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Also, why did K Gowtham bowl the final over? Key questions from the Kings XI vs Mumbai match answered

Saurabh Somani01-Oct-20202:59

How do Kings XI solve their death-bowling woes?

Why did offspinnerK Gowtham bowl the last over? Simply put, because the Kings XI Punjab have a lack of death-bowling options. The player with the most experience and credentials for bowling at the death is Chris Jordan, but they’ve found it difficult to fit him into the XI. Mujeeb Ur Rahman has also had some success at the death, but he has not been in the XI either.Moreover, the Kings XI opted to bowl out Sheldon Cottrell by the 13th over. While Cottrell had a good day with 1 for 20 in four overs, it meant the last seven overs would have to be shared between Mohammed Shami, James Neesham, Ravi Bishnoi and Gowtham. None of those options have been very good at the death. There was a case for slipping in the Gowtham over early on, but KL Rahul perhaps did not want to bowl the offspinner with Rohit Sharma set at the crease. He didn’t go to Glenn Maxwell either.That miscalculation would go on to hurt the Kings XI. In the history of the IPL, only 18 times has a right arm offspinner bowled the final over in the first innings. And the last time it happened before this game was in 2014. Gowtham ended up delivering the second-most expensive final over by a spinner, with Kieron Pollard and Hardik Pandya smashing 25 runs off it.How do Kings XI solve their death-bowling woes? It looks increasingly likely that they’ll have to bring in at least one of Mujeeb or Jordan, most likely in place of Neesham. How much that fixes their issue remains to be seen.ESPNcricinfo LtdDoes the ICC need to rethink the DRS rule on runs taken? At the end of the 17th over when Mumbai were batting, Mohammed Shami appealed successfully for an lbw against Pollard. Pollard reviewed it and replays showed the batsman had got an inside edge on it, so the decision was overturned. However, in accordance with the ICC’s rules, the ball was deemed dead and so the single the batsmen had completed did not count. It was a legitimate run for Pollard and Mumbai, and on another day, it could have significantly impacted the result.

Pollard and #MI denied a single. LBW given. Reviewed. Inside edge confirmed. But the easy run they took won’t count. Dear @ICC, this might cost someone the World Cup someday. Need a rethink. Umpires will have to reserve their decision till the ball is dead. #MIvKXIP

— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) October 1, 2020

Essentially, according to the rules, “the batting side, while benefiting from the reversal of the dismissal, shall not benefit from any runs that may subsequently have accrued from the delivery had the on-field umpire originally made a Not-out decision, other than any No-ball penalty”. Also, “if an original decision of Not out is changed to Out, the ball shall retrospectively be deemed to have become dead from the moment of the dismissal event. All subsequent events, including any runs scored, shall be ignored.”Think back to the IPL 2019 final. Lasith Malinga got Shardul Thakur lbw with the final ball. Chennai Super Kings reviewed. Even if the decision was over-turned, Super Kings would have been denied the runs. Thakur and non-striker Ravindra Jadeja could have run two but their team would have lost by one run still because the runs wouldn’t have counted.Did KL Rahul start too slowly? In their last game against the Rajasthan Royals, Rahul seemed to consciously opt for the anchoring role while opening partner Mayank Agarwal went at the bowling. The merits of whether that should be the approach adopted or not are a debate for another day. But in a chase on a big ground against a quality bowling side like Mumbai, the Kings XI might have been better served by Rahul going harder at the start than he did, instead of slipping into strike-rotation mode.He eventually finished with just 17 off 19, which is always the danger in a T20 when you play an anchoring role: you can end up dismissed before you have “caught up” so to speak, which leaves your side in deeper trouble.The approach seemed more inexplicable given how the Kings XI had structured their side: lots of batting depth and fewer bowling options. They had Gowtham – T20 strike rate of 162.24 – batting at No. 8. In theory, that much depth should free up the openers to go harder.How did Mumbai tie down Glenn Maxwell? He came into IPL 2020 on the back of some great form for Australia against England, but so far in the tournament, Maxwell hasn’t really taken off. He had a good opportunity to correct that today, having walked in in the ninth over and with a free-striking Nicholas Pooran for company.However, Maxwell couldn’t get any sort of timing, power, or balance in his shot-making. He was particularly tied down by Rahul Chahar’s legspin. It isn’t a mode of bowling that has particularly troubled Maxwell overall – he averages 21.26 at a strike rate of 167.01 against leggies overall – but Chahar’s execution was spot on. He bowled 10 balls to Maxwell, giving him nothing straight or straying on the pads, and slowing it up. If Maxwell wanted to hit him, he had to manufacture his own pace while going against the turn and reaching for the ball: nine balls were outside off, only one was on the stumps. The ploy worked, and Maxwell eventually fell to Chahar, slogging to deep midwicket.Glenn Maxwell hasn’t had the best IPL so far•ESPNcricinfo LtdWhy did Karun Nair bat at No. 3? Nair’s game is suited to batting in the top order. He has not really played as a finisher in any IPL team or for his state side Karnataka, so if he’s in the XI, he fits in better at the top of the order. In some ways, once they decided that Nair is part of their starting side, Kings XI were a little hamstrung in terms of batting order flexibility.There is also the argument to be made that the likes of Pooran and Maxwell should get the maximum number of balls to face, which is best served by having them at three and four. If Kings XI want to split them to add greater heft to their batting, they would still make a better fit at three and five.Nair hadn’t come out to bat against the Rajasthan Royals, when the opening partnership went deep, so his role seems to be a floating one, where he comes in if an early wicket falls. What the Kings XI need to decide is whether they need a floater if they bat so deep.

