Gianluigi Donnarumma
January 2026
Guardiola said Donnarumma’s short passing and composure are better than his reputation, while conceding he cannot match Ederson’s long passing. Guardiola highlighted first touch, decision-making, and tempo in short build-up as key strengths, framing Ederson’s range as an outlier few keepers can replicate.
Karim Benzema
January 2026
Planes said he expects Benzema to extend beyond his June 2026 contract, despite mixed reports and Benzema’s own non-committal stance. Planes claimed Benzema wants to stay for the “serious project” and strong squad. Benzema previously said he is focused on football with six months left and left contract decisions to others.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
January 2026
Shearer said it would be “very strange” for United to reappoint Solskjaer after already sacking him, even as talks are reportedly planned about an interim role post-Amorim. He argued United’s issues are too deep for a recycled fix, suggested using a short-term caretaker like Fletcher or Carrick, then targeting a strong permanent manager in summer after the World Cup market settles.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
January 2026
Reports claim Solskjaer is in talks to return as United’s interim manager after Amorim’s exit, with details emerging on a proposed pay package. Norwegian outlet claims United see him as a cheaper caretaker option, with wages suggested at £50,000–£60,000 per week plus bonuses tied to outcomes like Champions League qualification.
Nuno Espirito Santo
January 2026
West Ham officials are reportedly furious with Nuno after he smiled and embraced Forest players on the pitch following a damaging 2-1 defeat that left West Ham seven points from safety. Senior figures viewed the optics as naive given the relegation fight and winless run, believing any reunions should have happened privately. The reaction adds to doubts over results, tactics and dressing-room mood.
Gabriel Martinelli
January 2026
Martinelli will not face further FA punishment after a late flashpoint in Arsenal’s 0-0 draw with Liverpool, where he pushed Bradley while Bradley was down injured. The referee booked Martinelli during the match and logged it in his report, which normally closes the case for retrospective action. Martinelli later apologised, saying he misread the situation.
Vinicius Jr
January 2026
Vinicius and Simeone exchanged words on the touchline when the Real forward was substituted during Madrid’s Super Cup semi-final win over Atletico in Saudi Arabia. TV audio captured Simeone taunting Vinicius about Florentino Perez. Simeone later downplayed it, saying what happens on the pitch stays there while stressing respect for Madrid players.
Ruben Amorim
January 2026
Ruben Amorim is being linked with a fast move into another high-level job after United dismissed him, with reports suggesting a prominent replacement role is already being lined up. His exit followed a public rant after the Leeds draw, where he demanded authority as “manager” and criticised internal departments. United acted within 24 hours, ending his 14-month spell despite sixth place.
Liam Rosenior
January 2026
Ben Chilwell publicly wished Liam Rosenior well after Rosenior was named Chelsea head coach, calling Chelsea an “amazing club” as the coach leaves Strasbourg. Chilwell posted a message on Instagram alongside a photo with Rosenior. He also reiterated earlier praise, saying Rosenior impressed him instantly and was destined for the top, after working together at Strasbourg.
