Former Premier League attacker Joe Cole questions Arsenal's title credentials after their surprise defeat to Newcastle. With a seven-point gap to leaders Liverpool, and a tough upcoming week including matches against Inter Milan and in-form Chelsea, it seems like the Gunners may have a long way to go in the title race. Cole also suggests that changes may be made by manager Mikel Arteta, potentially including dropping Leandro Trossard, who was "off it" in the match against Newcastle.
Arsenal's Title Hopes in Jeopardy After Newcastle Defeat, Cole Raises Concerns
Arsenal's impressive Premier League campaign hit a roadblock on Saturday as they succumbed to a surprising 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United at St. James' Park. The setback raises questions about the Gunners' title challenge, which has been built on a solid defensive record and impressive attacking displays.
Former Chelsea and England midfielder Joe Cole expressed doubts about Arsenal's title chances following their loss to Newcastle. With a seven-point gap to table-toppers Liverpool and a grueling week ahead, including clashes against Inter Milan and Chelsea, the Gunners face a challenging obstacle in their quest for silverware.
Managerial Concerns and Possible Changes
Cole suggested that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta might consider making changes to his lineup, particularly dropping Belgian winger Leandro Trossard. The former Brighton & Hove Albion player struggled to make an impact against Newcastle and was substituted in the second half.
Background of Arsenal's Title Challenge
Arsenal have been the surprise package of the Premier League this season, leading the table for much of the campaign. Their success has been attributed to a strong defensive unit, led by goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, and a potent attacking trio of Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka, and Martin Odegaard.
Five Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Despite their defeat to Newcastle, Arsenal remain in contention for the title, but the gap to Liverpool has grown to seven points.
Arsenal struggled to break down Newcastle's resilient defense and were punished for their mistakes in the second half.
Arteta may consider making changes, including dropping Trossard for the upcoming matches.
Arsenal face a tough week with matches against Inter Milan and Chelsea before hosting Manchester United on April 26.
Cole believes Arsenal have a long way to go in the title race, given the gap to Liverpool and the challenging fixtures ahead.
After a disappointing loss to Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool are reportedly eyeing Bayern Munich's Joshua Kimmich as a potential replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold, should the current Reds player depart for Real Madrid. With Kimmich having excelled as a defensive midfielder and even taking on the captain's armband, Liverpool are keeping a close eye on the situation and may make a move in the upcoming January transfer window.
In a recent interview, FC Barcelona star Lamine Yamal expressed his excitement for the Spanish Super Cup final after scoring a crucial goal in the semifinals against Athletic Club. The 17-year-old had just returned from an ankle injury and was instrumental in securing his team's spot in the final. He also shared his happiness in seeing teammates Dani Olmo and Pau Victor being cleared to play and hopes they will join him in the final against either Real Madrid or RCD Mallorca.
In a thrilling semifinal match against Athletic Club, Barcelona secures its place in the Spanish Super Cup finals. A long pass from Raphinha leads to a chance for Athletic to score, but a timely intervention from goalkeeper Simon denies them. Subscribers of Sportstar can catch the highlights of the intense match at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah.
Despite Barcelona missing key player Dani Olmo, whose playing license was revoked, young talents Gavi and Yamal stepped up to secure a 2-0 victory against Athletic Bilbao in the Spanish Super Cup semifinals. Olmo was temporarily cleared to play, but unfortunately not in time for the game. Barca's opponent in the final will be determined in the match between Real Madrid and Mallorca, with the outcome being held in Saudi Arabia. Barca coach Hansi Flick expressed his joy over the decision to allow Olmo and Pau Victor to play again, and the players were also thrilled to contribute to the win and reach the final.
Following reports of a possible move for Osimhen, it seems Liverpool is also keeping an eye on youth international Jamie Bynoe-Gittens and facing a potential setback in their pursuit of Alphonso Davies. Meanwhile, there are rumors of a possible takeover by Elon Musk. On the field, Liverpool lost their second match of the season to Tottenham Hotspur in a League Cup semi-final, with an injury to Rodrigo Bentancur overshadowing the game. In other transfer news, Loris Karius may finally sign for a new club after leaving Newcastle United, with Schalke reportedly interested in him as a replacement.
Dutch midfielder Frenkie de Jong has raised doubts about his future at Barcelona, revealing that he may not stay at the club for the entirety of his contract. This admission comes as a surprise, given the player's constant assurances of his commitment to the club in the past. However, de Jong's revelation could signal a potential move to another top European club, as speculation surrounding his future intensifies. As he faces fitness and form challenges this season, de Jong's performance against UD Barbastro will be closely watched as he vies for a more prominent role in the team.
Young superstars Gavi and Lamine Yamal put on a show in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia as they scored a goal each to secure a 2-0 victory for Barcelona against Athletic Club in the Spanish Super Cup semifinal. The team was unable to field Spanish playmaker Dani Olmo and Pau Victor due to delayed clearance, but it did not stop the young guns from shining on the field. This win takes Barcelona one step closer to lifting the trophy and adds to their impressive run of form under new manager Xavi Hernandez.
As the transfer window opens, Premier League clubs are already hard at work securing new signings and making major changes. Manchester United is looking to offload players and bring in fresh talent with Ruben Amorim leading the way. Meanwhile, Liverpool is fighting to keep key players as their contracts near expiration. Across the league, teams like Arsenal and Bayern Munich are also looking to bolster their squads for a strong second half of the season. Stay updated with all the latest news and rumors throughout the day.
In a rain-reduced match, New Zealand's strong bowling attack led by Will O'Rourke and Jacob Duffy proved too much for Sri Lanka as they collapsed to 142 all out, losing by 113 runs. Sri Lanka's top order once again failed to produce, with only Kaminu Mendis scoring above 30. Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka acknowledged their poor play in the power play as a major factor in their loss. With a 2-0 lead in the series, New Zealand looks poised for a clean sweep in the upcoming third match in Auckland.
The transfer window has been open for eight days, but Manchester City have yet to make any signings. However, according to reports, they are considering a move for Nottingham Forest full-back Ola Aina to bolster their defence. With plenty of time for clubs to make their moves, the January transfer window promises to be an interesting one to follow.