The unexpected biggest winner of the Rafael Devers trade might be Baltimore Orioles designated hitter Ryan O'Hearn.

Thanks to the Boston Red Sox trading Devers to the San Francisco Giants on Sunday, Devers now switches from the American League to the National League, allowing O'Hearn to move up to first in the AL All-Star voting for designated hitters after the first update. Before the trade, Devers led all designated hitters in the AL with 796,382 votes, which are now transferring to the NL, where they rank second behind Shohei Ohtani's 1,398,771 votes. O'Hearn will jump into first place with 353,029 votes.

After the trade, O'Hearn shouted out Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow for trading Devers and thus putting him in position to be named an All-Star.

"I just wanna shoutout Craig Breslow real quick," O'Hearn said on . “Appreciate you, man, for helping me get in the standings. What a wild deal."

O'Hearn has yet to make the MLB All-Star team over his eight years in the majors, but he is now on the verge of achieving that special career feat. It's been a career-year so far for O'Hearn, who is slashing .306/.386/.495 with 10 home runs and 27 RBIs. With Devers in the NL, O'Hearn now has a much better chance at seeing his career season rewarded with his first ever All-Star appearance.

Kylian Mbappe has officially joined Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in one of world football’s rarest elite clubs after hitting 60 goals in the 2025 calendar year during Real Madrid’s draw with Girona. His penalty at Montilivi not only marked an extraordinary milestone but also cemented his place in French football history as the first since Just Fontaine to reach such a total.

Mbappe hits 60-goal mark for 2025

Mbappe reached the 60-goal mark for the 2025 calendar year when he converted a penalty during Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw against Girona on Sunday night. The Frenchman was frustrated throughout the scrappy contest, repeatedly crowded out by defenders and denied a second goal after an inadvertent handball moments before Girona struck the opener. Despite Madrid controlling phases of the match, they were forced to settle for another draw away from home, allowing Barcelona to grab La Liga's top spot.

The equaliser carried historic significance even as Real Madrid’s performance raised concerns, extending their run without an away win to a third league match. The result also increased pressure on Xabi Alonso, whose side have struggled to maintain consistency in recent weeks despite Mbappé’s extraordinary scoring output. Girona, who have historically troubled Madrid at Montilivi, again proved difficult to break down and came close to taking all three points before late Madrid pressure fizzled out.

Mbappe’s goal ensured he remained at the heart of the title race narrative, but the shared points exposed deeper vulnerabilities in Madrid’s current form. With Barcelona surging, Madrid’s margin for error grows thinner, and the reliance on their superstar has become increasingly obvious. Even on a historic night for him personally, the broader implications of the draw left Madrid with more questions than answers.

AdvertisementGettyJoins Messi, Ronaldo and Lewandowski in special club

Mbappe’s 60th goal of the year places him alongside Messi, Ronaldo and Robert Lewandowski as the only players in the 21st century to hit such a tally in a single calendar year. His achievement is particularly significant in French football history, as he becomes the first French player since Fontaine in 1958 to score 60 goals for club and country within the same year. 

It also underscores the unique pressure he carries at Madrid, where he has instantly become the focal point of the team’s tactical structure. His prolific output has masked wider issues within the squad, with Madrid lacking the stability needed to keep pace with Barcelona despite possessing one of world football’s most lethal forwards. The club’s form in late 2025 has made Mbappe’s reliability even more important, especially in tight matches where he is often required to produce decisive moments alone.

