From the hurt at not being picked in the IPL to the time when he wasn’t picked for 14 matches after an ODI century – Tiwary doesn’t hold back

Interview by Varun Shetty15-Dec-2019At 34, what are the things you prioritise?Age is obviously just a number. If we listen to the interviews or read interviews of great athletes, they always say that this is just a number and we also feel the same way because it’s all about fitness, your awareness, your understanding of the game.Priorities, as far as professional life is concerned – I want my performances to be better than they were previous season. And also keep performing to the best of my ability and make sure that my consistency rate is there all the time. And I believe deep down that one season of Ranji Trophy can again bring that luck back to me, as far as being picked for India is concerned.And also to get an opportunity in the IPL as well. Last year I could not make a team, so obviously IPL is a very big platform. I’m hoping that somebody gives me an opportunity in their side.After 16 years of being at this level, how do you now prepare for a season as opposed to 10 years ago?Very similar kind of preparation to be honest. It’s just that I need to improve on my skillsets because the more compact you become in Ranji Trophy, the more tight you become, there are more chances of you getting consistent scores. The older you grow the more effort you have to put because earlier, your body was pretty natural, but the load of so many years now takes a toll on the body. I bowl as well, and I give more than 100 percent – obviously everyone gives – but I’m also someone who dives a lot on the field. So that’s why I’ve always kept my physical fitness the first priority and then obviously work on my skillsets and improve on the other part.You must have seen as well, legspin was not working for me in the middle because I had a niggle in my spinning finger. Then I came with the slinging offspin, which was very useful for me in T20s which happened in Ranchi [Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, 2017-18]. I was the leading wicket taker for Bengal. 14 [13 in eight matches] odd wickets at a very good strike rate.Is that something you’ve had to keep doing in the last few years, innovate?Yes. That is because I want to make sure I’m ready with all three departments. Since my spinning finger was injured, I could not bowl legspin. That’s why I started bowling slinging offspin because I wanted to contribute to the team and also show the concerned people in franchises that I can contribute in bowling as well. It’s not about the four-over slot, it’s about the one over which makes an impact in an IPL game, where I can contribute a tight over. And they look at me as an option. That’s why I started that, to get more regularly picked in the IPL and give more options to the captains and teams who are there at the auction table.So preparing for the IPL is now officially part of your routine?No. It depends on the format which I’m playing to be honest. Obviously IPL is a very big platform, but I’ve always prepared according to the format which I’m going to play. Because I play the situation. Somewhere down the line, I feel that that is one thing that has maybe became a downfall of my career. Maybe. That question pops up in my mind most of the time because I’ve always given emphasis on playing the situation rather than playing for something which is coming in the future, like the IPL.

“I could not get the reason why I was not getting picked. It was not communicated. So if that communication is not there, you feel what’s wrong with my game. At that point I had no one who guided me as such to be more calm and not to overthink.”MANOJ TIWARY

