The 2024-25 Premier League campaign is in the books following Sunday's final round of fixtures. H...

The 2024-25 Premier League campaign is in the books following Sunday's final round of fixtures. Here are the standout statistics and facts that define the season.0.56 - Between early November and Boxing Day, Manchester City collected just five points from the 27 on offer, which works out to 0.56 points per game. No team earned fewer points over that span. City's record thereafter (43 points from 20 games) was only bettered by Liverpool.1 - It was a season of many unwanted firsts for Manchester United. They completed their first-ever Premier League campaign without back-to-back wins. Their longest winless streak was eight matches, which is United's worst run in the Premier League era. They finished a lowly 15th in the table.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>1 - Southampton finished the season with 12 points, just one more than the worst team in Premier League history, the Derby County side that recorded 11 during their infamous 2007-08 campaign.3+3 - Bournemouth's Justin Kluivert became the first player in Premier League history - and the first in a top-flight game since 1957 - to score a hat-trick of penalties in November's 4-2 win at Wolverhampton Wanderers. Evanilson won all three penalties, marking another first in the Premier League era.5 - Arne Slot guided Liverpool to the Premier League title in his first season at the helm. He's the fifth manager in the competition's history to complete the feat after Jose Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti, Manuel Pellegrini, and Antonio Conte.6 - Nicolas Jackson, Mohammed Kudus, Cole Palmer, and Mohamed Salah will be ruing their luck after each player hit the woodwork a league-leading six times this season.7 - Southampton set a record for the earliest relegation in Premier League history. The Saints were relegated on April 6 with seven matches still left to play. They also became the first Premier League team to lose 30 games in a season.8 - Alexander Isak scored in eight straight games for Newcastle United before his run ground to a halt in a 4-1 home defeat to Bournemouth in mid-January. Jamie Vardy's 11-match streak during Leicester City's 2015-16 title-winning campaign still holds the record.13 - Arsenal's David Raya and Nottingham Forest's Matz Sels shared the Golden Glove award this season, each finishing with 13 clean sheets on the campaign.17 - Fulham registered the most goals scored by substitutes in Premier League history at 17. The previous record of 15 was shared by Arsenal (2009-10), Manchester City (2011-12), and Liverpool (2015-16).18 - Manchester United lost 18 Premier League matches this season. That's more than Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City combined (17). It's United's highest number of defeats since they recorded 20 losses and were relegated in the 1973-74 campaign.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787210/cropped_GettyImages-2216998067.jpg?ts=1748195453" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787210/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216998067.jpg?ts=1748195453 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787210/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216998067.jpg?ts=1748195453 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787210/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216998067.jpg?ts=1748195453 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787210/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216998067.jpg?ts=1748195453 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787210/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216998067.jpg?ts=1748195453 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> James Gill - Danehouse / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>20 - Liverpool are now level with hated rivals Manchester United for the most top-flight titles in English football history. Arsenal (13), Manchester City (10), and Everton (nine) complete the top five.21 - Arsenal dropped 21 points from winning positions, which is their joint-most in a single Premier League campaign. They also dropped 21 points en route to an eighth-placed finish in the 2019-20 season.23 - Remove results against the relegated trio, and Manchester United would sit bottom of the final Premier League standings with a measly haul of 23 points from a possible 87.26 - Tottenham Hotspur lost 26 matches across all competitions in the 2024-25 season, equaling a club record from 1991-92 for the most defeats in a single campaign. Nevertheless, Spurs, who finished in 17th place, qualified for the Champions League after beating Manchester United in the Europa League final.29 - Nottingham Forest qualified for the Conference League, booking their first appearance in a European competition in over 29 years. In their last continental adventure, Forest were eliminated from the UEFA Cup quarterfinals by a Jurgen Klinsmann-inspired Bayern Munich in March 1996.31 - Manchester United conceded the opening goal in 31 matches across all competitions this season. That's more than any other Premier League club.33 - Wolverhampton Wanderers were positioned 19th with just nine points from 16 matches when Vitor Pereira took over. Their haul of 33 points in 22 matches since his appointment saved them from relegation.40 - Aston Villa made Villa Park a fortress. In addition to some notable home wins over Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, and others in Champions League play, Villa tied last year's club record with 40 Premier League points earned in their own backyard. They also registered the fewest defeats in a single Premier League season at Villa Park, with last August's 2-0 loss to Arsenal the only blemish on their record.41% - Arsenal's dangerous set-pieces earned a lot of credit during the campaign, but maybe Nicolas Jover's scouting and coaching placed too much emphasis on attacking: No team conceded a higher proportion of their goals from set-pieces than Arsenal at 41%.47 - With a goal on the final day of the campaign, Golden Boot winner Salah tied the Premier League record for most goal contributions in a single season with 47 (29 goals, 18 assists). He now shares the record with Alan Shearer and Andy Cole, who reached that mark in 42-game seasons.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787202/cropped_GettyImages-2216991808.jpg?ts=1748192133" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787202/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216991808.jpg?ts=1748192133 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787202/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216991808.jpg?ts=1748192133 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787202/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216991808.jpg?ts=1748192133 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787202/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216991808.jpg?ts=1748192133 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787202/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216991808.jpg?ts=1748192133 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Carl Recine / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>54 - Fulham set a club record with their best overall points tally in a Premier League season. They got 54 points on the board to finish in 11th place.68 - William Saliba tied two members of Arsenal's Invincibles team when he made his 100th Premier League appearance for the club. He won 68 times on his way to a century of outings, putting him level with Sol Campbell and Lauren.93 - Mohamed Kudus was a regular source of frustration for West Ham United fans as he was dispossessed a league-high 93 times over the course of the season.£107.6M - Ipswich Town, who finished 19th, had the second-highest net spend last summer at £107.6 million, according to figures reported by <a href="https://www.thescore.com/epl/news/2919400">BBC Sport</a>. They raised a relative pittance in sales at under £1.5 million while bringing in the likes of Liam Delap, Jack Clarke, Arijanet Muric, Sammie Szmodics, and others in an ambitious yet ultimately insufficient recruitment drive.153 - Mark Flekken was the busiest goalkeeper in the Premier League with 153 saves. Brentford conceded the second-most goals (57) out of the teams that finished in the top half of the table.£153.5M - Brighton &amp; Hove Albion had the Premier League's highest net spend last summer despite raising significant funds with the sales of Deniz Undav, Billy Gilmour, and Pascal Gross. They finished three places higher than they did in the previous campaign, with 13 more points.185 - Salah surpassed Manchester City legend Sergio Aguero's Premier League goal tally of 184 in March to become the highest-scoring foreign player in the competition's history. He scored one more goal to end the campaign with an all-time total of 186 and counting.200 - Vardy scored his 200th goal for Leicester in his 500th and final appearance for the club.234 - The final round of fixtures marked the 234th day that Liverpool have led the 2024-25 Premier League table. Only four other teams finished a day atop English football this term: Manchester City (41 days), Brighton (seven) and Manchester United (one).574 - Premier League teams combined to use 574 different players this season, with Southampton leading the way by giving minutes to 36 players.826 - Leicester went 826 minutes without scoring a Premier League goal at the King Power Stadium before Vardy smashed the ball into the roof of the net on May 3. The fans endured a run of nine home matches with nothing to celebrate - a record since the 1888 formation of England's Football League - while opponents combined for 22 goals.843 - Kevin De Bruyne played his 285th and final Premier League match for Manchester City in the last game of the campaign. In that time, he created 843 chances, recorded 118 assists, scored 72 goals, and won six league titles.2,791 - Iliman Ndiaye scored twice to ensure Everton won their 2,791st and final match at Goodison Park on May 18. The women's team will call the iconic stadium home from next season.3,420 - Brentford defender Nathan Collins was the only outfield player to be ever-present for his team for a total of 3,420 minutes plus added time. Five goalkeepers started and finished all 38 games.