Still, the broader context of his performance reveals a player thriving even amid turbulence. Between league matches, Champions League fixtures, and international duty with France, Mbappe has maintained an elite level of efficiency in both scoring and chance creation. His ability to sustain such production across competitions highlights why he is now mentioned in the same breath as Ronaldo and Messi when it comes to calendar-year scoring feats.

Mbappe's spectacular 2025 calendar year

The 2025 calendar year has been a definitive turning point for Mbappe, marking his transition from global superstar to Real Madrid’s undisputed centrepiece and leader. His first full year at the Bernabeu failed to bear fruit as Los Blancos went trophyless. However, across the first six months of 2025, he delivered crucial goals in the Champions League knockout rounds and formed threatening partnerships across Madrid’s front line.

As the 2025–26 season began, Mbappe immediately picked up where he left off, scoring at a remarkable rate and reinforcing his status as the league’s most dangerous forward. He combined his individual brilliance with increased leadership responsibility, while also taking on a central tactical role in Alonso’s evolving system. His contributions for France during this period were equally significant, as he captained Les Bleus through qualifiers and continued to deliver decisive goals.

By late November, his statistical profile reflected one of the most complete individual years in modern football, with 60 goals across club and country and a growing list of match-winning displays. This figure included goals in league action, European competition, domestic tournaments, and international matches.

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Getty ImagesMbappe looking to help Real Madrid catch up with Barcelona

Real Madrid will now look to stabilise their league form as they enter a crucial stretch of winter fixtures, with Mbappe expected to continue carrying much of the attacking responsibility. Upcoming matches, particularly their trip to San Mames to face Athletic Club, will test whether the team can convert individual brilliance into sustained collective momentum. With his goals keeping Madrid firmly in the title hunt, the club will hope their superstar’s historic year becomes the catalyst for a stronger run heading into 2026. 

One Manchester United star could now leave Old Trafford in 2026, according to Sky Sports, and it seems Ruben Amorim and INEOS are clashing behind the scenes.

Amorim calls out Man Utd midfielder at Carrington

A big talking point again so far this season at Old Trafford has been on Amorim’s system and finding a position for captain Bruno Fernandes.

The Portuguese star has dropped deeper to allow summer signings Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha to occupy the two number 10 roles in Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system. There hasn’t been room for Manuel Ugarte, though, who has struggled for game time after previously starring under Amorim at Sporting CP.

It has now been revealed that the Man Utd manager wasn’t happy with Ugarte following the Europa League final defeat to Tottenham. In fact, Amorim criticised Ugarte in front of his Man Utd teammates during a Carrington meeting towards the end of the 2024/25 campaign.

Amorim felt that Ugarte ‘had let his work rate slide from their time together at Sporting’, adding that the midfielder ‘had gotten comfortable and said he did not recognise him as the same player from their first stint together’.

One midfielder who Amorim has been rating in 2025 is Casemiro, however, a worrying transfer update for the Man Utd boss has now emerged.

Casemiro leaving Man Utd for free a real possibility

According to Sky Sports, the prospect of Casemiro leaving Man Utd on a free transfer is a ‘real possibility’.

It is stated that the Red Devils hold an option to extend the Brazilian’s stay by an additional year, but that may not happen as United look ‘to free up space on the wage bill to strengthen the midfield area next season’.

Casemiro, who is Man Utd’s biggest earner on £350,000-a-week, has been a regular under Amorim and the manager ideally would want the midfielder to stay until 2027.

Reports have claimed that Amorim and the club’s executives are at odds over Casemiro’s future. The manager thinks he is still needed at Old Trafford, whereas executives are asking for a wage cut instead of triggering the extension option, something which Casemiro is unlikely to accept.

Rank

Player

Gross pay per week

Gross pay per year

1

Casemiro

£350,000

£18,200,000

2

Bruno Fernandes

£300,000

£15,600,000

3

Matthijs de Ligt

£195,000

£10,140,000

4

Harry Maguire

£190,000

£9,880,000

5

Matheus Cunha

£180,000

£9,360,000

Since joining in 2022 from Real Madrid, the now 33-year-old has made 135 appearances for Man Utd, scoring 20 goals and registering 13 assists. A regular alongside Fernandes this season, Amorim has selected Casemiro ahead of Kobbie Mainoo and Ugarte, praising the Brazilian recently.

“I think he gives a lot of experience. He’s so important for us. Today he ran a lot. He had to press so high and then return, and he’s doing that. So, I’m really pleased with him. And the other guys need to look at Casemiro.”

However, in 2026, it looks as if Amorim could lose one of his important players, potentially putting a strain on his relationship with INEOS in the process.

