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The 2023/24 season has been a disappointing campaign for Manchester United. Erik ten Hag’s side currently sit seventh in the Premier League table, 13 points off a top-four spot and having lost 12 games so far.

They also crashed out of the Champions League in the group stages, and the 15 goals they conceded in the competition was the most by a Premier League team in a single campaign in the group stages, as per Opta Joe.

Of course, these numbers are nowhere near good enough for a club of United’s stature, and it has seen manager Ten Hag, who is into his second season at the club, face plenty of criticism. However the club have denied several times that they have been talking to other managers, and it remains unclear at this time as to whether or not they will part ways with Ten Hag this summer.

The finger of blame has been pointed in a few different directions by United fans this season. Aside from the criticism that Ten Hag has faced, United fans have also directed blame at certain players, including Casemiro, who has struggled for form this season, and has looked nothing like his usual self – dubbed a "Soccer Aid" player by pundit Jamie Redknapp.

Naturally, United’s way to fix the problem has been to look into the transfer market, although not just in midfield. They have looked at Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite as the man to sure up the defence, but with a £75m price tag, according to GiveMeSport, the Red Devils may have to find an alternative option, and they have identified one of the best defenders in Serie A as that player.

Manchester United's Branthwaite Alternative

The man in question here is Juventus centre-back Gleison Bremer, who has recently emerged as United’s ideal alternative target to 21-year-old Branthwaite. According to The Mirror, Bremer has a £43m release clause in his contract, which would save United £32m should they sign the Brazilian over Branthwaite.

27-year-old Brazil international Bremer, who played one minute at Wembley against England last month, has been a key man for the Turin side this season. He has started 32 games in Serie A, playing every minute of each.

According to journalist Rudy Galetti, interest in Bremer from the Old Trafford club “is becoming increasingly insistent”, with Juve targeting Mario Hermoso of Atletico Madrid as a potential replacement should Bremer move to United.

How Bremer compares to Branthwaite

Described by football analyst Ben Mattinson on X as a “monster” at the heart of Juve’s defence, Bremer is certainly one of the most highly-rated centre-backs in Europe. The 27-year-old has helped to keep 15 clean sheets for Juve this season, the joint-third most in Serie A, as per Sofascore. That is almost double the amount Manchester United have managed to keep this season, with eight, according to Sofascore.

The most notable difference between Branthwaite and Bremer is the fact that the Everton man is left-footed, and Juve’s number three is right-footed. However, this is not necessarily a cause for concern for United, who aren’t specifically targeting a left-sided centre-back, and Braithwaite is equally strong on each foot. Indeed, both are capable of playing central centre-back in a back three in possession, which is likely where they would both slot in at United if they joined the club next summer.

Bremer is a very aggressive centre-back, who likes to step up and get close to attackers; he is not afraid to contest duels on the ground or in the air. Branthwaite is a wonderful defender, quick along the ground despite his frame, and superb at defending wide spaces.

Aerially, Bremer ranks highly, according to Fbref. He averages 2.88 aerial duels won per 90 minutes, which ranks him in the top 15% of centre-backs in Serie A. In comparison, Branthwaite averages 2.69 aerial duels won per 90 minutes in the Premier League this season, which ranks him in the top 21% of defenders in the competition, as per Fbref.

However, with this in mind, it is worth considering that Brantwahite is quite a bit taller than Bremer, with the former standing at 6 foot 5, and the latter smaller at 6 foot 2.

Another place where Bremer’s numbers stack up favourably against Branthwaite’s is on the ball. Whilst still not elite, the Juve defender averages 3.32 progressive passes per 90 minutes, whereas Branthwaite averages just 2.06 progressive passes per 90.

Take this with a pinch of salt, however, because Branthwaite is playing in an Everton side with far less possession and a different way of playing than Juve. In actual fact, Branthwaite is superb on the ball, despite what the numbers suggest.

Both defenders read the game excellently, and this is reflected in their interception numbers. Branthwaite excels here, with his 1.61 interceptions per 90 minutes ranking him in the top 9% in the Premier League. On the other hand, Bremer makes just 1.22 per 90 minutes, placing him as low as the 65th percentile.

No doubt, signing Bremer could help fix the struggles that Casemiro has faced this season. The Brazilian midfielder has looked like a shadow of his former self – being dribbled past 2.2 times per game in the league – although having Bremer behind him to cover for him if he loses a challenge could well be vital for the 32-year-old veteran.

It is certainly sad to see such a decline, yet bringing in a player like Bremer, who can help in duels and by sweeping up loose balls, might well prove to be helpful to the former Real Madrid man – who has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford, as per the Daily Mail.

Should Manchester United deem Branthwaite unattainable this season, Bremer offers a wonderful alternative. He is aggressive and good in the air, although does leave a lot to be desired in possession.

For just £43m, he could be a great choice should the Red Devils wish to strengthen at the back, and provide more support to his compatriot Casemiro ahead of him.

Man Utd could unleash the real Bruno by signing “unreal” ace for £0

The Man United target has been described as a “concrete option.”

ByTom Lever Apr 20, 2024

Even if Manchester United had beaten Burnley 1-0 in Premier League action, the pressure still wouldn't have been off Erik ten Hag's shoulders.

