Champions League
Liverpool Misfire in Istanbul: What We Spotted
Liverpool left RAMS Park frustrated after a 1–0 defeat to Galatasaray, and several key themes stood out from Arne Slot’s side.
1. Slot’s Big Salah Call Backfires
The decision to start Mohamed Salah on the bench was the headline pre-match, with the Egyptian introduced only in the second half. Slot’s gamble on fresh legs and a reshaped frontline failed to pay off, as Liverpool lacked cutting edge for long spells. By the time Salah entered, Galatasaray were deep and organised, making it difficult for him to influence the game.
2. Attack Without Spark
With Ekitike leading the line and Wirtz operating behind, Liverpool struggled to break down Galatasaray’s compact shape. Wide players failed to stretch the hosts, and Isak’s late introduction couldn’t change the tempo. It was a rare night where Liverpool looked blunt going forward.
3. Defensive Wobbles and Alisson’s Blow
Victor Osimhen’s early strike exposed a slow start at the back, and the injury to Alisson Becker compounded problems. Though Kelleher deputised well, the disruption unsettled Liverpool and the home fans sensed vulnerability.
4. Galatasaray’s Midfield Control
The partnership of Lucas Torreira and İlkay Gündoğan was crucial, pressing aggressively and denying Mac Allister and Szoboszlai time on the ball. That midfield battle set the tone for much of the evening.
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📉 Verdict:
Liverpool’s night in Istanbul will be remembered for a big selection gamble that didn’t pay off. With Salah and Isak starting on the bench and the attack misfiring, Slot’s side lacked their usual ruthlessness. The result leaves work to be done in the group stage — and questions over whether Slot underestimated the occasion by leaving his main weapon out from the start.
Champions League
Live pictures from yesterday’s Arsenal training session have sparked excitement among fans,
Live pictures from yesterday’s Arsenal training session have sparked excitement among fans, showcasing a motivated and focused squad ahead of their upcoming clash. The atmosphere at London Colney was filled with energy as Mikel Arteta oversaw intense drills aimed at improving sharpness, passing accuracy, and tactical awareness. Key players such as Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, and Gabriel Martinelli were all seen in high spirits, displaying impressive form during the session.
Viktor Gyökeres, who has been under the spotlight recently, looked determined as he participated in finishing exercises, while young talents like Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly continued to impress with their work rate and technical quality. Defensive duo William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães also looked solid, maintaining strong communication during positional play.
Arteta’s detailed approach was evident as he emphasized quick transitions, pressing intensity, and team unity. The team appears mentally ready and physically prepared for the challenges ahead. Fans will be pleased to see the players enjoying training, smiling, and showing great chemistry — a positive sign as Arsenal continue their push for success this season. The spirit and togetherness on display reflect the strong culture Arteta has built within the squad.
Champions League
Arsenal dream line-up vs Atletico Madrid as Lewis-Skelly and Martinelli decisions made
Arsenal are set to face Atletico Madrid in a highly anticipated European clash, and fans are eager to see how Mikel Arteta will line up his team. The Gunners are expected to name a strong starting XI, but key decisions surrounding Ethan Nwaneri, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Gabriel Martinelli could shape the final setup. Arteta has been impressed by the young duo’s performances in training, and there’s growing belief that Lewis-Skelly could earn a place on the bench, adding energy and creativity in midfield.
In attack, Martinelli is likely to start on the left, bringing pace and directness against Atletico’s compact defense. Bukayo Saka will operate from the right, while Viktor Gyökeres may lead the line as Arsenal’s main striker. In midfield, Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice are expected to control possession, supported by Thomas Partey or Jorginho. At the back, William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães will form a solid partnership, with Ben White and Oleksandr Zinchenko providing width from full-back.
Arteta’s selection reflects a balance of youth and experience, emphasizing control, intensity, and flexibility. With their attacking talent and tactical discipline, Arsenal will aim to dominate and make a statement against Diego Simeone’s resilient Atletico side.
Champions League
Revealed: NEW Champions League favourites confirmed by stats boffins – and which Premier League side just misses out on top eight spot
Opta’s latest supercomputer predictions have revealed the new Champions League favourites, with Liverpool emerging top at 20.4% to lift the trophy. Arsenal follow closely at 16%, reflecting their strong European form, while PSG sit third at 12.1%. Behind them, Barcelona and Manchester City are both rated around 8.4%, Chelsea at 7%, Real Madrid at 5.8% and Bayern Munich at 4.4%. The model highlights that the Premier League continues to dominate, but interestingly one English side just falls short of the top-eight bracket. That club is Manchester City, who despite their pedigree and Pep Guardiola’s legacy, are no longer seen as near-certain contenders for the latter stages. Instead, Liverpool and Arsenal now lead the English charge.
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