Forget Sesko: Man Utd's "terrible" dud is now becoming INEOS' worst signing

MatériaMais Notícias

Anunciado nesta quinta-feira (11) pelo Santos, o atacante Guilherme defendeu as cores do Fortaleza na última temporada e revelou como estava o ambiente da Vila Belmiro na partida que decretou o descenso do Peixe à Série B.

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➡️ Tudo sobre o Peixe agora no WhatsApp. Siga o nosso novo canal Lance! Santos

O jogador, que pertencia ao Grêmio e defendeu a equipe nordestina por empréstimo em 2023, atuou como titular no duelo. Na ocasião, o atacante foi substituído na segunda etapa e citou “tristeza no olhar” dos jogadores do Alvinegro.

– Eu confesso que foi um dia bem triste. Nós (Fortaleza) ganhamos o jogo, obviamente como profissionais, nós viemos aqui para ganhar aquela partida, mas, particularmente para mim, foi um dia triste. Não porque hoje eu estou no Santos, pelo contrário. Eu havia sido substituído ao longo do segundo, dava pra ver a tristeza no olhar dos meus companheiros de trabalho. Eram meus adversários naquele dia, porém, são companheiros de trabalho. Se tratando de Santos, eu confesso que a minha torcida não era para que o Santos caísse por toda grandeza – afirmou Guilherme.

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Na sequência, ele fez um pedido ao presidente Marcelo Teixeira, para que o mandatário adie as obras previstas na casa santista. Na visão do jogador, é fundamental que o Santos atue na Vila Belmiro durante a disputa da Série B. O estádio pode fechar para reformas a partir da metade de 2024, e ideia do Alvinegro Praiano é mandar suas partidas no Pacaembu.

– Estou torcendo para que essa obra se estenda por algum tempo. Já viemos jogar aqui algumas vezes e é difícil jogar aqui. É uma tradição, história do clube. Na minha vez eu vou jogar fora da Vila? Não quero. Quero jogar aqui. É o ano mais importante da história do clube. Não estar aqui nesse ano, não fazer parte da história que será escrita, não seria tão legal. Eu penso que se puder falar para o presidente jogar essa obra para o ano que vem – finalizou o atleta.

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Guilherme foi contratado pelo Santos por R$ 4,8 milhões, que adquiriu 60% dos direitos econômicos do atleta. O contrato é válido por três temporadas.

Tudo sobre

Santos

After joining Tottenham Hotspur as a 15-year-old, very few people would have heard of Harry Kane, but nearly two decades on, he’s now one of the most talked-about talismen in world football.

He emerged through the youth system in North London, before nailing down his place in the first team squad and subsequently breaking a whole host of long-standing club records.

There’s no doubt that the most impressive is his tally of 280 goals for the Lilywhites – a figure that makes him the highest goalscorer in the club’s 143-year history.

However, he’s since moved to Bayern Munich and carried over his incredible record to Germany, netting 103 goals in his 106 outings across all competitions after his £82m transfer in 2023.

Everyone knows Kane for his remarkable efforts in front of goal in the present day, but many aren’t aware of his tremendous rise as a youngster, which has led him to his world-class status.

Harry Kane

435

280

Jimmy Greaves

376

266

Bobby Smith

316

211

Heung-min Son

454

173

Martin Chivers

350

167

Harry Kane’s youth record at Tottenham

Unlike a lot of footballers in the present day, Kane’s journey to stardom was not a straightforward one, with numerous bumps and transitions appearing throughout his journey to professional success.

He once played for bitter rivals Arsenal as a youngster, but was released by the Gunners for being “too chubby” – but he was given a golden opportunity to further his career by Spurs at 15.

His rise was rapid for the Lilywhites, earning a scholarship just a year after his arrival – a feat that is often unheard of given the sheer competition for a career in professional football.

However, his success was all the more remarkable considering he transitioned into a centre-forward from his original central midfield role, but such a decision would prove to be an immediate success.

Tangible success was seen as a result in his first year at U18 level, as Kane netted a phenomenal return of 18 goals in just 22 outings, which in turn led to his first appearance in a first-team matchday squad in 2009/10.

There’s been no looking back for the England international since, but who will be the next player to make a name for themselves out of the Lilywhites’ impressive academy setup?

The player who could be the next Kane for Spurs

After the return of Fabio Paratici at Spurs this week, it would be a surprise to no one if the Italian tried to delve into the market to land a new talisman in the months ahead.

Richarlison has shown early glimpses of promise over recent months, scoring three times in the Premier League, but he’s struggled to meet the expectations demanded on him by Thomas Frank in recent weeks.