The Clarets drawing 1-1 in the end at Old Trafford courtesy of a last-gasp penalty kick just adds more fuel to the fire for those who want the Dutchman to be relieved from his duties at the end of the campaign, with a whole host of names being lined up to now replace the ex-Ajax manager.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the powers that be at the Theatre of Dreams could move in a different direction to lead Man United into a potentially more successful new era.

Man United manager news

Even with Ten Hag still clinging onto his job post for the time being, that hasn't stopped the rumour mill at Old Trafford from going into overdrive speculating who could eventually be the unpopular 54-year-old's successor.

Current Borussia Dortmund head coach Edin Terzic was rumoured to be in the running to oust the Dutchman according to a report from TEAMtalk, whilst further rumours suggested Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi was also being talked up to come in after the season is over and done with.

Yet, the new 'favourite' – according to the Guardian – is surprisingly England manager Gareth Southgate.

Who could benefit from Southgate's appointment?

This is a move that would surely be welcomed by ex-Chelsea man Mason Mount who has starred under the former Middlesbrough boss' watchful eye on the international stage in the past.

Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw also wouldn't object to the 53-year-old walking through the door either, as Southgate potentially leaves England behind to return back to the firing line of club football.

Mount was given his senior England debut by Southgate back in 2019, the-then 20-year-old attacking midfielder with the world at his feet after exploding into life at Chelsea.

Now 25, he has since gone on to gain 36 caps for his country, picking up five goals and five assists along the way before being turned away from the England picture in the midst of his Blues career falling by the wayside and a turbulent move to Man United transpiring.

Mount will want to recapture his Chelsea best at Old Trafford, having only made 13 Premier League appearances this season to date under Ten Hag with recurring injury issues stopping him in his tracks.

Southgate could well be the manager Mount desires to put an arm around him to get more out of the forgotten number seven, who has shone brightly in patches this season when fit.

Mount's strike against Brentford back in March found the back of the net despite the ex-Blues midfielder only being on the pitch for ten minutes, breaking his Red Devils duck in the process.

Deployed down the left wing during this impactful cameo from the bench, Mount would benefit from an extended run in the United XI in a more central spot and Southgate could gift him that based on his preference for where he slots the 25-year-old into his past England sides.

The current Three Lions boss – who was praised as being "amazing" by Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham recently – has only ever played Mount down the flanks twice during his 36 caps, with all of his goal contributions coming from a more central position.

Club

Games managed

Wins

Draws

Losses

England

93

59

18

16

England U21s

33

27

3

3

Middlesbrough

151

47

41

63

Sourced by Transfermarkt

It would be an almighty risk appointing Southgate based on his previous managerial record at Middlesbrough (seen in the table above) but the appointment could work wonders for the English personnel already at the Theatre of Dreams who will want to run through brick walls for the 53-year-old at club level if he is seen as the correct fit after ten Hag.

Man Utd eyeing Ten Hag upgrade who could be "like Ange Postecoglou"

The Man United target has lost 12 games fewer than Erik ten Hag this season.

ByTom Lever Apr 26, 2024

It's been a real season of two halves for Tottenham Hotspur this year.

Ange Postecoglou watched his team go ten games unbeaten at the start of the Premier League campaign, then slump to fifth and lose their last four on the bounce.

Champions League qualification might be just out of reach for the Australian's side this season, but with a real chance of making it into the Europa League in their first campaign without Harry Kane in the side, it's hard to be too down on the Lilywhites in 23/24.

However, if Daniel Levy and Co want to give Postecoglou the best chance of lifting European silverware next year, they should consider signing an upgrade for the inconsistent Richarlison this summer, and based on recent reports, that might just be happening.

Tottenham Hotspur transfer news

According to a recent report from Football Transfers, Tottenham have maintained their interest in Brentford's star striker, Ivan Toney, and, ahead of the summer window, are leading the race for his signature alongside West Ham United.

The report has revealed that the two London clubs are prepared to battle it out for the forward once the window opens, with Manchester United stepping away from the fight following concerns from INEOS over the Englishman's character.

While the Hammers indeed represent a challenge for the Lilywhites, particularly following the reports that former Real Madrid and Spain manager Julen Lopetegui is set to take the reins, Levy and Co must be confident in their ability to offer the striker a more appealing package, especially if they clinch Europa League qualification.

The lack of competition isn't the only good news either, as the report has also revealed that the Bees would now be willing to accept offers around the £50m mark for a striker priced at closer to £100m just last year. So, with a lack of quality centre-forward options, this feels like a deal Spurs can't ignore.

How Toney compares to Richarlison

Now, there is one major thing to take into account when comparing Richarlison's output to Toney's, which is the fact that the latter only came back to football in the new year after serving an eight-month betting-related ban, so while we could compare their output from this season alone, it wouldn't be entirely accurate.

So, with that in mind, how did the pair stack up to one another last year when they both had an entire season to prove themselves?

Appearances

35

35

Goals

21

3

Assists

5

4

Goal Involvements per Match

0.74

0.20

Unfortunately for the Lilywhites' Brazilian marksman, he didn't do all that well. He scored just three goals and provided four assists in 35 games, meaning he averaged a goal involvement every five games, while the Bees' ace scored 21 goals and provided five assists in 35 games, meaning he averaged a goal involvement every 1.3 games.

