Xabi Alonso (Bayer Leverkusen)
April 2025
Xabi Alonso confirmed his future plans are “clear” but asked fans for patience, amid strong links to the Real Madrid job if Carlo Ancelotti departs.
Alonso emphasized open communication with Bayer Leverkusen leadership and stressed there is no rush in announcing his decision, urging people to “wait a bit” for confirmation.
Ruben Amorim (Manchester United)
September 2025
Ruben Amorim praised Jose Mourinho after his appointment as Benfica boss, calling him “the best Portuguese manager.” Amorim credited Mourinho for opening doors for Portuguese coaches but underlined Manchester United remains his only club amid speculation. Despite United’s mixed start, Amorim eased pressure with a 2-1 win over Chelsea, thanks to Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro. He admitted Mourinho remains an inspiration but insisted his own focus is firmly on United’s project, brushing aside any talk of distraction or divided loyalty.
Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool > Real Madrid)
Deal confirmed, debut expected June 18
Real Madrid have signed Trent Alexander-Arnold for €10 million ahead of his contract expiry, allowing him to play in the Club World Cup. He joins on a six-year deal after leaving Liverpool.
Madrid fast-tracked the transfer to aid team integration and bolster their defense following Dani Carvajal’s injury. Alexander-Arnold reunites with Jude Bellingham, boosting Madrid’s right flank for the new season.
Nico Paz (Como)
August 2025
Tottenham raised their bid to €50m for Nico Paz after missing out on Eberechi Eze. With James Maddison sidelined, Spurs are pushing for creativity in midfield, though Como value Paz closer to €70m. Spurs’ urgency to find a playmaker has intensified, but no agreement has been reached with Como or Paz himself. Tottenham’s failed Eze chase and Maddison’s injury leave them scrambling late in the window.
Jakub Jankto (Cagliari)
August 2025
Jakub Jankto retired at 29 after enduring persistent ankle ligament damage that kept him sidelined throughout 2024/25. His announcement came with a heartfelt message citing severe pain, alongside a personal choice to live closer to his son in Prague. Jankto explained on Instagram that despite attempts to overcome pain, the damage was irreparable. Prioritizing family over career, he chose to retire and dedicate his life to children’s programs, marking an early but decisive end to his professional journey.
Manchester United
October 2025
Manchester United’s misfiring frontline has reignited debate after critics claimed the club should have pursued Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta instead of splashing £73m on Benjamin Sesko. Mateta has four goals in ten games this season, while Sesko has only managed one in seven.
Sam Allardyce blasted United’s recruitment, saying Mateta offers the physicality and consistency the club lacks, contrasting with Sesko’s slow start. With Ruben Amorim under pressure and United sitting 14th, their striking woes have amplified scrutiny on transfer decisions ahead of Sunderland’s visit.
Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United)
August 2025
Chelsea are in advanced talks with Manchester United for Alejandro Garnacho in a deal worth £35–40m. The winger has rejected Bayern Munich, made clear his wish to move only to Chelsea, and could seal the switch before Monday’s deadline. Garnacho, frozen out under Ruben Amorim alongside United’s unwanted outcasts, hasn’t featured since last season. Chelsea initially balked at United’s £50m valuation but with squad space created by offloading Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson, negotiations resumed to meet a compromise fee and finalise the transfer.
Erling Haaland (Norway)
September 2025
Erling Haaland delivered a stunning five-goal masterclass in Norway’s 11-1 demolition of Moldova, further cementing his reputation as one of the game’s most ruthless strikers. He also provided an assist as Norway stayed top of Group I with maximum points. Haaland struck a first-half hat-trick, added two more after the break, and set up Felix Myrhe’s opener. Martin Ødegaard and Rangers’ Thelo Aasgaard, who netted four off the bench, contributed, but it was Haaland’s relentless finishing that defined a one-sided night in Oslo.
Mykhailo Mudryk, Christopher Nkunku (Chelsea)
Summer 2025
Chelsea are reportedly open to offloading both Mudryk and Nkunku this summer. Mudryk’s form and failed drug test contribute to the decision; Nkunku draws interest from United and PSG.
Chelsea expect more serious bids for Nkunku, but could struggle to recoup the €60m paid for him. Mudryk’s suspension and underperformance complicate his market value.
Phil Jones, Mason Mount, Luke Shaw (Manchester United)
March 2025
Former United defender Phil Jones admits he felt “embarrassed” by his injury struggles and sympathizes with Mount and Shaw as they battle recurring fitness issues.
Jones, who retired due to long-term injuries, understands the pressure of missing games at a top club and advises the players to return only when fully ready.