The Brazilian is now without a goal in his last four outings, with fellow striker Dominic Solanke also unable to make the desired effect due to his constant struggles with his ankle.

The aforementioned duo have cost the club upwards of £115m combined, but ultimately have failed to deliver the goods on a constant basis – with Paratici needing to rectify such business.

He could easily save the club millions in the years ahead should he put trust and faith in academy star Ashiah Haughton-Sinclair, with the teenager a player with a huge future in North London.

At just 14, it may appear as though he will have to wait a while for his first-team opportunity, but there’s no reason why he can’t force himself into the reckoning, given his staggering record.

It’s been claimed that the teenager has already racked up over 400 goals at various academy levels, with his name now one of the biggest talking points behind the scenes in North London.

He’s been featuring above his age group for the last few seasons, with Haughton-Sinclair often featuring for the U15 and U16 sides during the early months of 2025/26.

Last season alone, he netted 65 goals, but he’s continued his incredible goalscoring feats this time around, already finding the back of the net on 30 separate occasions.

He’s also laid on ten assists for his teenage teammates, taking his tally to 40 combined goal contributions – a simply remarkable feat given it’s only October.

As a result of his tremendous form, Haughton-Sinclair was recently named in the England U15 squad, capping off what has been a sensational few months for the youngster.

There’s little denying that he has a long way to go before making his mark in the professional game, but he’s already been handed a scholarship two years ahead of schedule, which highlights the faith shown in him by the club.

Should he continue on his current development path, there’s no reason why he can’t be the next big star to emerge out of the Lilywhites academy and potentially reach the levels achieved by Kane.

Frank has a "Harry Kane regen" who could end Richarlison's Spurs career

Tottenham Hotspur could save millions by unleashing a star who could follow in Harry Kane’s footsteps.

ByEthan Lamb Oct 16, 2025

William Saliba remains fully committed to the Arsenal cause for now, having signed a new long-term contract, but he has admitted that any interest shown from Real Madrid will always be “tempting”. That admission will concern some in north London, with there no guarantees that the highly-rated France international defender will see out his fresh terms at Emirates Stadium.

New contract: When Saliba's deal at Arsenal expires

Saliba has become a talismanic presence for the Gunners, with a formidable partnership being struck up with Gabriel Magalhaes at the heart of their backline. A collection of assured performances over a prolonged period of time have been rewarded with a new deal through to the summer of 2030.

Arsenal hope that agreement will fend off any unwelcome interest from afar, with exit talk being brought to a close for now. Saliba is happy in his current surroundings, but is aware that speculation will forever rage when it comes to potential future challenges.

AdvertisementGettyTransfer talk: Why Saliba is ignoring interest from Real Madrid

There were plenty of rumours to be found regarding admiring glances from Spain prior to an extension being thrashed out at the Emirates, with La Liga giants Real Madrid considered to hold Saliba in the highest regard. However, no official offer from Santiago Bernabeu was ever tabled.

Saliba admits to having his head turned slightly, though, with it impossible to ignore Los Blancos and their collection of Galacticos. The 24-year-old told when asked about the links with Real: “Of course, it’s always tempting when a club like that tries to lure you, but for me, [my desire] was to stay at Arsenal. First, win trophies, before thinking about anything else.”

Trophy quest: Saliba targets silverware with Arsenal

Saliba has spoken on a regular basis of his desire to collect major honours with Arsenal. He has two Community Shield wins to his name, but is still waiting on the most prestigious of accolades.

He said after penning fresh terms with the Gunners and ignoring any transfer gossip: “To be honest, I was not really focused on the clubs from the outside, I was just focused on here. I knew that I wanted to stay here for more years, so I was not really focused on the other clubs. So I’m happy to be here and I signed a new deal, so full focus on my club.

“I didn’t win anything here except the Community Shield. I’ve done nothing for this club to think about leaving. I want to stay here and win a lot of trophies. I love this club. I cannot leave this club without giving them (the fans) something back. My first choice was to stay here and win everything first.

“We have a good team, we play well, we are good. We only miss trophies. The team and I will give everything to win this title. Of course, the people won’t remember you if you win nothing. So, at the end, it's trophies, trophies, trophies.”

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AFPPremier League title bid & World Cup: Challenges for Saliba

A move to Madrid would allow Saliba to reunite with Kylian Mbappe, a man who he represents France alongside and once worked with in the academy ranks at AS Bondy. When asked if they could become club colleagues again in 2026, Saliba told Le10 Sport: “No, no, the Bondy connection is with the French national team, for now.”