It's such a landslide victory for the "world-class" 28-year-old, as described by manager Thomas Frank, that even when including the pair's hauls from this season, the Northampton-born star comes out ahead with a goal involvement every 1.6 games to the former Everton man's 2.8.

Appearances

50

66

Goals

25

15

Assists

6

8

Goal Involvements per Match

0.62

0.34

Ultimately, while Richarlison has looked better this season and Toney has been a bit rusty, their respective bodies of work over the last couple of seasons very clearly demonstrate that the "unplayable" Englishman, as Alan Shearer described him, is the superior striker.

So, if Spurs want to genuinely challenge for trophies next season, they should stump up the cash and add a genuinely clinical number nine to Postecoglou's free-flowing attack.

Spurs must finally axe Pochettino signing who earns more than Son

The transfer might be the worst in the club’s history.

ByJack Salveson Holmes May 7, 2024

Manchester United are prepared to make an offer for Real Madrid's latest hero this summer, according to an intriguing transfer update.

Man Utd transfer news

The Red Devils are getting ready for the daunting challenge of facing rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final this weekend, with the two sides locking horns at Wembley on Saturday afternoon. This season has not only been a disappointing one at Old Trafford, but has also highlighted the need for signings, in order to close the gap on their local adversaries.

Benfica midfielder Joao Neves is seen as one of Europe's most exciting young talents, and he has continually been linked with a summer move to United, being viewed as an upgrade on Casemiro, who is past his best and needs to move on. The Portuguese has even been likened to a legendary figure in Paul Scholes, which could excite the fans.

The Red Devils are also reportedly plotting a move for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, who is a similarly prodigious striker to Rasmus Hojlund, and he could come in and ease the workload on the current United star. A £55m move has been mooted.

It would be a huge surprise if Sir Jim Ratcliffe didn't see centre-back as a crucial to add depth to, and two Premier League aces in Marc Guehi and Jarrad Branthwaite have both been backed to head to Manchester before the beginning of next season.

Man Utd want "perfect" Real Madrid ace

According to a new claim from Defensa Central, Manchester United are keen on signing Real Madrid striker Joselu and Ratcliffe is preparing an offer to him this summer. They are willing to give him a two-year deal that earns him £4.2m per year net in wages, with their interest in him reportedly growing over the past few months.

In many ways, Joselu would be a surprise signing by United in the summer window, considering he is now 34 years of age and has played for the likes of Stoke City in the past. He certainly wouldn't represent a long-term option, but there could be an element of sense to it. The £40,000-a-week Spaniard would come in as a more experienced alternative to Hojlund, accepting that he may have to play second fiddle to him but filling in when needed, putting his experience to good use.

It shouldn't be forgotten that the attacker only recently proved to be the hero in Madrid's dramatic Champions League win over Bayern Munich, scoring twice late on in the semi-final second leg to take them to the final. His manager, Carlo Ancelotti, has lauded him, saying: "He's the perfect reflection of what this squad is: players who contribute a lot without losing confidence [if they're not playing] and the idea that they can offer the team something."

Ratcliffe must sell Man Utd star who's worth 3x less than McTominay

The Man United ace was once signed for £50m.

ByTom Lever May 24, 2024

Given his age, it would still be better for United to focus on a different attacker this summer, especially given the money they are offering him. The club need to learn from previous mistakes of signing players who are past their best, from Casemiro to Cristiano Ronaldo second time around.

Everton travel to face Arsenal at the Emirates this afternoon, looking to end the season on a high whilst potentially having a huge impact on the Premier League’s title race.

Sean Dyche and co are looking to make it five wins from their last six against Mikel Arteta’s side who are still in with a slim chance of claiming their first league title since 2003/04.

The Toffees will also hoping to make it two wins in a row, following on from last weekend’s 1-0 win against already relegated Sheffield United, with Abdoulaye Doucoure’s first goal in 2024 securing the win for the hosts.

If Everton are to pull off a shock and claim another three points in north London, Dyche will have to brutally drop one player from the starting eleven – with tomorrow potentially his last game for the club.

Why Seamus Coleman should be dropped against Arsenal

Experienced right-back Seamus Coleman has been an excellent servant during his time at Goodison Park, making 421 appearances since 2009, but unfortunately, injuries have caught up with the Irishman in recent years.

He’s only featured 11 times in the league this campaign, with his latest display coming against Chris Wilder’s side last Saturday.

His outing against the Blades was just his sixth Premier League start of the 23/24 season, but he failed to take advantage of the rare opportunity.

The 35-year-old featured for the whole 90 minutes, losing possession 19 times and winning just 37% of the duels that he contested during the victory.

Minutes played

90

Possession lost

19x

Duels won

3/8 (37%)

Fouls committed

2

Successful dribbles

0/3 (0%)

Crosses completed

1/2 (50%)

Coleman also committed two fouls and completed zero of his three attempted dribbles down Everton’s right-hand side, with the ageing full-back – who recently signed a new contract – looking past his best.