I see a lot of players, no matter what the situation demands, they try and go play very attacking shots. When a player plays attacking shots, or takes too many undue risks, there is always an opportunity for the opposition to get his wicket. I don’t try and do that. But still when I sit back and I don’t get picked for the IPL, when I see those players getting an opportunity, then I feel whether my preparation was correct in playing the situation, or should I have played more attackingly to make sure my strike rate goes higher up, irrespective of how much I’ve contributed to the team. So that is a question which pops in my mind when I miss out on an IPL contract.You missed out last year (in the IPL auction) and were outspoken about how upset you were. Why did you choose to come out and talk about it?It was quite simple. In [IPL] 2017 I had a fabulous season (with Rising Pune Supergiant). I got four FBB Stylish Player awards and our team reached the final as well. Unfortunately, we lost against Mumbai [Indians] in the final, where we could have won. Those awards come because you did really well, you made an impact on the game. After that the Pune team left the IPL [when their 2-year contract ended] and then I went to the auction again and Kings XI [Punjab] picked me.Unfortunately, when I sit back and think about why I didn’t get a fair run it was because I realised that Kings XI at that point of time picked so many openers in their side, where they had to make all the openers bat in the middle order to make the combination correct. KL [Rahul] was there, Mayank [Agarwal] was opening, Karun [Nair] was also opening, [Aaron] Finch was an opener, and Gayle obviously. So that, somewhere I feel, has hampered my position in the team.But, nevertheless, I got three opportunities to bat. First two I couldn’t make an impact. But I felt that third innings against Chennai [Super Kings] was an important innings. It was the second-highest score [35 off 30] for the Kings XI side after Karun Nair’s half-century. That was something which I thought was a good innings under pressure. And after that, I did not get an opportunity because the team did not qualify and last year nobody picked me.My name came first in the auction, and I was a little surprised to see no one has picked me. My base price was INR 50 lakhs [approx. US$ 7050], so I did not come as expensive if someone had taken me. That’s why I was a little disappointed, because people pretty quickly forget your contributions. And I’ve always been a very upfront guy, I’ve always believed in saying the truth. And that has been a downfall, when I sit back and think about the statements I’ve made earlier during my career.That’s how the emotions came out. I try to be calm most of the time – and I’ve been now, over a period of time. Earlier I was very aggressive by nature, on the field as well, when I started playing. Sometimes I obviously feel bad. I’m not against any of the young players getting picked for the IPL, it’s just that when I see in difficult situations all the youngsters who have been given a longer rope, in those crucial situations, they’re not able to hit those boundaries. Not able to keep their calm in such a way that they’re giving themselves a better chance to succeed. Whereas when I’m sitting at home watching those games, I feel that I could have scored those runs, I could have made that impact. So these are the things that bother me at times, but when time passes, it’s all well and good.Manoj Tiwary holds the pose after hitting a straight six•BCCILot of people believe you’re unfortunate not to have played more for India. You got injured at crucial points and so forth. Ever felt, “why does this only happen to me?”There are a couple of instances where things have not gone the way I would’ve loved them to. Like getting injured on my first tour in Bangladesh, in 2006-07. Before a game I got injured, my shoulder got dislocated. Then I had to wait one year to make a debut in Australia (2008 CB Series). I was waiting for the other opportunity in that tournament, where Rohit [Sharma] became Rohit if you remember. Then I had to wait three years to make a comeback. I was made to open in the West Indies when I had a fabulous IPL with Kolkata Knight Riders (in 2011). Went to West Indies, got opportunities, but at the opening slot, which is not my position. I’ve always batted at No. 4. In the fifth game of the series, I got opportunity at No. 4. I scored 24 [22] and got out. Got set and got out.Again, I was dropped for a lot of matches. Again I got picked in the West Indies home series where [Virender] Sehwag opted out. I made sure I batted No. 4. In the last game of the series, I got a hundred, and after that I was not part of the playing XI for the next 14 games for India. And that 14 games happened over a period of six months.I could not get the reason why I was not getting picked. It was not communicated. So if that communication is not there, you feel ‘What’s wrong with my game?’ At that point, I had no one who guided me as such to be more calm and not to overthink about these things, so that whenever you get an opportunity you will obviously have to make an impact on those games.But having said that, I look at life in a very positive way. From where I started and where I am right now, it’s all because of god’s grace. I’d never thought that I will reach this place where I’ll be financially secure, people will know my name and give me love and appreciation. I see a lot of people in our community who are differently-abled. I’ve got my body intact. I compare with them whenever I come across difficult situations and I obviously think I’ve been blessed to have this kind of life. So those phases just pass by.In the coming season, you’ll have a slightly different role, with a new captain coming in at Bengal?I’ve always wanted to be a team man, my only aim is to make sure the team wins the trophy. During my captaincy term, I have won a few trophies. Now I want to help [Abhimanyu] Easwaran. He’s our captain now. I want to assist him whenever it’s required, but I also want to give him that space so that he becomes a good captain by himself. Because captaincy I believe is all about your gut feeling. And what you are thinking in that point of time. That is what I’ve done in Vijay Hazare and Syed Mushtaq Ali. So my role as a senior is to just help the youngsters. I want to go up to them and tell them what needs to be done and how you can do it, rather than I keep sitting and watching them, keep replaying their mistakes. What I had gone through – I don’t want them to [go through and] lose out on time. You learn because of your experiences and when I see these players are getting misdirected or not working in a correct way, I want to make sure that these guys don’t lose out on time.

