalry where Sunderland last beat Leeds 1‑0 at Elland Road and drew 1‑1 at home.
Everton discuss January deal for €30m-rated forward with 29-G/A last season
Everton are in early talks with Manchester United about a January move for England forward Marcus Rashford, whose €30 million price tag reflects his 29 goal/assist tally from a loan spell at Barcelona last season. The 28‑year‑old has struggled at Old Trafford, registering no goal contributions in six starts under Michael Carrick. David Moyes sees Rashford’s pace and versatility as a boost for the Toffees’ attack, though United’s wage demands and Rashford’s reluctance to join another English club could complicate a deal.
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