With his poor display, coupled with the much-improved quality of the opposition, Dyche must brutally drop the Irishman and replace him with one Toffees player who has excelled out of position so far this season.

The man to replace Coleman against Everton

Ben Godfrey has enjoyed a return to the side in recent months, after only making one appearance up until the middle of December.

However, all but two of his 15 Premier League appearances this season have come in an unnatural right-back position, with the 26-year-old unable to dislodge either James Tarkowski or Jarrad Branthwaite from the heart of Everton’s defence.

He’s taken to his new role exceptionally well, with his best display undeniably coming against Liverpool during the 2-0 win in the Merseyside derby.

Godfrey, who’s been dubbed as “immense” by boxer and Everton fan Tony Bellew, made six clearances and five interceptions, whilst winning two tackles – preserving the Toffees’ clean sheet in a pivotal match for the club.

His pace is key when coming up against quick wingers and with Arsenal possessing rapid players such as Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard, the 26-year-old’s acceleration and tackling ability are potentially able to nullify the Gunners’ attacking threat down the left-hand side.

It may seem a brutal call to bench Coleman, but Dyche must hand the Englishman another opportunity to prove himself ahead of next season.

Dyche could send Coleman packing by unleashing Everton's teen sensation

The 35-year-old is out of contract at the end of the campaign.

ByEthan Lamb May 17, 2024

Bayern Munich and by extension Vincent Kompany are eyeing a "very strong" Chelsea player as the Belgian's first potential signing this summer.

Maresca's plans at Chelsea taking shape

Enzo Maresca's arrival as new head coach to replace Mauricio Pochettino was confirmed on Monday, as the west Londoners usher in a new era.

£115 million attacking duo want to join Chelsea as their agents open talks

They’re both equally as keen.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 5, 2024

The Italian, after guiding Leicester City to the Championship title and automatic promotion last season, has put pen to paper on a five-year contract at Chelsea with the option of staying for a further year.

Maresca already has transfer targets in mind at Chelsea, and it is believed he is set to give certain players a chance to impress at Stamford Bridge. Maresca is a big admirer of goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, for instance, with Fabrizio Romano claiming this week that the 44-year-old cannot wait to work with him.

Maresca also wants to hand Chelsea youngster Omari Hutchinson an opportunity in pre-season, but the same cannot be said of a few others. Various reports have indicated that the likes of Armando Broja, Romelu Lukaku, Conor Gallagher, Trevoh Chalobah, Malang Sarr and Kepa Arrizabalaga could follow Thiago Silva out the door, with left-back Ian Maatsen also earning admirers after a brilliant campaign on loan at Borussia Dortmund.

Dortmund have been locked in talks to sign Maatsen permanently, as per Sky journalist Dharmesh Sheth, with it looking likely that there won't be a place for the Dutchman in Maresca's Chelsea squad next season.

However, according to GiveMeSport, they face competition for the left-back from a fierce Bundesliga rival.

Kompany eyeing Chelsea ace Maatsen as first Bayern Munich signing

Bayern Munich, who recently announced Kompany as their new manager, knows Maatsen well from their time together at Burnley.

Dortmund 3-0 Freiburg

8.61

Dortmund 4-0 Darmstadt

8.49

Union Berlin 0-2 Dortmund

8.43

FC Koln 0-4 Dortmund

7.72

Dortmund 3-1 Bochum

7.47

Now, it is believed Bayern have entered the race to sign Maatsen from Chelsea this summer, and could go toe-to-toe with Dortmund over his signature. The 22-year-old's deal includes a £35 million release clause, but it is unclear whether either side are willing to pay it.

"He's part of such a very strong list of players who have done really well for us this season," said ex-Burnley boss Kompany on Maatsen.

“The ingredients are always the same. He's got to be coachable in a sense that when he's not doing well we've got to be able to tell him and eventually learn from his mistakes. He's got to be willing to work hard, he does that terrifically, and get better.

"He's just turning into something that we expected him to be able to become. He's a very, very versatile full-back with lots of energy and great potential."

Manchester United could make an audacious swoop to fill the Casemiro sized hole in their ranks this summer, it has been claimed, by signing a man likened to Arsenal star Declan Rice.

Mainoo the main man

There is no doubt that going forwards, Kobbie Mainoo will be the main man in Erik ten Hag's midfield. The talented teen is already a full England international and looks set for stardom, while he is one of just three Manchester United players not up for transfer ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

Fabrizio Romano: INEOS close to new deal for "really important" Man Utd man

It could be their most important move of the summer.

ByBen Browning Jun 13, 2024

But beyond him, there are question marks. Sofyan Amrabat's loan spell has come to an end, and he will return to Fiorentina as things stand, while Casemiro has been strongly linked with a move to Saudi Arabia.

There are few other alternatives for Ten Hag, with only Christian Eriksen and Scott McTominay the options in the middle of the park.for the Dutchman to call upon. As a result, the club have turned to the transfer market, and are reportedly ready to make their move.

New midfielder in United's sights

Now, a fresh report has linked Manchester United with a move for Bayern Munich stalwart Leon Goretzka as they look to reinvent their midfield options. The German has been a mainstay in the Bayern side in recent seasons, but the emergence of Alexander Pavlovic has seen his importance diminish somewhat.