“I started bowling slinging offspin because I wanted to contribute to the team and also show the concerned people in franchises that I can contribute in bowling as well.”MANOJ TIWARY

Now that half the home season is done, what would your ideal season look like from here?I want to score more than 1000 runs this season. That’s my aim. I’m working towards it. Whatever is required to be done, whether it’s physical or planning my innings in a better way. I’ve chalked out a few areas where I need to work as far as my technique is concerned. Getting my technique a bit tighter for the Ranji games. Which is always the challenging part when you play shorter formats before the Ranji season, you want to play Ranji in the same flow. That’s not going to give you dividends. Because in days matches, the ball keeps swinging most of the time. You have to have a very good technique and temperament to score big runs and hundreds. And I’ve done it in the past. It’s just that this year will be more important because I want to give myself the best chance of scoring 1000 runs.Is that the goal now, that you have to go out on a high?I’m not going anywhere. I’m 34 and I plan to play another ten years. I know it’s not going to be easy. If Wasim [Jaffer] can play for so many years, if Zaheer Khan can roll his arm at 42 and still get wickets at T10, why can’t I? Michael Jordan, LeBron James, so many other athletes. Nobody will question LeBron James – he’s 34 I guess. He’s going to continue for another 3-4 years. So that’s how I want to break it down. Three years [at a time], or two. I’m not going to go (out) so easily.

The fastest fifties in IPL history, featuring some of the world’s mightiest hitters