France are close to wrapping up qualification for next summer’s World Cup, with Saliba and Mbappe expected to help make Les Bleus fiercely competitive at that event – having claimed a global crown in 2018 and suffered a penalty shootout defeat to Lionel Messi’s Argentina in the 2022 final.

Saliba will hope to head to that event as a Premier League title winner, with Arsenal setting the early pace in English football. Mikel Arteta’s side have opened up a six-point lead on the chasing pack, as they look to secure domestic dominance for the first time since the fabled ‘Invincibles’ of 2003-04 – with a Champions League clash with Slavia Praha and a trip to Sunderland set to carry them into the next international break.

Ryan Babel has finally closed the chapter on his first Liverpool home, a property that witnessed footballing dreams, life lessons, and unforgettable chaos. In a recent social media post, Babel shared one of the wildest moments the house had witnessed, when Dutch teammate Royston Drenthe built a nightclub inside and forgot to pay rent during his spell at Everton.

Babel rented Liverpool home to Drenthe

Babel joined Liverpool in July 2007, transferring for around £11.5m. Over four seasons, he made 146 appearances and scored 22 goals, leaving fans with memorable strikes, including against Manchester United in 2008 and Marseille in the Champions League in the same year. Off the pitch, Babel bought his first home in Liverpool after leaving his parents. The house became a hub of memories, laughter, and lessons and, for a brief spell, chaos. Dutch teammate Drenthe, known for his controversial lifestyle, took over the property, but skipped rental payments during his Everton days in 2011-12 season, and even built a nightclub inside the house, earning the title “tenant from hell,” from Babel.

AdvertisementAFPBad boy Drenthe lived it up in Liverpool

The former Liverpool player opened up about the memories and chaotic times he spent at his Merseyside home. Babel further claims some events were so drastic in nature, it's hard to make such stuff up.

"This house holds so many memories…it was the first place I moved into after leaving my parents’ home, full of excitement, mistakes, and lessons. When I left Liverpool, I rented it out to a few tenants… one of them being my good old Dutch teammate Royston Drenthe. Let’s just say he gave “tenant from hell” a new meaning…he somehow forgot to pay rent during his Everton days and even decided to build a nightclub inside my house without permission. You can’t make this stuff up!," Babel said in a social media post.

He further added: "Still, I’ve always been proud to own this place…it’s in a prime spot, filled with memories, laughter, and a bit of chaos. The only reason I’m selling now is because of that interest-only adjustable-rate mortgage I was talked into back when I knew absolutely nothing about real estate. Lesson learned the hard way!"

Drenthe was a controversial figure both on and off the field throughout his career. Known for his immense talent, he was often overshadowed by his turbulent lifestyle marked by disciplinary issues, late arrivals to training, clashes with managers, and partying, including sneaking girls into the training centre’s jacuzzi late at night. His volatile behaviour led to strained relations with teammates and coaches alike, with David Moyes famously confronting him over his attitude. Drenthe's off-field antics also fuelled his "bad boy" reputation.

Babel's journey post Liverpool

After leaving Liverpool in January 2011, the Dutch forward joined Hoffenheim, making 46 appearances and scoring six goals, before returning to Ajax for the 2012–2013 season, playing 29 matches and scoring 11 goals while mentoring younger players. He then moved to Kasimpasa, becoming a key attacker with over 60 appearances and 17 goals, followed by a short stint at Al Ain in the UAE. Babel later played 13 matches for Spanish side Deportivo, scoring three goals, and then joined Besiktas, contributing 15 goals in over 50 matches and winning the Super Lig title in 2016–17. A brief spell at Fulham preceded his time at Galatasaray, where he scored more than 22 goals in 85 appearances and became a veteran presence.

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AFPLife after football for Babel

Babel retired from professional football in November 2024 at age 38. Post-retirement, he has shifted focus to business ventures, particularly real estate and cryptocurrency investments, reflecting the lessons learned from his Liverpool house and career travels. From Anfield goals to managing tenants like Drenthe, Babel’s journey proves that life off the pitch can be just as eventful as the one on it.

It’s the same old story at Manchester United – even Saturday’s win can’t mask that.

Seven games into the Premier League season, United are ninth, having lost three times already and been dumped out of the Carabao Cup by League Two side Grimsby Town.

There have been signs of progress, no doubt, but it’s been a familiar tale for the Red Devils, whose fanbase recognise the importance of the juncture just ahead.

Ruben Amorim has gone through the wringer since making the move from Portugal, leaving two-in-a-row champions Sporting Lisbon and taking on a huge job at Old Trafford, who had parted with Erik ten Hag early into the 2024/25 season, with cup triumphs papering over the general lack of progress at the club.