Goretzka drew plenty of praise from Bayern chief Christoph Freund, who labelled him a "top player" and "leader" less than 12 months ago.

"Leon is an absolute top player, which he has consistently proven at the highest level over many years. In the past few weeks, he has shown strong performances in various positions, playing with a broken hand – that shows his great mentality. Leon is a leader who always leads the way on the pitch and takes responsibility even in difficult situations.”

A no-nonsense midfielder, Goretzka grabbed six goals and seven assists in 30 Bundesliga outings last season, and statistically speaking is similar to Arsenal's Declan Rice (according to stat site fbref), who Manchester United were keen to sign before he made the move to north London.

Declan Rice vs Leon Goretzka (23/24 domestic season)

Declan Rice

Leon Goretzka

Appearances

38

30

Goals + assists

15

13

Pass accuracy

88.9%

88.9%

Tackles and interceptions per 90

3.55

2.89

Progressive passes per 90

7.77

7.07

Aerial duels won %

47.6%

55.4%

The 29-year-old still has two years left to run on his £300,000 a week deal in Bavaria, but Football Transfers report that he has "been made available for a move this window" as Bayern look to freshen up their side under Vincent Kompany.

Goretzka himself may also be keen on a departure, having missed out on Germany's EURO 2024 squad and seemingly out of favour with the national side.

The report continues that Manchester United would be willing to offer around 40m euros (£34m) for his services this summer, which could prove a tempting offer for Kompany and co. if they are really keen to get rid of the German ahead of the new season.

United, meanwhile, would be getting an excellent addition to their midfield engine room who would certainly prove more mobile and physical than Casemiro, and may allow Mainoo to flourish further at Old Trafford.

One Chelsea player faces "new doubt" over his future and could push to leave Stamford Bridge on one condition, with new head coach Enzo Maresca set to have a real influence.

Players who could be sold by Chelsea this summer

Ian Maatsen has joined Thiago Silva out of the Chelsea exit door, with the highly-rated Dutch full-back completing his Aston Villa medical on Monday and Omari Kelleyman going the other way in a separate £19 million deal (Nizaar Kinsella).

Chelsea prepared to bid for new priority target in £50 million forward

The west Londoners are keen on bringing in a new attacker or two.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 25, 2024

Chelsea and Villa agreed on a £35 million-plus fee for Maatsen, shaking hands on a club-to-club deal last week, with the Villans then sorting out personal terms. The fee received for him will come as a significant boost for co-Chelsea sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley, who are tasked with bolstering Maresca's squad ahead of next season.

The 22-year-old performed exceptionally on loan at Borussia Dortmund last season, helping them reach the Champions League final, but there was little room in Chelsea's already-bloated squad for Maatsen. Attention now turns to who could follow the defender out, and there are many names up for the chopping block.

Cole Palmer

7.48

Conor Gallagher

7.13

Nicolas Jackson

7.07

Moises Caicedo

6.85

Noni Madueke

6.84

Romelu Lukaku, Armando Broja, Conor Gallagher, Malang Sarr, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Trevoh Chalobah, Omari Hutchinson, Lesley Ugochukwu, Marc Cucurella and Conor Gallagher are all players who could be sold by Chelsea this summer, according to various reports from the last few months.

Despite some reports, Chelsea are under no pressure to sell by June 30 to comply with PSR, according to Sky Sports. However, they will have to sell before next year's deadline of June 30, or risk facing stiff sanctions from the Premier League.

Time is on their side in this regard, but it will nevertheless be difficult to find potential buyers for every single one of the aforementioned players. Another squad member who faces uncertainty, according to Football Insider journalist Pete O'Rourke, is winger Mykhailo Mudryk.

Mykhailo Mudryk could push to leave Chelsea

As per his information, Mudryk could push to leave Chelsea if Maresca doesn't give him the necessary game time, and he's facing a crucial pre-season as a result.

His future is under "new doubt", and may well be an exit nominee despite only joining in January of last year for a mammoth £89 million fee. The Ukraine star has gone on to make 58 appearances in all competitions for the Blues since putting pen to paper on a transfer from Shakhtar Donetsk.

He's scored just seven goals and racked up four assists in that time, though Mudryk has been praised in flashes and even compared to Arjen Robben by Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard.

“Mykhaylo Mudryk looks the real deal, some of his clips today were outstanding," said Gerrard on TNT Sports.

"He reminded me a little bit of Arjen Robben, his footwork, how quick he is, how he manipulates the ball, I would be very excited if I was Chelsea.”

Avoiding defeat in football is one of the many fundamentals of the game, but doing it over a long period of time requires a large amount of luck, consistency, grit and determination. Five of the longest unbeaten runs in English top-flight football have come in the Premier League era, but what teams feature on the all-time list?

There have been ten occasions where teams have hit the 30-game milestone for matches unbeaten, which has been something of a stumbling block over the years. For this list, we've ranked the longest unbeaten runs since records began. Only league games count, and given there has only ever been one modern-day unbeaten season, it is perhaps no surprise that few have managed to even come close.

