Lionel Messi transfer odds: PSG favourites to swoop
We’re tracking the latest Lionel Messi transfer news, rumours and odds for clues on where Lionel Messi could move to this summer. Barcelona sent shock waves across the football world when announcing the 34-year-old Argentina superstar was heading for the exit door.
Fixture difficulty: Which clubs have the toughest – and easiest – start to the new season?
The ‘big five’ European leagues have released their schedules for the 2021-22 season so we have analysed the fixture difficulty for them all. While every team has to play everyone else at some point, timing can be everything. A tough start can easily undermine a positive pre-season, while a gentle run of opening fixtures can provide the momentum necessary for a successful campaign.
Ballon d’Or odds: Messi could be in seventh heaven
Lionel Messi will look to extend his record of six Ballon d’Or titles when the annual football award returns. The 2020 award ceremony was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic but with football’s return to action, the 2021 edition will see the voting commence.
Euro stars: Who will sign them this summer?
With Euro 2020 now over, attention is shifting to the upcoming domestic football season but the competition’s impact may be felt here as well. Until the first ball of a new campaign is kicked, the attention of fans tends to be fixated on the transfer market, where the Euro 2020 stars will have drawn the attention of the game’s big spenders.
Harry Kane transfer news: Manchester clubs favourites to swoop
With Euro 2020 now over, attention will switch to the new domestic season and we’re tracking the latest Harry Kane transfer news to see which teams could make a move. The England captain enjoyed another impressive tournament as his four goals helped the team go agonisingly close to winning the Euros, with Kane threatening to repeat his Golden Boot success at the 2018 World Cup.
Rebuilding a footballing dynasty – and what happened next?
With several of Europe’s leading clubs in a transitional period this summer, we’ve taken a look at which past seasons have seen the biggest exoduses of title-winning players and how it affected each team’s performances in the following years.
Sheff Utd vs Burnley: Blades can shade Clarets
Sheffield United have badly missed their home fans this season and can show what might have been by celebrating their return with a win over Burnley. Both teams have nothing to play for except pride, so the backing of even a reduced crowd at Bramall Lane could prove significant.
Leeds vs West Brom: Whites are easy form pick
Leeds have shown the benefit of a superb fitness regime and shrewd rotation policy to finish the season looking fresh and full of energy. The Whites will be seeking a fourth straight Premier League victory when entertaining a relegated West Brom side without a win in six outings.
West Brom vs West Ham: Fans can help lift Baggies
West Brom may be down but they are not out of energy or enthusiasm, judged on Sunday’s Premier League display versus Liverpool. If Albion are able to put in a similar shift on Wednesday night, they are capable of competing with a faltering West Ham outfit.
Newcastle vs Sheff Utd: Magpies worth following
Newcastle seem to be really enjoying themselves at present and get the nod to see off Sheffield United at St James’ Park. The Blades appear determined to salvage some pride from a miserable Premier League campaign but may just be outgunned if this game opens up.
West Brom vs Liverpool: Reds in determined mood
Liverpool were back on fire as an attacking force when beating Man Utd and will now be expected to brush aside West Brom. The Reds know that three more wins to finish off the season will earn them a Champions League spot and Jurgen Klopp will call for more clinical finishing up front.
Everton vs Sheff Utd: Toffees to ease past Blades
Everton are still in the hunt for a Europa League place and that should prove enough of an incentive to see off Sheffield United. The relegated Blades have lost seven of their last eight Premier League matches, with Paul Heckingbottom’s side scoring just two goals in those games.
Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa: Draw rated best option
Crystal Palace’s Premier League clash with Aston Villa very much has the feel of an end-of-season fixture with little to play for. Neither team can move much further up the table from 13th and 11th respectively and an early kick-off won’t help to bolster the energy or enthusiasm levels.
Southampton vs Crystal Palace: Stick with Saints
Southampton have had a tough run of games recently but now begin a trio of home matches which can help them end the season on a high note. Saints follow up this visit of Crystal Palace by hosting Fulham and Leeds and Ralph Hasenhuttl will be hoping to take full advantage.