And while all of a United persuasion would love to see the Portuguese tactician pull it together, he is nearly on borrowed time in the hot seat.

The latest on Amorim's Man Utd future

“What makes me suffer is to lose games, not to lose my job.” This is what Amorim said in his pre-match press conference, ahead of Manchester United’s 2-0 win against Sunderland in the Premier League.

He wore his passion on his sleeve as he addressed the reporters in front of him, advocating vehemently for his system and stressing that it has the capacity to thrive in the Premier League.

Amorim, at least, has spoken with candour about his and Man United’s situation. He knows things need to change, and he knows that results have not been good enough, having won 19 of 50 matches at the helm.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, at least outwardly, has given the 40-year-old is full support, but it can’t go on like this. Results need to change, fast. Should it prove more of the same after the October international break, INEOS may well bite the bullet and end Amorim’s stay.

Post-Fergie Man Utd Manager Win Records (PL)

Manager

Apps

Win %

Jose Mourinho

93

54%

Erik ten Hag

85

52%

Ole Gunnar Solskjær

109

51%

Louis van Gaal

76

51%

David Moyes

34

50%

Ralf Rangnick

24

41%

Ruben Amorim*

33

27%

*before Sunderland

Data via Statmuse

A number of candidates have already been earmarked, and there’s one who might strike fans as particularly curious.

Man Utd could sign a more radical coach than Amorim

Manchester United. Never ordinary. ‘Hated, ignored, but never ignored’ is more than just a mantra; it is a truth, and the club need a big personality with tactics proven to work in the Premier League.

Roberto de Zerbi, with this in mind, could be the perfect coach to take the hot seat at the Theatre of Dreams, having previously impressed as the manager of Brighton & Hove Albion before leaving in 2024 and joining Marseille.

Last season, the possession-based tactician guided Marseille to a second-placed finish in Ligue 1, having languished to an eighth-place conclusion previously. They are third this term, with four wins from six outings.

Well, according to transfer insider Graeme Bailey, De Zerbi is very much on Man United’s shortlist “if and when” they decide to move on from Amorim, very well regarded at the top end of the INEOS hierarchy.

Aged 46, De Zerbi might field a more conventional 4-2-3-1 formation than Amorim’s controversial three-back line-up, but he’s certainly more radical on the spectrum than most.

He has a fan in Pep Guardiola, who praised the “unique” style of football the Italian implements and remarked that he “monopolises the ball in a way it hasn’t been for a long time.”

Finishing, the Manchester City boss made quite the claim, saying he is “one of the most influential managers of the last 20 years.”

A complicated, sharp-witted manager, De Zerbi’s Marseille completed more passes (3092) in Ligue 1 last season than any other side not hailing from the capital, and his desire to attack the press and implement through a short build-up is something not wildly different to Amorim’s vision, but perhaps could be better implemented at Old Trafford.

He has, after all, actually proven himself in the Premier League, instrumental in taking a Brighton side who had a reputation for attractive football after their promotion and then shaping them into something sustainable and competitive at the higher end of the division.

Across the 2023/24 campaign, only Man City completed more passes than the Seagulls, so it’s clear to see why he has a fan in Pep. If De Zerbi were to arrive at Man United and get a tune out of the underperforming Redmen, there’s no reason why this couldn’t be a style of football to propel the club back into the limelight, consistently challenging for the biggest prizes once again.

Premier League 23/24: Most Passes

Club

Final Position

Passes

Manchester City

1st

26,251

Brighton & Hove Albion

11th

23,547

Liverpool

3rd

22,515

Tottenham Hotspur

5th

22,488

Chelsea

6th

21,926

Manchester United

8th

18,074

Stats via Premier League

Last season, Man United finished fifth in the Premier League passing charts, having completed 15,931 across the campaign. FBref also reveal Brighton achieved an xG (expected goals) total of 56.8 that year, whereas United hit only 52.6 across the 2024/25 campaign.

Described as “one of the best coaches in the world” by his players at the Stade Velodrome, De Zerbi might be somewhat radical in his tactical vision, but he has proven himself in the Premier League and earned the admiration and respect of the division’s heavyweights.

This is what Man United need. Amorim might be a left-field thinker, but he’s trying to fit square pegs into round holes, and a freshen-up looks like it would be the best thing for all parties at this stage.

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Celtic hero Chris Sutton put it best when summarising the situation surrounding Adam Idah at Parkhead – “a total mess”.

A surprise late approach from Swansea City looked to have spelt the end for the Irishman’s time in Glasgow, only for the Hoops to hold fire amid the wait to acquire a replacement for manager Brendan Rodgers.