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By the numbers: Stats and facts that define 2024-25 EPL season

Christian Pulisic wasn't included in United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino's depleted squa...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/60435" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/60435">Christian Pulisic</a> wasn't included in United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino's depleted squad for this summer's Gold Cup.Pulisic, the U.S. men's national team's marquee player and most talented forward, is "beaten up physically" after consecutive grueling seasons with AC Milan, sources told <a href="https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/sources-usmnt-star-christian-pulisic-wont-play-gold-cup-summer">Doug McIntyre of FOX Sports</a>. The 26-year-old will set a new career high for minutes played in a single campaign if he surpasses 49 minutes in Milan's season finale against Monza on Saturday."Christian and his team approached the federation and the coaching staff about the possibility of stepping back this summer, given the amount of matches he has played in the past two years at both the club and international level with very little break," U.S. Soccer sporting director Matt Crocker said.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"After thoughtful discussions and careful consideration, we made the collective decision that this is the right moment for him to get the rest he needs," Crocker added, noting the importance for Pulisic to "perform at the highest level next season" ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which is co-hosted by the United States.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///intfr/players/67049" href="https://thescore.com/intfr/players/67049">Cameron Carter-Vickers</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/167254" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/167254">Yunus Musah</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/94902" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/94902">Antonee Robinson</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/99893" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/99893">Joe Scally</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fran/players/165826" href="https://thescore.com/fran/players/165826">Tanner Tessmann</a> were other notable names left off Pochettino's roster. Fellow absentees <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/92825" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/92825">Weston McKennie</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/50017" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/50017">Jordan Morris</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/161127" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/161127">Gio Reyna</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/40754" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/40754">Cristian Roldan</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/99646" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/99646">Tim Weah</a> were already expected to miss the tournament.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///intfr/players/162357" href="https://thescore.com/intfr/players/162357">Sergino Dest</a> returned to the national team fold for the first time since March 2024 after recovering from a torn ACL and helping PSV Eindhoven win the Eredivisie title. Monaco striker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fran/players/162980" href="https://thescore.com/fran/players/162980">Folarin Balogun</a> is in the squad after battling shoulder issues during a four-goal Ligue 1 campaign.The Vancouver Whitecaps' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/165228" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/165228">Sebastian Berhalter</a>, Koln's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///gerdfbp/players/193314" href="https://thescore.com/gerdfbp/players/193314">Damion Downs</a>, Orlando City's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/187895" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/187895">Alex Freeman</a>, and the Philadelphia Union's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/178368" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/178368">Quinn Sullivan</a> earned their first USMNT call-ups.The Gold Cup begins June 14 and is hosted primarily in the United States. The U.S., a seven-time winner of the tournament, will meet old foe Trinidad and Tobago on June 15 before closing out group play against Haiti and guest nation Saudi Arabia.The team will warm up for the Gold Cup with friendlies against Turkey (June 7) and Switzerland (June 10). The current 27-man roster needs to be trimmed to 26 players before the tournament kicks off.<h3>USMNT squad</h3>Goalkeepers: Matt Freese (New York City), Patrick Schulte (Columbus), Zack Steffen (Colorado), Matt Turner (Crystal Palace)Defenders: Max Arfsten (Columbus), Sergino Dest (PSV Eindhoven), Alex Freeman (Orlando), DeJuan Jones (San Jose), Mark McKenzie (Toulouse), Tim Ream (Charlotte), Chris Richards (Crystal Palace), Miles Robinson (Cincinnati)Midfielders: Brenden Aaronson (Leeds), Tyler Adams (Bournemouth), Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver), Johnny Cardoso (Real Betis), Luca de la Torre (San Diego), Diego Luna (Salt Lake), Jack McGlynn (Houston), Quinn Sullivan (Philadelphia), Malik Tillman (PSV Eindhoven), Sean Zawadzki (Columbus)Forwards: Patrick Agyemang (Charlotte), Folarin Balogun (Monaco). Damion Downs (Cologne), Brian White (Vancouver), Haji Wright (Coventry)

INGLEWOOD, CA - MARCH 20: Weston McKennie #8 and Christian Pulisic #10 of USA warm up before the CONCACAF Nations League semifinal match between United States and Panama at SoFi Stadium on March 20, 2025 in Inglewood, California.

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Pulisic among USMNT stars missing Gold Cup this summer

Luka Modric will play his final match for Real Madrid at this summer's Club World Cup after becom...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///liga/players/1910" href="https://thescore.com/liga/players/1910">Luka Modric</a> will play his final match for Real Madrid at this summer's Club World Cup after becoming Los Blancos' most decorated player over 13 seasons in the Spanish capital.The midfielder, 39, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DJ9VH8JMz84/?img_index=1">announced</a> his upcoming departure on Instagram. He's set to play his last game for Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu against Real Sociedad on Saturday.Modric, a Ballon d'Or winner in 2018, won his last piece of silverware with Real Madrid at the Club World Cup in December, taking him to a club-record 28 titles with Real Madrid. He also surpassed Ferenc Puskas as the oldest footballer to both play and score for Real Madrid.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Modric's gold rush<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Competition</th>
<th>Wins</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Champions League</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>La Liga</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Copa del Rey</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Club World Cup</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UEFA Super Cup</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Supercopa de Espana</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>"I am leaving with a full heart," the Croatian icon said in his social media post. "Full of pride, gratitude, and indelible memories. And although, after the Club World Cup, I will no longer wear this shirt on the pitch, I will always be a Real Madrid fan."Modric has appeared in 34 of 37 La Liga matches this season and started 11 of the team's 14 Champions League games before its elimination by Arsenal in the quarterfinals. He initially wanted to stay longer, but it was decided that he would instead depart following talks with the Real Madrid hierarchy this week, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6235469/2025/05/22/luka-modric-real-madrid-leaves/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Mario Cortegana and Guillermo Rai</a>.Croatia's record appearance holder (186 caps) appears set for a prolonged Real Madrid farewell in the United States. The Spanish giants take on Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal, Mexico's Pachuca, and Austria's Red Bull Salzburg in the Club World Cup group stage before presumably embarking on a knockout run featuring the biggest football institutions on the globe.“Luka Modric will forever remain in the hearts of all Madridistas as a unique and exemplary footballer who has always embodied the values of Real Madrid," club president Florentino Perez <a href="https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/news/club/announcements/comunicado-oficial-22-05-2025">said</a>. "His football has captured the imagination of Madridismo and fans all over the world. His legacy will live on forever."Modric joined Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur for around £30 million in 2012 and won his first trophy in the Supercopa de Espana two days after his arrival. He played four seasons with Tottenham after rising through the ranks to become a legendary figure at Dinamo Zagreb in his homeland.

MADRID, SPAIN - JUNE 02: Luka Modric of Real Madrid celebrates with Trophy at Fuente de Cibeles during Real Madrid UEFA Champions League Trophy Parade on June 02, 2024 in Madrid, Spain.

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Modric leaving Real Madrid after Club World Cup

Tottenham Hotspur beat Manchester United 1-0 in an ugly Europa League final on Wednesday, simulta...