Rank

Team

Matches unbeaten

Years

Arsenal

49

2003-2004

Liverpool

44

2019-2020

Nottingham Forest

42

1977-1978

Chelsea

40

2004-2005

Leeds

34

1968-1969

Liverpool

31

1987-1988

Manchester City

30

2017-2018

Arsenal

30

2001-2002

Leeds

30

1973-1974

Burnley

30

1920-1921

10 Burnley 1920-1921 30 games

The Clarets cemented themselves in the history books of English football when they were crowned champions of England for the first time in March 1921, following a 30-game unbeaten run.

Under boss John Haworth, who spent 14 years in charge of the club, Burnley lost their first three games of the 1920/21 season, before going 30 games without losing and establishing a record that lasted 83 years – it was the first time a top-flight English football club had gone that many games unbeaten.

A special plaque commemorating the iconic Clarets record was restored in 2021 and displayed in a new lounge at Turf Moor, Burnley’s stadium.

30

3-0 v Huddersfield (6th September 1920)

1-0 v Man Utd (25th March 1921)

Manchester City (L 0-1, 26th March 1921)

9 Leeds 1973-1974 30 games

Following a third-place finish the previous season – which culminated with a 6-1 win over Arsenal at Elland Road – Leeds United stormed into the 1973/74 campaign thirsty for success.

Don Revie’s side were reeling from bitter cup final defeats. The first: a shocking FA Cup final defeat to Second Division Sunderland. The second: another 1-0 defeat to Milan in the European Cup Winners’ Cup, refereed by Christos Michas, who was later banned for match-fixing.

However, both defeats failed to rattle Revie’s men, as they started the next campaign by going 29 games unbeaten, winning 19 and drawing 10, in addition to their late-season win over Arsenal the previous term.

Their 30-game unbeaten run came to an end after a 3-2 defeat to Stoke City, but Leeds would go on to lift their second English League title finishing on 62 points.

It was Revie’s last season in charge of Leeds, as he accepted the England job where he remained largely unsuccessful for three years, before managing the United Arab Emirates.

30

6-1 v Arsenal (9th May 1973)

2-0 v Man Utd (9th February 1974)

Stoke City (L 2-3, 23rd February 1974)

8 Arsenal 2001-2002 30 games

Arsenal were a force to be reckoned with in the early 2000s, with star names like Thierry Henry, Sol Campbell, Patrick Vieira and Dennis Bergkamp all at the top of their game.

Ending as runners-up to Manchester United the previous season and losing out to Liverpool in the 2001 FA Cup final spurred Arsene Wenger’s men on to have a glorious next few years. This period began with their 30-game unbeaten streak during the 2001 and 2002 seasons.

It was a hugely competitive league at the time, with Leeds, Liverpool and Manchester United all on the hunt for Premier League success, but Arsenal experienced just three defeats during the campaign.

In their last 21 fixtures, the Gunners went unbeaten – winning each of their last 13 – and Sylvain Wiltord’s goal at Old Trafford added the League title to their trophy cabinet, following their FA Cup success at Wembley over Chelsea four days prior.

30

2-1 v Liverpool (23rd December 2001)

3-1 v Sunderland (6th October 2002)

Everton (L 1-2, 19th October 2002)

7 Man City 2017-2018 30 games

Surprisingly, Pep Guardiola’s side feature just once on the list of the longest unbeaten runs in top-flight English football, but Manchester City fans will remember the 2017/18 season for entirely different reasons.

Gabriel Jesus’ 94th-minute winner at Southampton in May 2018 secured the Premier League champions 100 points, a feat no team had ever achieved before.

The centurions were formidable during the entire campaign, winning 32 games and losing just two – they clocked exactly 50 points at home and 50 points away, scoring 106 goals, which averages out at 2.79 per game.

Heavy investment in the summer with the additions of Bernardo Silva, Ederson and Kyle Walker, and a club record £57m on Aymeric Laporte in January, meant Pep Guardiola had a plethora of talent at his disposal.

Their 30-game unbeaten run started with a 3-1 win at home to Hull City in April 2017 and ended in a Premier League classic: a 4-3 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield in January 2018.

City then went on to lift their third Premier League title at the end of the season.

30

3-1 v Hull (8th April 2017)

3-1 v Watford (2nd January 2018)

Liverpool (L 3-4, 14th January 2018)

6 Liverpool 1987-1988 31 games

Liverpool achieved unprecedented success throughout the 1970s and 80s. They were dominant in all areas of the pitch, developing football icons such as Kenny Dalglish, Ian Rush and John Barnes along the way.

With Dalglish at the helm, the Reds needed to refocus ahead of the 1987/88 season after winning the club’s first-ever league and FA Cup double.

Top goalscorer Ian Rush had also been sold to Juventus for a then-British-record fee of £3.2m, which subsequently led to a rebuild, with Barnes, Peter Beardsley, Nigel Spackman and John Aldridge all signed.

Liverpool got the season off to a flying start, winning nine of their first 10 games and remained unbeaten in the league until March 1988.

It was Everton who handed Liverpool their first defeat, but the Reds ultimately had the last laugh, as they proceeded to lift their 17th English title in a season when they scored 87 goals.

Liverpool had also equalled Leeds United’s record of 29 games unbeaten in a single league campaign.