Heading into deadline day, the former Norwich City man ultimately sealed his bumper £7m switch to South Wales, bringing an end to a mixed 18-month stint in Scottish football.

Having been stung by the failure to replace Kyogo Furuhashi in January, the Celtic hierarchy had thankfully learned their lesson, with a successor to Idah already lined up months in advance.

Oh no, wait, that’s not what happened, is it? Instead, in the dying embers of the window, the Scottish champions were left scouring the free transfer market, even considering an approach for an injury-prone Patrick Bamford amid his recent Leeds exit.

As it proved, Rodgers got out the phonebook to reunite with Kelechi Iheanacho, having enjoyed a fruitful partnership with the Nigerian at Leicester City.

As for Idah, while the manner of his exit – and the search to replace him – represented a ‘total mess’, were Rodgers and co actually right to sell him?

Why Celtic had to sell Adam Idah

The caveat to this, of course, is as explained above. The Premiership giants should only have sanctioned a sale if a suitable replacement had already been lined up.

That being said, a £7m fee for a player of his ilk was undoubtedly too good to turn down, with Celtic only taking a slight hit on their initial £9m investment.

In truth, that was a fee that should never have been dished out in the first place, with the Hoops gambling on a player who had scored just 17 goals – yes 17 – in 116 games in all competitions during his time at Norwich City.

Of course, the 24-year-old’s return of nine goals in 19 games during his initial loan spell in 2024 – which included that Scottish Cup final clincher – was reason for encouragement, although the subsequent burden of a £9m fee, and the No.9 shirt, appeared to weigh too heavy.

Yes, there were high points, including his brace at Villa Park and the 20 goals in all competitions last term, yet his overall record of 29 goals in 76 games makes for disappointing reading – as too does his 19 big chances missed in the Premiership in 2024/25, as per Sofascore.

Failure to score in the early knockings of the new campaign, alongside his shoot-out miss away at Kairat, appeared to pave the way for his departure, with Celtic left to reflect on an expensive gamble that simply didn’t pay off.

At Ibrox, meanwhile, Rangers could well have secured their own Idah figure with the eye-watering £10m capture of Everton’s Youssef Chermiti, while Celtic may have to rely on a familiar face to deliver the goods this season.

How Daizen Maeda's value compares to Idah and Chermiti

If the £9m dished out on Idah raised eyebrows, then the £10m that the Gers have forked out for Chermiti appears even more headscratching, not least considering that the Portuguese striker has failed to score a single senior goal during his time with the Toffees.

As Celtic have seen in the case of the ex-Norwich man, splashing the cash on a player doesn’t always lead to success on the field, with the club’s best work having come when plucking a bargain from the market.

Matt O’Riley’s £1.5m acquisition is a perfect case in point, as too is the £1.6m fee that was forked out to make Daizen Maeda’s initial loan move a permanent deal, with few deals having proven quite so fruitful.

Market Movers

It hasn’t always been plain sailing for the Japanese speedster – having been guilty of his own spot-kick miss last month – but boy has he been effective during his three-and-a-half-year stay in Glasgow.

There are few better sights in football than the 27-year-old breathing down the neck of a defender with his relentless pace, having proven himself to be a physical “machine” in recent years, in the words of his former coach at Yokohama F Marinos, John Hutchinson.

A unique talent in European football, let alone Scotland, Maeda has more than warranted his growing cult hero status at Parkhead, having taken his game to even greater heights last season.

While an at-times profligate figure in his early Celtic days, having notably missed three big chances across just six Champions League group games in 2022/23, the ex-Yokohama man is now Rodgers’ go-to man.

Hibs

14

7

Hearts

12

6

Livingston

7

6

Rangers

21

5

Killie

11

5

Aberdeen

11

5

St Johnstone

10

5

Motherwell

11

4

Indeed, 2024/25 yielded a ridiculous tally of 33 goals and 12 assists in all competitions, including four goals during the club’s encouraging European run.

While only a solitary goal has followed this time around, the value of Maeda to Rodgers and to Celtic is immense. Indeed, according to Transfermarkt, he is now worth as much as €15m (£13m).

That not only eclipses the recent fees dished out for his fellow forwards Idah and Chermiti, but also the pair’s actual market values, deemed to be in the region of €6.5m (£5.5m) and €8m (£7m), respectively.

There will be much debate at Parkhead over who will take on Idah’s mantle as the starting striker, be it Iheanacho, Johnny Kenny or Shin Yamada, but in reality, if this season is to be a success, then it will be Maeda who is central to it.

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