Tottenham Hotspur beat Manchester United 1-0 in an ugly Europa League final on Wednesday, simultaneously ending the club's 17-year trophy drought and salvaging an otherwise dismal season with Champions League qualification.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/161384" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/161384">Brennan Johnson</a> decided the encounter in Bilbao with a goal near the end of the first half. It was the first time Spurs had scored in a final since Jonathan Woodgate headed the winner in the 2008 League Cup showpiece.Spurs' joy after the final whistle starkly contrasted the expressions on the Manchester United players' faces. The club can finish no higher than 14th in the 2024-25 Premier League campaign, failed to collect silverware elsewhere, and won't compete in any European competition next term.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Both winning manager Ange Postecoglou and losing coach Ruben Amorim might not be in charge of their teams at the beginning of next season. However, against all odds and in clear defiance of eye tests throughout Tottenham's error-strewn term, Postecoglou has delivered on his promise of silverware in his second season with the club."It was me just making a declaration, and I believed it - at the time I said it, I was still looking out for our club," Postecoglou <a href="https://www.barrons.com/news/postecoglou-wants-to-build-on-spurs-europa-league-triumph-despite-exit-talk-2624efd8">explained</a> after the match. "I know our league form has been terrible, but us finishing third wasn't going to change this football club. The only thing that was going to change this football club was us winning something. And when I said that, that was my intent."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786753/cropped_GettyImages-2216327778.jpg?ts=1747861796" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786753/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216327778.jpg?ts=1747861796 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786753/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216327778.jpg?ts=1747861796 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786753/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216327778.jpg?ts=1747861796 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786753/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216327778.jpg?ts=1747861796 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786753/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216327778.jpg?ts=1747861796 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Ian MacNicol / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The opening period between the Premier League's fourth- and fifth-worst teams was predictably scrappy, punctuated by 16 fouls and a punishing lowlight reel of heavy or wayward passes. Tottenham's first goal suited the spectacle.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/168027" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/168027">Pape Sarr</a>'s dangerous cross in the 42nd minute was somehow diverted past <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/40714" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/40714">Andre Onana</a> as Johnson and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/16428" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/16428">Luke Shaw</a> collided at the near post. Johnson was generously credited with the goal.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/163335" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/163335">Amad Diallo</a> was United's best attacking outlet, but the young Ivorian winger lacked a decisive touch whenever he squirmed free of white shirts.The quality was no better after the break. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/187791" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/187791">Rasmus Hojlund</a> headed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/94759" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/94759">Guglielmo Vicario</a>'s poor punch straight over his head and toward the goalkeeper's net, only to be denied by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/184932" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/184932">Micky van de Ven</a>'s athletic hook on the goal line. Vicario saved a late Shaw header, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/17430" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/17430">Casemiro</a>'s overhead kick hit the side-netting, but United struggled to create many meaningful chances in northern Spain."For a club like Manchester United, it's nowhere near good enough," Shaw <a href="https://www.barrons.com/news/man-utd-must-make-changes-after-unacceptable-season-says-shaw-6def7ce4">said</a> after the match. "I think definitely me, and I think all of us have to question ourselves tonight, are we good enough to be here? Because this club, this season, it's not acceptable."

Tottenham Hotspur's South Korean forward #07 Son Heung-min raises the trophy as he celebrates with teammates winning the UEFA Europa League final football match between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United at San Mames stadium in Bilbao on May 21, 2025.

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Spurs beat Man United in Europa League final to end 17-year trophy drought

Lionel Messi urged Inter Miami to stay together after Sunday night's 3-0 home defeat to Orlando C...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1126" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1126">Lionel Messi</a> urged Inter Miami to stay together after Sunday night's 3-0 home defeat to Orlando City extended the team's dour run to one win, one draw, and five losses in their last seven games."(We need to) keep going. It's a complicated time," Messi told Apple TV post-match, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45216517/lionel-miami-inter-miami-orlando-city-loss">ESPN's Lizzy Becherano</a>. "But we'll all stay united. We're a team in difficult times, because when everyone wins, it's easy, but now that difficult times are coming, that's when we have to be more united than ever, be a true team, and move forward, because we have what it takes."The cold stretch is a stark change for an ambitious Inter Miami project that soared in 2024, winning the Supporters' Shield with a Major League Soccer regular-season points record of 74. However, the team has regressed since Messi's former Barcelona and Argentina teammate Javier Mascherano replaced Gerardo "Tata" Martino as head coach in the offseason.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Messi, his long-time colleagues from his Barcelona days - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/4433" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/4433">Luis Suarez</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1114" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1114">Sergio Busquets</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1341" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1341">Jordi Alba</a> - and other players in Mascherano's ranks appeared tired and hampered by an unbalanced lineup in a 5-1 aggregate defeat to the Vancouver Whitecaps in the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinals in April. Their league form has fallen off a cliff since the two-legged affair with Vancouver kicked off.Miami's last seven games<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Competition</th>
<th>Result</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>April 24</td>
<td>CCC</td>
<td>2-0 loss at Vancouver</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>April 27</td>
<td>MLS</td>
<td>4-3 loss at FC Dallas</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>April 30</td>
<td>CCC</td>
<td>3-1 loss vs. Vancouver</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>May 3</td>
<td>MLS</td>
<td>4-1 win vs. New York Red Bulls</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>May 10</td>
<td>MLS</td>
<td>4-1 loss at Minnesota</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>May 14</td>
<td>MLS</td>
<td>3-3 draw at San Jose</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>May 18</td>
<td>MLS</td>
<td>3-0 loss vs. Orlando</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>Inter Miami are sixth in the MLS Eastern Conference, seven points adrift of first-placed Philadelphia Union. Miami travels to Philadelphia next Saturday.The MLS franchise, which counts David Beckham as one of its owners, is desperate to avoid global embarrassment as it takes its woeful form into the Club World Cup. Inter Miami open the U.S.-hosted tournament with a match against Egypt's Al Ahly on June 14 before meetings with Portugal's FC Porto and Brazil's Palmeiras conclude their group stage."We're coming off a period of bad results," Messi said. "But we have to keep working and think about what's next. With three or four games left in May, we (have to) finish the best possible way to be able to face the Club World Cup."The pressure is rising on Mascherano. The former defensive midfielder, whose many major honors as a Barcelona player included two Champions League crowns, tried to deflect scrutiny away from the stars in his squad."It's clear that we must overcome this all together because clearly this team has shown, especially at the beginning of the season, what they are capable of," Mascherano said Sunday."Right now, I take full responsibility. I will not point out any players publicly, I am not that way. No one enters the pitch trying to have a bad time or to suffer. Every player tries to do their best with virtues and errors, and now we have to try to get the best out of these players to move forward."

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - MAY 18: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami FC reacts after missing a goal during the game against Orlando City SC at Chase Stadium on May 18, 2025 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

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Messi calls for unity after Inter Miami slump to another defeat

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has paid for 30 members of his backroom staff to take t...

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has paid for 30 members of his backroom staff to take their families to the Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur on May 21, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45128484/man-united-ruben-amorim-pay-30-staff-attend-uel-final-sources">ESPN's Mark Ogden</a>.The Portuguese boss' move follows United executives reportedly informing him that his coaches, physios, and support team would have to buy their own tickets as the club introduces more cost-cutting measures this summer. Up to 200 people could lose their jobs this offseason as co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe tries to improve the club's financial state, Ogden reports.Manchester United's debt is currently at £731.5 million, and they could owe even more than that in interest payments, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6352213/2025/05/13/glazers-manchester-united-debt-takeover/">The Athletic's Phil Hay</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The club decided to make staff pay for their own tickets so supporters have a better chance of being part of United's allocation of 15,000 seats at Bilbao's Estadio San Mames, sources told Ogden. But 60 of those tickets could now be taken after Amorim decided to ensure his staff can bring up to two friends or family members as a reward for their hard work during a tough period for the club.Manchester United are 16th in the Premier League and have lost 17 matches - their most in a single campaign since they were relegated in 1974. However, the Europa League final promises to save the season of either United or Tottenham, who are a position below Amorim's side in England's top flight, as victory earns a place in next term's lucrative opening phase of the Champions League.Last season, Manchester United reached the FA Cup final amid strong speculation that Amorim's predecessor, Erik ten Hag, would be sacked regardless of the result. United subsequently beat local rivals Manchester City at Wembley Stadium, and Ten Hag kept his job - only to be dismissed after just nine matches of this Premier League campaign. Ratcliffe has since admitted it was a mistake to extend Ten Hag's contract.United have fallen two places in the league standings since Amorim took the reins in November and lost to Fulham in the FA Cup and Tottenham in the League Cup. The club intends to keep Amorim even if his side loses to Spurs in the Europa League final, according to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/may/13/manchester-united-ruben-amorim-europa-league-final">The Guardian's Jamie Jackson</a>.