ESPNcricinfo staff03-May-20251:12

Chawla: Very little margin for error against Shepherd

Yashasvi Jaiswal (13 balls) Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders, IPL 2023Yashasvi Jaiswal, 21, ripped up the IPL record books, slamming the league’s fastest half-century, off 13 balls. He made a two-paced pitch look like a belter to reignite their IPL campaign. Surprisingly, KKR captain Nitish Rana gave himself the new ball and the move backfired, with Jaiswal hitting 26 runs off the opening over. The other Rana – Harshit – wasn’t spared either as Jaiswal chopped the fast bowler behind point and flat-batted him down the ground for fours. Jaiswal also laid into Shardul Thakur and brought up his half-century inside three overs. Jaiswal threatened to convert it into a hundred, but the target wasn’t big enough. Eventually, Royals hunted down 150 with nine wickets and almost seven overs to spare.Romario Shepherd (14 balls) Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Chennai Super Kings, IPL 2025At the start of the 19th over, RCB were 159 for 5, having slumped alarmingly following quick fifties from openers Jacob Bethell and Virat Kohli. They had scored just 45 in their previous seven overs, for the loss of four wickets, but proceeded to score an astonishing 54 off their last two overs, setting a new IPL record for most runs across the 19th and 20th overs. Romario Shepherd faced all but one of the last 12 legal balls and hammered six sixes and two fours off Khaleel Ahmed and Matheesha Pathirana, en route to an unbeaten 53 off just 14 balls.BCCIPat Cummins (14 balls), Kolkata Knight Riders vs Mumbai Indians, IPL 2022Chasing 162, KKR slipped to 83 for 4 in 12 overs on a challenging Pune pitch. Pat Cummins, though, came in at No.6 and hoicked the second ball he faced for six. In the next over, Cummins took Jasprit Bumrah for a six and a four to raise KKR’s hopes. He then smashed Daniel Sams for 6,4,6,6, 2 (nb), 4,6 to zoom to 56 off 15 balls and seal victory for his side.BCCIKL Rahul (14 balls), Kings XI Punjab vs Delhi Daredevils, IPL 2018For nearly four seasons, the record for the fastest fifty in the IPL stood at 15 balls, before KL Rahul went berserk with a flurry of boundaries on his debut for Kings XI Punjab. A fortunate top-edged six off Trent Boult kicked things off, before he unveiled an array of exquisite cover drives and pulls off Mohammad Shami’s first over. At 27 off nine balls, the fastest fifty seemed some way away, until he smashed Amit Mishra’s undisciplined first over for 24 runs to eclipse the previous mark by a single ball. He soon got out trying to whip Boult through the legside, only to be caught at short third man off the leading edge. By then, though, he had taken his place at the very top of a list of the IPL’s elite hitters.BCCISunil Narine (15 balls), Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bangalore, IPL 2017After their destructive opener Chris Lynn injured his shoulder early in the 2017 season, Kolkata Knight Riders experimented with Sunil Narine as a pinch-hitting opener. He got them off to some quick starts and showed enough ability to retain his position as an opener when Lynn returned. Chasing 159 in Bengaluru, Lynn and Narine decided they wanted to try and finish the game inside 10 overs. Both went ballistic, but it was Narine who raced Lynn to a 50. He went after fellow Trinidadian Samuel Badree, hitting him for three sixes in a row, before smashing three fours in a row off S Aravind. When he lofted seamer S Aravind into the stands beyond long-on, Narine equalled the record for the fastest half-century in the IPL.Yusuf Pathan struck the fastest IPL fifty•BCCIYusuf Pathan (15 balls), Kolkata Knight Riders vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, IPL 2014Yusuf Pathan’s innings came in his side’s final league game, in which they had to chase 161 in 15.2 overs to get two shots at qualifying for the final. After being dropped twice early on in his innings, Yusuf made the most of it, mowing Dale Steyn for 26 runs in an over, ensuring Knight Riders closed out the chase in just 14.2 overs.Associated PressNicholas Pooran (15 balls), Lucknow Super Giants vs Royal Challengers Bangalore, IPL 2023Chasing a mammoth 213 against Royal Challengers, Pooran came in with Super Giants still needing 114 from 56 balls. From 10 off five deliveries at one stage, Pooran ended with a 19-ball 62; seven of those deliveries were dispatched for six, while four went for fours. He reached his half-century off just 15 deliveries, mercilessly going after every bowler. By the time he was dismissed, Super Giants needed just 24 off 18, and would end up edging a one-wicket win.Associated PressJake Fraser-McGurk (15 balls), Delhi Capitals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, IPL 2024Jake Fraser-McGurk made a mark early in his maiden IPL season, smashing a 15-ball fifty in just his third match, although in a losing cause. Chasing a mammoth 267 against SRH, Fraser-McGurk tried to do his bit at No. 3. After starting with two dot balls, he struck four fours in the next six balls before smashing three sixes against Washington Sundar. He handed the same treatment to Mayank Markande as well, to reach the half-century off 15 balls, and eventually finished on 65 off 18, an innings studded with seven sixes and five fours.AFP/Getty ImagesJake Fraser-McGurk (15 balls), Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians, IPL 2024Fraser-McGurk matched his feat seven days later, against MI, and this time batting first to haul his team to 257. Opening the batting in a day game, Fraser-McGurk started took on Mark Wood off the first ball of the game. After carting Wood around the park in a 19-run over, Fraser-McGurk also struck a six and four off Jasprit Bumrah in the second over, which went for 18. He brought up his fifty by dispatching Piyush Chawla over long-on for six, followed by a four, before tearing into Hardik Pandya in a 20-run over full of boundaries down the ground. He eventually fell for a stunning 84 off 27, holing out off Chawla, after setting things up nicely for the middle order.

Chelsea are involved in a three-way transfer race for a “sensational” forward who is now set to cost £75m this summer, according to a report.

Blues set for attacking reshuffle

With Noni Madueke looking increasingly likely to leave Stamford Bridge in the summer window, amid interest from Aston Villa and Newcastle United, some additional reinforcements may be needed in wide areas, and a new target has entered the frame.

The Blues have now submitted a £29m offer for Atletico Madrid winger Giuliano Simeone, who has been a “revelation” in La Liga this season, which means the Spanish are taking their time to assess the bid.