31

1-0 v Watford (4th May 1987)

1-1 v Derby (16th March 1988)

Everton (L 0-1, 20th March 1988)

5 Leeds 1968-1969 34 games

Don Revie spearheaded the beginning of an English record during the 1968/69 season, as Leeds would go on to lift the First Division trophy.

His side got off to a great start, winning seven of their opening nine games, before losing to Manchester City 3-1 away from home.

After experiencing a humiliating 5-1 defeat at Burnley – which would turn out to be their last of the season – Leeds then went 28 games unbeaten in the top flight of English football.

In the penultimate game of the season, Leeds secured the title in a 0-0 draw at Anfield against Liverpool. Revie’s men smashed numerous English records along the way, including the most points (67), most wins (27) and fewest defeats (2) in a single campaign.

Their unbeaten run would come to an end at the hands of a familiar team on this list, as they lost 3-2 to Everton the following season in August 1969.

34

0-0 v West Brom (26th October 1968)

1-1 v Burnley (26th August 1969)

Everton (L 2-3, 30th August 1969)

4 Chelsea 2004-2005 40 games

The 2004-05 season was a major turning point in the Roman Abramovich era, as Chelsea welcomed Jose Mourinho to Stamford Bridge.

That same summer, Abramovich signed Didier Drogba, Ricardo Carvalho, Paulo Ferreira, Petr Cech and Arjen Robben – so massive change was underway.

Only 41 at the time, Mourinho was brought into Chelsea to win trophies, and that’s exactly what he did in his first season.

Not only did Mourinho win the Premier League – a feat that hadn’t been achieved in 50 years at the club – in his first season, but he also smashed numerous records along the way, especially in the defensive department.

The Blues’ first defeat of the season came away at Manchester City in October 2004, and that would be the final time they would drop three points in a game for the rest of the campaign.

Mourinho’s defensive stability was key to the 29-game unbeaten run that Chelsea embarked on for the rest of the season, breaking the record for the most points in a Premier League season with 95.

Chelsea also broke the record for the fewest goals conceded in a season (15), while goalkeeper Cech clocked the most clean sheets the Premier League had ever seen in a season (24).

Mourinho’s side would carry their unbeaten run into the following season, right up until November 2005 when they lost to Manchester United, ending on an admirable 40 without defeat.

40

4-0 v Blackburn (23rd October 2004)

4-2 v Blackburn (29th October 2005)

Man Utd (L 0-1, 6th November 2005)

3 Nottingham Forest 1977-1978 42 games

Nottingham Forest conquered English and European football in the 1970s under iconic manager Brian Clough.

The club’s second-tier status didn’t last long when Clough took over as manager in 1975, as they were promoted two years later. Under Clough’s leadership, alongside assistant manager Peter Taylor, Forest quickly established themselves as a formidable force in the English top flight.

Following a third-place finish in the Second Division the previous season, Clough led Forest to the pinnacle of English football, as they went on to win the league, edging Liverpool by seven points to the title.

Their unbeaten streak began in November 1977 after an away loss to Leeds United, and they proceeded to go 26 games unbeaten to lift the trophy.

Forest didn’t experience their first loss until the following season in December 1978, when they lost out to the eventual champions Liverpool, despite setting a new English record for unbeaten matches.

If all of that wasn’t enough, Forest also went on to win the European Cup back-to-back in 1979 and 1980, cementing their legacy in the football history books forever.

42

0-0 v West Brom (26th November 1977)

1-0 v Bolton (25th November 1978)

Liverpool (L 0-2, 9th December 1978)

2 Liverpool 2019-2020 44 games

Jurgen Klopp was a god-like figure for Liverpool fans during his trophy-laden tenure at the club, as he brought so many iconic moments on and off the pitch.

During the 2019/20 season, the Reds were fierce at Anfield and it was seen as arguably the toughest fixture of the season for any Premier League side.

The season before, Liverpool had gone unbeaten 20 games and 17 games respectively – either side of a Manchester City defeat in January 2019 – but their 97 points total wasn’t enough to edge City’s 98.

And after bringing a sixth Champions League trophy back to the Anfield trophy cabinet in June 2019, Reds fans and players were desperate for domestic league success.

Liverpool’s momentous Premier League run without defeat lasted for 422 days, until the Reds travelled to Watford in February 2020 to be dealt their first loss of the season.

Klopp’s side were one victory away from the longest winning run in the English top flight, having won their past 18 league games. However, Liverpool would go on to claim their first Premier League title after 30 years in June 2020.

44

1-0 v Brighton (12th January 2019)

3-2 v West Ham (24th February 2020)

Watford (L 0-3, 29th February 2020)

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ByStephan Georgiou May 20, 2024 1 Arsenal 2003-2004 49 games

Arsenal’s invincible season is arguably the greatest achievement in English football history, as they topped Nottingham Forest’s record that lasted over 25 years.

Arsene Wenger’s side lifted the club’s third Premier league title by winning 26 of their 38 League games and drawing the other 12, meaning they had went the entire campaign without a single loss – the first time this had been done since the late 1800s.