BRENTFORD, ENGLAND - MAY 04: Manager Ruben Amorim of Manchester United watches from the dugout during the Premier League match between Brentford FC and Manchester United FC at Brentford Community Stadium on May 04, 2025 in Brentford, England.

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The Derby County class of 2007-08 remains the worst team in Premier League history.  Southampton ...

The Derby County class of 2007-08 remains the worst team in Premier League history.Southampton are now on 12 points - one above Derby's unwanted record - following Saturday's battling 0-0 draw against last season's champions Manchester City. The bottom-placed Saints have two more matches to add to their tally.Pep Guardiola called <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/159246" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/159246">Jeremy Doku</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/192475" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/192475">Nico O'Reilly</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/189140" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/189140">Savinho</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/166016" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/166016">Omar Marmoush</a> off the bench in the second half as City searched for a breakthrough. However, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/68746" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/68746">Aaron Ramsdale</a>'s inspired goalkeeping and some heroic last-ditch defending ensured Southampton kept a clean sheet. The hosts were also saved by the woodwork when Marmoush smacked the crossbar in the 91st minute.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Manchester City, who are embroiled in the battle to qualify for the Champions League via a top-five finish, attempted 26 shots to Southampton's two. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/159222" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/159222">Erling Haaland</a> played the full 90 minutes after a six-week injury layoff but could only muster a single attempt on goal.Aside from Ramsdale's athleticism between the sticks, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/69541" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/69541">Jan Bednarek</a> summed up Southampton's defense-first approach on the south coast as he smashed 13 clearances away from danger.Rams vs. Saints<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>2007-08 Derby</th>
<th>Stat</th>
<th>2024-25 Southampton*</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td>Points</td>
<td>12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1-8-29</td>
<td>W-D-L</td>
<td>2-6-28</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>20</td>
<td>Goals scored</td>
<td>25</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>89</td>
<td>Goals conceded</td>
<td>82</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>-69</td>
<td>Goal difference</td>
<td>-57</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>* Two matches remainingSouthampton have a clear statistical superiority over Derby's infamous flops, but they set a record for the earliest relegation in Premier League history April 6 when their descent was confirmed with seven matches left to play.Southampton conclude their sorry campaign with a trip to Everton and a visit from Arsenal.

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - MAY 10: Jack Stephens of Southampton during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Manchester City FC at St Mary's Stadium on May 10, 2025 in Southampton, England.

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Paris Saint-Germain overcame Arsenal in the Champions League semifinals via a 3-1 aggregate score...

Paris Saint-Germain overcame Arsenal in the Champions League semifinals via a 3-1 aggregate scoreline following Wednesday's 2-1 win in the second leg at the Parc des Princes.Goals from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/58232" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/58232">Fabian Ruiz</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/87955" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/87955">Achraf Hakimi</a> helped send PSG into a Champions League final showdown with Inter Milan on May 31. The serial Ligue 1 winners are chasing their first title in Europe's premier competition."It's a great feeling. We've done a great job to deserve all this, we have to make the most of it," <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/19670" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/19670">Marquinhos</a>, PSG's captain, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3282352" href="https://thescore.com/news/3282352">said</a> post-match. "We've done our job to get to the final, but it's not over yet. We want more, we want to win this title."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The ever-dangerous <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/154299" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/154299">Khvicha Kvaratskhelia</a> hit the post during the opening exchanges, but Arsenal started the strongest in the French capital. The visitors forced <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/43614" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/43614">Gianluigi Donnarumma</a> into two otherworldly saves reminiscent of Inter goalkeeper <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/10535" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/10535">Yann Sommer</a>'s exploits the prior evening.But PSG doubled their aggregate advantage in the 27th minute. Ruiz intelligently chested the ball to his left, easily bypassing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/161088" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/161088">Gabriel Martinelli</a>'s defensive efforts, before bashing a vicious shot into the bottom corner from the edge of the box. It was a timely and impressive way for the Spaniard to score his first Champions League goal.During a flurry of activity just after the hour mark, Donnarumma made another excellent stop when he tipped away <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/106844" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/106844">Bukayo Saka</a>'s curler toward the top corner, and then <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/24606" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/24606">David Raya</a> saved Hakimi's deflected hit. However, after a check of the pitchside monitor, it was ruled that the deflection hit <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/192369" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/192369">Myles Lewis-Skelly</a>'s hand. A penalty was awarded.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/165381" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/165381">Vitinha</a> crept toward the ball like a lion stalking its prey, but his spot-kick had no bite. Raya pushed his tame penalty past the post.Arsenal's respite was brief. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/49894" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/49894">Thomas Partey</a> was indecisive as the ball rolled toward him around 20 yards from his own goal, and Hakimi waded in to win possession before sweeping home <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/61590" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/61590">Ousmane Dembele</a>'s return pass. The experienced yet energetic Moroccan full-back registered the most touches (71) while largely shutting down Arsenal's left flank, and was later named the Player of the Match.Saka's close-range finish promptly put Arsenal back to within two goals of PSG over both legs, but he was guilty of skying the ball over an open net as Mikel Arteta's men tried, and eventually failed, to resuscitate their Champions League dream."You can see the atmosphere is magnificent. We have worked so hard for this moment," Hakimi reflected. "It was a difficult match and we're very happy and proud to win."

PARIS, FRANCE - MAY 07: Fabian Ruiz of Paris Saint-Germain celebrates after scoring with teammates Achraf Hakimi and Joao Neves during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Semi Final Second Leg match between Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal FC at Parc des Princes on May 07, 2025 in Paris, France.

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PSG eye 1st UCL crown after finishing off Arsenal: 'We want more'

Carlo Ancelotti and Real Madrid have reached a verbal agreement over the terms of his exit from t...

Carlo Ancelotti and Real Madrid have reached a verbal agreement over the terms of his exit from the club, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6333137/2025/05/05/carlo-ancelotti-real-madrid-exit-agreement/">The Athletic's Mario Cortegana and Adam Crafton</a>.The Italian coach previously <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3279761" href="https://thescore.com/news/3279761">said</a> he would announce his future plans once the team concludes its La Liga campaign against Real Sociedad on May 25. However, an official announcement stating that Ancelotti is leaving the club a year before the expiration of his contract could arrive sooner, perhaps when Sunday's much-anticipated league duel with Barcelona is over, Cortegana and Crafton reported.That would leave Real Madrid on the lookout for a new head coach before their opening Club World Cup match against Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal on June 18.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Bayer Leverkusen's Xabi Alonso appears to be a front-runner to succeed Ancelotti and he <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3279407" href="https://thescore.com/news/3279407">publicly acknowledged</a> last week that he was awaiting developments from the Spanish capital before he can determine where he'll work next season. He's viewed as a stronger appointment than internal candidates such as Raul Gonzalez - the former forward commonly known as Raul who oversees the reserve side Castilla - and Alvaro Arbeloa, the boss of the under-19 Juvenil A team.Ancelotti, meanwhile, is widely expected to take over the Brazil men's national team. He met with representatives from the Brazilian Football Confederation in London on April 28 but a move stalled because he was yet to reach a definitive agreement over his Real Madrid future, according to Cortegana and Crafton. However, an agreement for Ancelotti to coach current Real Madrid players <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///liga/players/101248" href="https://thescore.com/liga/players/101248">Vinicius Junior</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///liga/players/160984" href="https://thescore.com/liga/players/160984">Rodrygo</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///liga/players/102257" href="https://thescore.com/liga/players/102257">Eder Militao</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///liga/players/204112" href="https://thescore.com/liga/players/204112">Endrick</a> on the international stage is now anticipated before Brazil's World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador (June 5) and Paraguay (June 10).

