Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
August 2025
Van Dijk criticised a small group of Crystal Palace fans for interrupting a minute’s silence for Diogo Jota and his brother ahead of the Community Shield. The tribute was cut short due to noise from the Palace section, drawing widespread disapproval. Palace later won 2-2 (pens) in a dramatic match.
Darwin Nunez (Liverpool > Al-Hilal)
August 2025
Darwin Nunez completed a £46.2m move to Al-Hilal, potentially rising to £56.6m with add-ons, ending a mixed three-year spell at Liverpool that included a Premier League title. In a heartfelt message, Nunez thanked fans, staff, and teammates, expressing gratitude for their support through highs and lows. He leaves with fond memories despite not fully living up to expectations.
Inter Miami
August 2025
Inter Miami suffered their first defeat since July 16, losing 4-1 to Orlando City without injured Lionel Messi, ending an unbeaten run that included a strong Leagues Cup showing. Coach Javier Mascherano admitted full responsibility, criticising his side’s lack of intensity and warning this must be a turning point. It marked the Herons’ second straight loss to Orlando and first since Rodrigo de Paul joined.
Son Heung-Min (LAFC)
August 2025
Son Heung-Min earned a crucial penalty in his LAFC debut, helping secure a 2-2 draw against Chicago Fire after coming on as a second-half substitute. Son was fouled in the box in the 70th minute, leading to Denis Bouanga’s equaliser after VAR intervention. He nearly scored a stoppage-time winner, but his shot was blocked. LAFC remain 37 points, Chicago on 36 in playoff contention.
Rasmus Hojlund (Manchester United)
August 2025
AC Milan are negotiating a loan deal for Rasmus Hojlund with a €6m fee, €45m buy option, and full salary coverage, but the striker is reluctant to leave Old Trafford. Milan aim to reunite Hojlund with Serie A after his Atalanta success, but he is determined to fight for his place despite competition from new signings Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Joshua Zirkzee.
Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace)
August 2025
Liverpool will renew transfer talks with Marc Guehi after the defender captains Crystal Palace in the Community Shield. Palace value him at around £45m. Guehi, with a year left on his contract, will not force a move if Palace refuse to sell. Liverpool lead the race ahead of Newcastle and Chelsea, who are focused on attacking targets instead.
Samu Aghehowa (Porto)
August 2025
ewcastle United’s striker search suffers another setback as 21-year-old Samu Aghehowa chooses to stay at Porto despite Premier League interest. The forward is focused on winning the title and improving his scoring tally. Porto refuse to sell just a year after signing him from Atletico Madrid and are protected by a €100m release clause. Newcastle have already missed out on Benjamin Sesko, while Liverpool had a £110m bid for Alexander Isak rejected.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe (Manchester United)
August 2025
Manchester United revealed their redeveloped Carrington Training Complex after a £50m upgrade, aimed at modernising facilities and supporting the club’s push to return to the top. Ratcliffe described the old setup as a “gloomy rabbit warren” and praised the new open, modern design. The project was completed on time and on budget, improving player interaction and preparation.
Luke Shaw (Manchester United)
August 2025
Luke Shaw is reportedly unhappy after being left out of Manchester United’s new six-man leadership group, which includes Bruno Fernandes and Harry Maguire. Manager Ruben Amorim hopes Shaw channels his frustration into better performances, though concerns have been raised about his pre-season intensity and focus.