The Gunners scored 73 goals, largely thanks to Thierry Henry, who bagged 30 goals to win the Golden Boot and conceded just 26 – with the likes of Sol Campbell, Kolo Toure and Jens Lehmann in top form over the season.

Henry also won the PFA Players’ Player of the Year and the Football Writers' Footballer of the Year, while Wenger was named Manager of the Season.

49

6-1 v Southampton (7th May 2003)

3-1 v Aston Villa (16th October 2004)

Man Utd (L 0-2, 24th October 2004)

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ByAlex Roberts Dec 15, 2023

Chelsea have been busy in the transfer market this summer, selling a score of players and bringing in a host more. Business, it should be known, is far from done.

Enzo Maresca has now been welcomed as the Blues' new manager and, having now conducted his opening press conference has commented on his desire to instil "the right mentality and culture" in west London.

Todd Boehly and Co can hardly be rebuked for a lack of ambition since assuming ownership at Chelsea in 2021, but market strategy has been errant and must be streamlined if the canyon between the Blues and those at the forefront of Premier League and European football is to be narrowed.

There is much to do, but Mauricio Pochettino's efforts last term have ensured that optimism has taken root in the Stamford Bridge soil, with purposeful moves being made and the outfit's flotsam being sifted through and disposed of for financial gain.

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (£30m)

Ian Maatsen (£37.5m)

Omari Kellyman (£19m)

Lewis Hall (£28m)

Marc Guiu (£5m)

Omari Hutchinson (£20m)

Tosin Adarabioyo (free)

Thiago Silva (free)

Hakim Ziyech (free)

There's an undeniable emphasis on establishing a youthful foundation, and while recent reports suggest that another teenage talent is being targeted, this one might just be the cream of the crop.

Chelsea transfer news

According to reports relayed by Football Transfers, Chelsea have made signing Stade Rennais starlet Desire Doue their top priority this summer.

The 19-year-old has been linked with most of the Premier League's heavy hitters already at this fledgling phase of his career but Chelsea – alongside Tottenham Hotspur – are now gearing up for a concerted approach toward securing his signature having held talks with representatives.

Rennes hope to make Doue their record sale, and after Manchester City signed Jeremy Doku for £55.5m last summer, this is expected to be in the ballpark of £60m.

Why Desire Doue is so sought-after

Despite his youth, Doue has established himself as a mainstay in Julien Stéphan's Ligue 1 side, having already completed 76 senior matches, scoring eight goals and adding seven assists.

Left winger

16

4

4

Central midfield

10

0

1

Attacking midfield

8

3

0

Right winger

7

0

1

Centre-forward

3

1

1

Highly versatile, Doue is silky-skilled and tactically flexible, with fluidity in his overall play and a capering sparkle to his movements that speak highly of his future presence at the top of the continental game.

It's no surprise that talent scout Jacek Kulig has already gushed over his qualities, calling him a "fantastic mix of dribbler and creator" and a "pure joy to watch".

After stepping onto the major stage during the 2022/23 campaign and starting 11 league matches, Doue played a starring role last term, scoring four goals and supplying six more across 43 matches in all competitions, starting 17 Ligue 1 fixtures – including the final eight in succession.

He is blooming into a highly-talented player, and given his breezy gait and elegance with the ball at his feet, he might be the perfect player to lift Maresca's Chelsea side to the desired level, perhaps even proving to be the west London club's own version of Jamal Musiala.

Desire Doue could be Chelsea's own Jamal Musiala

Chelsea once had Musiala in their clutches, but sold the prodigious talent to Bayern Munich when he was just 16 years old, with the bloated Cobham academy holding its fair share of potential and requiring a sacrifice.

BBC presenter Gary Lineker hailed the German's "magical" qualities during one sublime showing at Euro 2024, with Musiala evoking awe through his ball-carrying expertise.

As per FBref, he ranks among the top 16% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for shot-creating actions, the top 8% for pass completion, the top 15% for progressive carries and the top 1% for successful take-ons per 90.

Chelsea must rue the day they allowed him to waltz out of England's capital, but now they could rectify past wrongs by moving to sign Doue.

The up-and-coming Frenchman carries a similarly dynamic sheen to his skill set, ranking among the top 6% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for progressive passes and successful take-ons and the top 15% for tackles per 90.

Clearly both progressive players with a knack for wrong-footing their opponents with their slick and stylish movements into the final third, shuttling through on goal with ease.

Analyst Ben Mattinson has noted the player's semblance to Musiala's kind of profile. Simply, he's an entertainer. And while Chelsea are crafting a team with variegated options and an impressive range of talent, Doue could be the kind of player to lift Stamford Bridge's roof and offer something truly unique at the start of an exciting new project.

Mattinson has also pronounced Doue a "special talent" and it's clear to see that with apt nurturing, he could flower into one of the standout players of his position – whatever that ends up being.

In Ligue 1 last year, the teenager averaged 2.1 dribbles per game (winning 67% of his efforts). Musiala, in comparison, averaged 3.0 dribbles per match in the German Bundesliga, succeeding 60% of the time.

Doue is fast establishing himself as one of the most talented young midfielders on the continent, and while Chelsea are pushing to land a variety of teenage talents, this one could bypass such peers in west London and earn an instant place at the front of Maresca's first team.

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