Carlo Ancelotti head coach of Real Madrid reacts during the La Liga match between Real Madrid CF and RC Celta de Vigo at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on May 4, 2025 in Madrid, Spain.

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Harry Kane will hoist the first trophy of his career after Bayer Leverkusen's 2-2 draw at Freibur...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/3804" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/3804">Harry Kane</a> will hoist the first trophy of his career after Bayer Leverkusen's 2-2 draw at Freiburg on Sunday officially handed the Bundesliga title to Bayern Munich.Bayern are eight points clear of last season's champions with two matches left to play.The Bavarians almost clinched the title Saturday while Kane watched from the stands. The Englishman was suspended for the trip to RB Leipzig for yellow-card accumulation, but RB Leipzig legend <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/28383" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/28383">Yussuf Poulsen</a>'s last-gasp equalizer in a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3279870" href="https://thescore.com/news/3279870">wild 3-3 draw</a> delayed the celebrations.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Bayern's coronation can now take place in front of their home supporters when Borussia Monchengladbach visit the Allianz Arena on Saturday.Kane's failure to collect silverware threatened to overshadow his relentless goal-scoring exploits for club and country. It was a stick to beat him with, and his hecklers reached for it repeatedly when Bayern surrendered the Bundesliga crown to Leverkusen in his first season at the club in 2023-24, ending an unprecedented 11-year reign. Bayern also fell short in the DFB-Pokal, DFL-Supercup, and Champions League while Kane racked up 44 goals across all competitions and won the European Golden Shoe.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784013/cropped_GettyImages-2168862195.jpg?ts=1746379613" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784013/w220xh124_GettyImages-2168862195.jpg?ts=1746379613 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784013/w320xh180_GettyImages-2168862195.jpg?ts=1746379613 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784013/w640xh360_GettyImages-2168862195.jpg?ts=1746379613 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784013/w768xh432_GettyImages-2168862195.jpg?ts=1746379613 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784013/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2168862195.jpg?ts=1746379613 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> S. Mellar / FC Bayern / Getty</figcaption></figure>Bayern Munich's pursuit of Champions League glory this season ended with a quarterfinal defeat to Inter Milan. They lost to Leverkusen in the last 16 of the DFB-Pokal.The 31-year-old striker's prior spell with Tottenham Hotspur included one runners-up finish and two third-place finishes in the Premier League and losses in two League Cup finals and one Champions League final. With England, he's a defeated finalist in the past two European Championships, he suffered heartbreak in a World Cup semifinal against Croatia in 2018, and he nervously skied a penalty in a narrow 2022 World Cup quarterfinal loss to France.But shifting his trophy hunt to Germany paid off in his second season. Kane effectively fired the Bavarians to their 34th German crown with 24 goals and seven assists over his 29 appearances so far. The €100-million frontman's attacking contributions have been complemented by the league's meanest defense, standout individual campaigns from the likes of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/166065" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/166065">Jamal Musiala</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/159481" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/159481">Michael Olise</a>, and the experience of outgoing icon <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/2232" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/2232">Thomas Muller</a> and the many other serial Bundesliga winners in the Bayern Munich squad."There are many people who, throughout my career, only talk about the fact I haven't won a title yet. It would be nice to silence a few of them," Kane <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3274283" href="https://thescore.com/news/3274283">said</a> in late April.Former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany also won the first major trophy of his managerial career following Saturday's result in Saxony. Despite the many successes of his playing days, his appointment last summer was met with widespread surprise after he was criticized for an ambitious playing style that appeared to hasten Burnley's relegation from the Premier League.

MUNICH, GERMANY - APRIL 26: Harry Kane of FC Bayern Muenchen celebrates with his teammates their sides victory after the Bundesliga match between FC Bayern München and 1. FSV Mainz 05 at Allianz Arena on April 26, 2025 in Munich, Germany.

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Frank Lampard's Coventry City and Bristol City joined Sheffield United and Sunderland in the four...

Frank Lampard's Coventry City and Bristol City joined Sheffield United and Sunderland in the four-team playoffs for promotion to the Premier League following Saturday's Championship finale.Michael Carrick's Middlesbrough missed out on securing a playoff place after their 2-0 defeat at Coventry. Blackburn Rovers drew 1-1 at Sheffield United when a win would've sent them into the playoffs due to results elsewhere. Millwall's promotion hopes were extinguished by a 3-1 reverse at Burnley.Leeds United clinched the Championship title ahead of Burnley thanks to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engch/players/93055" href="https://thescore.com/engch/players/93055">Manor Solomon</a>'s 91st-minute winner in a 2-1 victory at Plymouth Argyle. Plymouth were relegated to the third tier on the final day despite some promising performances under head coach Miron Muslic in the wake of Wayne Rooney's departure at the end of December.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Luton Town suffered back-to-back relegations after losing 5-3 at West Bromwich Albion. The Hatters beat Newcastle United and Brighton &amp; Hove Albion in the Premier League only last season, but will now take on the likes of Stevenage and Burton Albion during the 2025-26 League One campaign.The descent of Cardiff City, who are under the caretaker charge of former Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey, was confirmed the previous weekend. The Bluebirds concluded the campaign with a 4-2 loss at Norwich City and finished bottom of the Championship standings, as Birmingham City and fellow Welsh club Wrexham enjoy promotion to the second tier from League One.The two-legged Championship playoff semifinals will run as follows:<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Fixture</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>May 8</td>
<td>Bristol City vs. Sheffield United</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>May 9</td>
<td>Coventry City vs. Sunderland</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>May 12</td>
<td>Sheffield United vs. Bristol City</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>May 13</td>
<td>Sunderland vs. Coventry City</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>The Championship playoff final is set for May 24 at Wembley Stadium.

Coventry City head coach Frank Lampard celebrates after the Sky Bet Championship match at the Coventry Building Society Arena. Picture date: Saturday May 3, 2025.

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Championship finale: Lampard's Coventry reach playoffs, Luton relegated

Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney celebrated in the stands as Wrexham secured a third successive p...

Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney celebrated in the stands as Wrexham secured a third successive promotion Saturday.The Welsh outfit has now climbed from the fifth tier to the Championship, which is one rung below England's Premier League, since the actors became co-owners in 2021 and started to financially outmuscle most of Wrexham's league rivals during the club's rapid ascent. Their experiences navigating the world of soccer feature in the award-winning documentary series "Welcome to Wrexham."Wrexham's latest promotion was confirmed with a 3-0 home victory over Charlton Athletic courtesy of a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/94888" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/94888">Sam Smith</a> brace and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/85060" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/85060">Oliver Rathbone</a>'s opener from outside the box.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Documentary favorite <a href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/22923">Paul Mullin</a>, who had a cameo role in Reynolds' 2024 movie "Deadpool &amp; Wolverine," wasn't in the matchday squad and hasn't played a minute since January. <a href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/24063">Ollie Palmer</a>, another player whose fame skyrocketed after appearing in "Welcome to Wrexham," has also fallen out of favor in Phil Parkinson's side.Former Premier League regulars <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/1550" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/1550">Steven Fletcher</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/15213" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/15213">James McClean</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/53462" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/53462">Jay Rodriguez</a> are among the stars of Wrexham's latest success."It just seemed like an impossible dream," Reynolds reflected on the team reaching the Championship, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/wrexham-promotion-charlton-ryan-reynolds-58d5d3744c969460194f59593906e798">James Robson of The Associated Press</a>. "We said five years ago our goal was to make it to the Premier League. There were understandably a lot of laughs, but it feels like a thing that could make it to fruition right now."Wrexham won't be promoted as champions of League One. Birmingham City, who are co-owned by NFL legend Tom Brady, romped to the title after spending heavily to ensure an immediate return to England's second tier.Wrexham are guaranteed to meet some famous names in the Championship next season, including West Bromwich Albion, Sheffield Wednesday, 2008 FA Cup winners Portsmouth, and fellow Welsh side Swansea City. One team from Sheffield United, Sunderland, Bristol City, Coventry City, Millwall, Blackburn Rovers, and Middlesbrough will clamber out of the Championship via the four-team promotion playoffs.Burnley and Leeds United have already secured promotion to the Premier League.

WREXHAM, WALES - APRIL 26: Ryan Reynolds co-owner of Wrexham celebrates the opening goal ahead of the Sky Bet League One match between Wrexham AFC and Charlton Athletic FC at Racecourse Ground on April 26, 2025 in Wrexham, Wales.

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Hollywood-backed Wrexham reach 2nd tier after 3rd straight promotion

Burnley and Leeds United's return to the Premier League was confirmed Monday with two matches lef...

Burnley and Leeds United's return to the Premier League was confirmed Monday with two matches left of the Championship campaign.The Clarets rubber-stamped their promotion with a 2-1 victory over third-placed Sheffield United. Scott Parker's side has the meanest defense in professional English football - and by some distance - with just 15 goals conceded in 44 outings.Sheffield United's defeat also put Leeds, who have the strongest attack in England's top four divisions with 89 goals scored, out of reach in the automatic promotion places. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engch/players/140119" href="https://thescore.com/engch/players/140119">Joel Piroe</a> scored four goals as Daniel Farke's Leeds smashed Stoke City 6-0 at Elland Road earlier Monday.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The race for the two promotion places long appeared to be a three-way battle between Leeds (who are top on goal difference), Burnley, and Sheffield United. However, the latter slipped away from contention with four defeats in their last five matches. Before Monday's loss at Burnley, the Blades fell to Oxford United, Millwall, and Plymouth Argyle.Those surprise defeats have tested the previously strong relationship between Sheffield United supporters and Chris Wilder, who's in charge of his hometown club. "It is a joke, it's a disgrace," Wilder complained about the fans' treatment of his players following the 1-0 defeat at Oxford United, according to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cj45nd75202o">BBC Sport's Ian Woodcock</a>.Sheffield United fans seemed to ironically cheer at least one substitution during the Burnley defeat, as some disagreed with Wilder's team selection at Turf Moor.The moods at Burnley and Leeds, meanwhile, are wildly different.Captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engch/players/24201" href="https://thescore.com/engch/players/24201">Josh Brownhill</a> scored both Burnley goals to earn the win over Sheffield United before jubilant locals invaded the pitch. "We've been written off so many times, people calling us boring," Brownhill told Sky Sports via <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/live/c1wdj8p30q0t?post=asset%3Ac8d54598-18b7-4031-9d25-f6d2062242c5#post">BBC Sport</a>. "We've bored our way to the Premier League."Leeds were in the Championship for two seasons. Their promotion marks a much quicker recovery than when they were relegated in 2004 and subsequently spent 16 difficult years in England's second and third tiers."Not to put a dampener on it, we've still got another target we want to achieve. So we're going to enjoy tonight and then we're going to try and do the full thing," Leeds' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engch/players/84998" href="https://thescore.com/engch/players/84998">Ethan Ampadu</a> told Sky Sports of the team's ambition to clinch the Championship title over the final two games, according to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/live/c1wdj8p30q0t?post=asset%3A267cf812-2f1b-4e46-899f-319db76b0a32#post">BBC Sport</a>.

BURNLEY, ENGLAND - APRIL 21: Josh Brownhill of Burnley celebrates scoring his team's second goal from the penalty-spot during the Sky Bet Championship match between Burnley FC and Sheffield United FC at Turf Moor on April 21, 2025 in Burnley, England.

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Burnley, Leeds return to EPL as Sheffield United prepare for playoff battle

Note: This story was originally published in March during Women's History Month, and is being rep...

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Inside story of Canada's new pro women's soccer league

Ezri Konsa covered his face in bemusement as the camera panned across both teams' lineups before ...

Ezri Konsa covered his face in bemusement as the camera panned across both teams' lineups before Tuesday's Champions League contest.The pre-match gaffe of Villa Park playing the livelier Europa League anthem rather than the more grandiose and moving Champions League theme led to sharp-tongued claims that it reflected the club's inexperience in the competition. After all, the second leg of their quarterfinal against Paris Saint-Germain was Aston Villa's biggest continental fixture since winning the 1982 European Cup. This season marked their first appearance in the competition since 1983, well before it was rebranded as the Champions League.But Aston Villa's place at Europe's top table shouldn't be questioned after Tuesday's 5-4 aggregate defeat to PSG. Konsa <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3268186" href="https://thescore.com/news/3268186">expressed pride</a> following the final whistle, his earlier embarrassment long abandoned after the team and its fans created a spectacle that belonged at the pinnacle of club football.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The deafening crowd produced a tifo in the Holte End with two roaring lions on either side of the message, "This is Villa Park," to mark the occasion. Tens of thousands of scarves were held aloft, creating an artful dappling of white across the packed claret-and-blue house. Even when PSG scored twice within 27 minutes to carve out a four-goal aggregate advantage, the supporters weren't truly silenced."At that point, they didn't have anything to lose because they lost the first match and (halfway through) the first half. The atmosphere in the stadium was very nice," PSG head coach Luis Enrique told Amazon Prime, according to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/live/c62zl031lmvt?post=asset%3Ac636aa3d-f0f8-4ac3-873c-3ec6ee756016#post">BBC Sport</a>.The grand stadium that perches over the Aston neighborhood of Birmingham, and the fans who fill it, adds a lot to the Champions League. That should've been clear after October's rousing victory over Bayern Munich in the league phase. It was made painstakingly obvious Tuesday.Unai Emery's team adds an awful lot, too. His players rallied with three goals, and it was fitting that the driving forces of the comeback attempt - one that, if completed, would've been among the most iconic in Champions League history - were John McGinn and Marcus Rashford. The scrappy captain with the generously proportioned backside, who did the hard yards with Villa in the Championship, and a forward with 80 European appearances - almost half of which are in the Champions League - who is a symbol of the club's soaring ambition.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780789/cropped_GettyImages-2210455625.jpg?ts=1744760656" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780789/w220xh124_GettyImages-2210455625.jpg?ts=1744760656 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780789/w320xh180_GettyImages-2210455625.jpg?ts=1744760656 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780789/w640xh360_GettyImages-2210455625.jpg?ts=1744760656 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780789/w768xh432_GettyImages-2210455625.jpg?ts=1744760656 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780789/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2210455625.jpg?ts=1744760656 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Harry Murphy - AVFC / Aston Villa FC / Getty</figcaption></figure>McGinn bounced around with the zip and bite of Max Verstappen ripping around in a bumper car, setting the tone for the rest of Emery's men. He also showcased an ability to compose himself when it counted. He filled a space in front of PSG's backline before smartly rolling the ball to Youri Tielemans for Villa's first goal. He then ratcheted up the stadium's volume even more when he carried the ball forward from his own end early in the second half. The PSG defenders eventually converged on him, but it was too late. He had the room to smash a long-range shot past Gianluigi Donnarumma via a slight deflection off defender Willian Pacho.Rashford, meanwhile, hints at what's to come for Villa. Like fellow January loan signing Marco Asensio, it would've been hard to imagine Rashford ever playing for Aston Villa only last summer. The Manchester United outcast had so far delivered brief flashes of excellence to help repay Emery for the chance to rebuild his career, but he came alive after McGinn's goal. He soon drifted in from the flank and forced Donnarumma into an excellent save. Then, from the resulting corner, he provided one of the standout assists of the Champions League campaign.His corner was repelled from the box, but Rashford had the awareness and will to rush back into an onside position while Matty Cash rose to head the initial clearance back toward danger. The ball plopped down at Rashford's feet on the right wing. The Mancunian nonchalantly evaded an overcommitted Fabian Ruiz, fled past Vitinha with a slick sway of his hips, then had the presence of mind to ignore the cluster of players crammed into the 6-yard box, and played the ball back to Konsa. The defender slammed in Villa's third goal with the precision of a seasoned striker.Were it not for Donnarumma, Villa would have come all the way back.The Italian has made his fair share of high-profile mistakes at PSG. But on this occasion, he was faultless for Villa's three goals and frustrated the hosts as six more shots were fired on target but couldn't find the net, including a late Asensio breakaway. One of those efforts might have beaten Donnarumma in the final seconds had it gotten through, but Pacho heroically blocked substitute Ian Maatsen's well-struck attempt.Villa were so close to sending the match to extra time and potentially fashioning another famous European result. It was a scenario few could have envisaged when they were four goals adrift on aggregate against the hottest team in Europe."We wanted to go out there and just prove a point," Konsa explained of the team's fight.After going toe-to-toe with many people's favorites to win the Champions League, consider that point proven.

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Aston Villa showed they belong among Europe's elite again

Mohamed Salah decided to stay at Liverpool despite receiving an offer to earn at least £500 milli...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/17673" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/17673">Mohamed Salah</a> decided to stay at Liverpool despite receiving an offer to earn at least £500 million in the Saudi Pro League, sources told <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c20xngdprpyo">BBC Sport's Sami Mokbel</a>.The 32-year-old attacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3264089" href="https://thescore.com/news/3264089">signed</a> a two-year deal on Merseyside on Friday, ending months of persistent speculation about his future. Salah reportedly didn't need to take a pay cut to ensure he remained at Liverpool and will earn close to £400,000 a week on his latest terms.Still, that salary pales in comparison to the reported contract offer from an unnamed Saudi Arabian club. Salah's weekly wage of £400,000 amounts to around £20.8 million per year, meaning he would need to stay at Liverpool for at least 24 more years on that salary to match the riches he could've enjoyed in the Saudi Pro League.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Jeddah-based Al-Ittihad <a href="https://www.thescore.com/epl/news/2708557">reportedly</a> made a verbal approach for Salah in the summer of 2023.Salah inked fresh terms to stay at Liverpool because he wants to chase more silverware in Europe, try to win a Ballon d'Or, and ensure he continues to test himself against the best so he can perform well for Egypt, according to Mokbel. The Pharaohs are set to compete at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (which kicks off in December and concludes in January 2026) and are on the cusp of securing their place at the 2026 World Cup in North America.Salah is likely to have the option to move to Saudi Arabia in the future, Mokbel reports. People close to the forward believe he has at least another three years playing at the elite level - a year beyond when his new Liverpool contract expires - and there's an unwavering desire from the high-spending Saudi Pro League to bring the Arabic icon to play in the country.Saudi Arabia has attracted many big names in recent years, including Al-Nassr's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleaguefnl/players/1310" href="https://thescore.com/natleaguefnl/players/1310">Cristiano Ronaldo</a>. Salah's former Liverpool teammates <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/49565" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/49565">Fabinho</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/13233" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/13233">Roberto Firmino</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///intfr/players/20486" href="https://thescore.com/intfr/players/20486">Sadio Mane</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///intfr/players/10448" href="https://thescore.com/intfr/players/10448">Georginio Wijnaldum</a> also play in the oil-rich country.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - APRIL 11: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Mohamed Salah of Liverpool signs a new contract extension at Anfield on April 11, 2025 in Liverpool, England.

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Lionel Messi's talks over a new Inter Miami contract are at an advanced stage and the iconic atta...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1126" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1126">Lionel Messi</a>'s talks over a new Inter Miami contract are at an advanced stage and the iconic attacker is expected to sign fresh terms through 2026 soon, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6269451/2025/04/11/lionel-messi-inter-miami-contract-update/">The Athletic's David Ornstein</a>.The artful Argentine's current deal was due to expire at the end of the 2025 Major League Soccer campaign.Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi joined Inter Miami in July 2023. He's scored 42 goals and provided 21 primary assists in 48 appearances across all competitions for the club.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The South Florida franchise, which won the 2023 Leagues Cup and 2024 MLS Supporters' Shield with Messi, is set to move into a new venue named Miami Freedom Park next year."The stars are aligning for something great, for a beautiful future for the club and for Lionel. It's solely his decision," Miami managing owner Jorge Mas told <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIPjA0fyZGA/?igsh=eWV3aDgxMnhvcWdk">FDP Radio Miami</a> earlier this week, with translation from The Athletic."I expect that within 60-90 days we'll have to determine all of this. My hope has always been - and everything we're doing - is to see Messi play at our new stadium in 2026. Hopefully, that happens."The influence of Messi, who turns 38 in June, doesn't appear to be waning at Inter Miami.He's raced to three goals and two primary assists in four appearances in the 2025 MLS campaign despite head coach Javier Mascherano's careful efforts to manage Messi's minutes. The former Barcelona forward scored twice Wednesday to help his side turn a two-goal aggregate deficit in its CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinal against Los Angeles FC into a 3-2 victory. He played the penultimate pass for Inter Miami's other goal.Inter Miami take on the Vancouver Whitecaps in the Champions Cup semifinals later in April.Messi also continues to be a key figure for Argentina after winning the 2022 World Cup and two Copa Americas (2021 and 2024) with his country. He was absent from Argentina's World Cup qualifying wins over Uruguay and Brazil in March due to a groin injury but weighed in six goals and five assists over 11 appearances in 2024. He holds the men's team's records for caps (191) and goals (112).He's set to be a star attraction at the Club World Cup this summer. Before the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3247413" href="https://thescore.com/news/3247413">recent removal</a> of Liga MX's Club Leon due to an ownership issue, Inter Miami were the last outfit invited thanks to their Supporters' Shield success. They are in a group with Portugal's FC Porto, Brazil's Palmeiras, and Egypt's Al Ahly.Miami will now be joined at the tournament by Club Leon's replacement, which could the winner of a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3254929" href="https://thescore.com/news/3254929">mooted playoff game</a> between Mexican giants Club America and MLS side LAFC.

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL - APRIL 09: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF celebrates a goal during the CONCACAF Champions Cup Quarter-final football match between Los Angeles FC and Inter Miami CF on Thursday April 9, 2025 at Chase Stadium, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

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Report: Messi set to sign Inter Miami contract through 2026

Arsenal rocked Real Madrid with a sublime three-punch combo Tuesday to take a commanding 3-0 lead...

Arsenal rocked Real Madrid with a sublime three-punch combo Tuesday to take a commanding 3-0 lead into next week's Champions League quarterfinal second leg.<a href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/90903">Declan Rice</a> scored two magnificent free-kicks - incredibly, the first direct free-kicks he's scored in his professional career - and makeshift forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/58163" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/58163">Mikel Merino</a> netted an impressive one-touch shot from the edge of the area for a memorable night in north London.And despite Arsenal's remarkable three-goal outburst in the second half, <a href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/9963">Thibaut Courtois</a> may have been Real Madrid's best player. He made five excellent saves over the opening leg and was only breached by finishes of the highest quality. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/4054" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/4054">David Alaba</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/161381" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/161381">Jude Bellingham</a> also prevented two Arsenal goals with goal-line clearances.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Rice bent his first free-kick around Real Madrid's wall in superb style, powering in a curling effort from over 25 yards in the 58th minute.Then, incredibly, Rice did it again - and it was arguably better than his first. The angle seemed more appealing for left-footed playmaker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/34831" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/34831">Martin Odegaard</a>, who was also stood over the free-kick, but Rice strode toward the ball again and unleashed a perfect, swerving drive into the top corner.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779557/cropped_GettyImages-2209241260.jpg?ts=1744146786" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779557/w220xh124_GettyImages-2209241260.jpg?ts=1744146786 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779557/w320xh180_GettyImages-2209241260.jpg?ts=1744146786 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779557/w640xh360_GettyImages-2209241260.jpg?ts=1744146786 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779557/w768xh432_GettyImages-2209241260.jpg?ts=1744146786 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779557/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2209241260.jpg?ts=1744146786 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Richard Pelham - UEFA / UEFA / Getty</figcaption></figure>"Declan's been very determined because we have said in the last few months that we have not scored a direct free-kick in three-and-half years," Mikel Arteta said after the match, according to <a href="https://www.barrons.com/news/it-s-beautiful-arteta-hails-rice-free-kick-magic-as-arsenal-stun-real-01db6823">Agence France-Presse</a>."If there's a player who can do it, how clean he strikes it, it's Declan. But you have to execute it at the highest level. And against one of the best keepers in the world as well. It's amazing."Rice is now the first player to score two direct free-kicks in a Champions League knockout stage match.Arsenal's remarkable evening became scarcely believable just five minutes later. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/192369" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/192369">Myles Lewis-Skelly</a> slid a pass across the edge of Real Madrid's 18-yard box and Merino, the backup midfielder moonlighting as a center-forward amid a rash of Arsenal injuries, confidently stabbed a first-time shot into the bottom corner."We were talking in the dressing room about keeping the pace and tempo, obviously with the help of the crowd on our side. The second half was amazing, we played with full gas from the side," Merino told Amazon Prime, according to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3261969" href="https://thescore.com/news/3261969">Agence France-Presse</a>."When this side plays like that, the crowd go with us."Real Madrid, the winners of a record 15 Champions League crowns, had little response to Arsenal's onslaught. Rather than come roaring back in true Real Madrid style, they left with a whimper as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/140079" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/140079">Eduardo Camavinga</a> was shown a second yellow card in the closing stages for kicking the ball away."We were not good," Real Madrid's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/49943" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/49943">Lucas Vazquez</a> admitted to Movistar post-match, according to Agence France-Presse. "I think Arsenal had a great game, they made chances, they knew how to press us and we couldn't play our game."With such a one-sided win over Champions League royalty, some Arsenal fans will now believe their team can win Europe's top prize for the first time in its history.

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 08: Mikel Merino of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team's third goal with teammate Declan Rice during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Quarter Final First Leg match between Arsenal FC and Real Madrid C.F. at Emirates Stadium on April 08, 2025 in London, England.

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Leicester City became the first club since the 1888 formation of England's Football League to los...

Leicester City became the first club since the 1888 formation of England's Football League to lose eight consecutive home matches without scoring Monday, setting the new record with a 3-0 defeat to Newcastle United.Ruud van Nistelrooy's Foxes are on the brink of relegation as they're 15 points adrift of safety with seven Premier League matches remaining. Somewhat surprisingly, Leicester are only the second-worst team in England's top flight because they have seven more points than Southampton, who suffered the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3259823" href="https://thescore.com/news/3259823">earliest relegation in Premier League history</a> Sunday.Leicester, Southampton, and Ipswich Town were promoted from the Championship last season. Ipswich are also close to an immediate return to the second tier due to the 12-point gap between them and 17th-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Trouble in the Foxes' den<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Opposition</th>
<th>Result</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 22</td>
<td>Wolves</td>
<td>0-3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 29</td>
<td>Manchester City</td>
<td>0-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jan. 15</td>
<td>Crystal Palace</td>
<td>0-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jan. 18</td>
<td>Fulham</td>
<td>0-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Feb. 15</td>
<td>Arsenal</td>
<td>0-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Feb. 21</td>
<td>Brentford</td>
<td>0-4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>March 16</td>
<td>Manchester United</td>
<td>0-3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>April 7</td>
<td>Newcastle</td>
<td>0-3</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>The aggregate score of Leicester's last eight league matches at home is 0-21.Leicester's 2-1 win at Tottenham Hotspur in January marks the only time they scored over their last 11 Premier League home or away matches.In Leicester's latest setback, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/49695" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/49695">Jacob Murphy</a>'s brace and ex-Leicester player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/90749" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/90749">Harvey Barnes</a>' goal put the game out of the hosts' reach before halftime. The loudest cheer from the home support came when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/214418" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/214418">Jeremy Monga</a> was brought on as a substitute for his debut. At 15 years and 271 days old, he's the second-youngest player in Premier League history after Arsenal's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/190386" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/190386">Ethan Nwaneri</a> (15 years and 181 days).

LEICESTER, ENGLAND - APRIL 07: Ruud van Nistelrooy, Manager of Leicester City, looks dejected as he walks the edge of the technical area during the Premier League match between Leicester City FC and Newcastle United FC at The King Power Stadium on April 07, 2025 in Leicester, England.

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Pep Guardiola believes Matheus Nunes' future is at right-back for Manchester City after deciding ...

Pep Guardiola believes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/166328" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/166328">Matheus Nunes</a>' future is at right-back for Manchester City after deciding the 26-year-old lacks the intelligence and composure required to play midfield.Nunes' reputation blossomed while starring in Wolverhampton Wanderers' midfield during the 2022-23 campaign. Manchester City bought Nunes for around £53 million a few matches into the following season. However, the unconvincing displays from the Brazil-born Portuguese international and other players, a rash of injuries, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/4042" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/4042">Kyle Walker</a>'s January departure forced City manager Guardiola to rethink the player's role."(Nunes) can become a good right-back for his physicality," Guardiola said after Sunday's match at Manchester United, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/44571172/man-city-matheus-nunes-not-clever-enough-play-midfield-pep-guardiola">ESPN's Mark Ogden</a>. "I think he's not a player to play in midfield because he's not clever enough, in the composure, but he has incredible skills, and he's learning a lot."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Nunes has played at right-back for each of his 11 starts since mid-January, including the goalless Manchester derby at Old Trafford."The big mistake of full-backs is when you have the cross to the far post where you are, they are always sleeping," Guardiola said. "But he defended really well two or three crosses, like when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/23312" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/23312">Bruno (Fernandes)</a> put it to the far post for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/200230" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/200230">(Patrick) Dorgu</a>."He has the attention and the physicality to do it, so he can play in that position and help us a lot."Guardiola admitted he was surprised by Nunes' performance as a full-back, given there was little indication earlier in the campaign that would be his role."When you start the season, if you said, 'Matheus will play right-back,' you would ask what I'm talking about," Guardiola added. "But it is what it is."City's defense against Manchester United featured Nunes, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/162375" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/162375">Josko Gvardiol</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/68136" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/68136">Ruben Dias</a> as the center-backs and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/192475" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/192475">Nico O'Reilly</a> - a versatile yet predominantly attack-minded midfielder - acting as the other full-back. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/189326" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/189326">Rico Lewis</a>, who often operates as an inverted right-back, replaced O'Reilly at left-back in the 74th minute."The back-four was excellent. Ruben was incredible. So we build from that," Guardiola said.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - APRIL 06: Matheus Nunes of Manchester City takes a throw in during the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Manchester City FC at Old Trafford on April 06, 2025 in Manchester, England.

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Guardiola: Nunes 'not clever enough' to play midfield

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Daniel Rouse

Senior News Editor

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