A dream target for Enzo Maresca is Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, with the west Londoners now beginning to lay the groundwork for a potential deal, having recently made fresh contact over a summer move.

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Maresca has set his sights on a number of targets from Spain, but there have also been suggestions a player from much closer to home could be on his way to Stamford Bridge.

According to a report from The Sun, Chelsea are now eyeing a move for AFC Bournemouth Antoine Semenyo, but they are not the only Premier League club in the race for the forward’s signature, with rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool also in the picture.

Semenyo has emerged as a key player for Bournemouth this season, and given that he has played a major role in the Cherries’ push for Europe, they are hesitant to green light a sale this summer, although they would be willing to listen to big offers.

Bournemouth have now set an asking price of £75m in a bid to ward off the interest from elsewhere, which they believe is fair given the vast sums of money that have been spent on players like Mykhailo Mudryk and Antony.

Chelsea fans will know all about "sensational" Semenyo

The Ghanaian is enjoying an impressive campaign, picking up nine goals and six assists in 33 matches in all competitions, and perhaps his finest moment came at Stamford Bridge, netting a wonder goal in the 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge in January.

Lauded as “sensational” by members of the media, the Bournemouth star has managed to kick on in his second full season in the Premier League, having already eclipsed the number of goal contributions he managed to record in the 2023-24 campaign.

That said, a £75m asking price seems far too high for a player who hasn’t long proven themselves at the top level, with the 25-year-old yet to make an appearance in a European competition.

If Bournemouth are willing to drop their asking price, there is every indication Semenyo could be a worthwhile signing, but a fee of £75m should be reserved for players in the world-class category, and the Ghana international is not there just yet,

Glasgow Rangers completed a dramatic comeback to beat Dundee 4-3 in the Scottish Premiership last time out, as they came from 3-1 down to win the match.

The Light Blues gave themselves a mountain to climb but managed to overcome it thanks to goals from Tom Lawrence, James Tavernier, and Cyriel Dessers in the second half.

Barry Ferguson should, however, be disappointed by the fact that his team were in such a difficult position to begin with, which is why he could make some changes to the team when the Gers return to action against Hibernian this afternoon.

Why Cyriel Dessers should be dropped

Despite scoring the winner in the 93rd minute, Dessers must be ruthlessly dropped from the starting line-up for the clash with Hibs today after his showing against Dundee.

The Nigeria international deserves credit for scoring the winner, but it is hard to ignore the rest of his performance, in which the striker missed a staggering five ‘big chances’ and scored once from 12 shots on goal – nine of which were on target.

He was incredibly wasteful with the chances that came his way, which was part of the reason why Rangers needed late goals to get anything out of the game.

Hamza Igamane has only missed five ‘big chances’, whilst scoring ten goals, in 27 Premiership matches this season, which suggests that Rangers would be better off with him as the focal point receiving service in the box instead of Dessers.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

With this in mind, Ferguson must ruthlessly drop the wasteful Nigerian centre-forward from the XI in order to bring Ianis Hagi into the team alongside Igamane.

Why Ianis Hagi should start against Hibernian

Rangers lined up with a 3-4-1-2 formation against Dundee and this change would allow them to play a 3-4-2-1, with Hagi and Mohamed Diomande in the number ten positions behind the Morocco international.

This would make Igamane the focal point of the team and mean that the side is built to create chances for him to score, to make the most of his lethal finishing – as opposed to consistently creating chances for Dessers to spurn.

Hagi coming in could help to create those opportunities for the Moroccan sensation because he has proven his creative quality in the Premiership already this season, under Philippe Clement and Ferguson.

Starts

16

Goals

3

Big chances created

5

Assists

5

Key passes per 90

2.5

Assists per 90

0.3

As you can see in the table above, the Gers number 30 has been incredibly creative for the Light Blues with 2.5 key passes per 90 and eight goal contributions in 16 starts.

This suggests that he has what it takes to provide Igamane with the service that he needs to put Hibernian to the sword later this afternoon.

Hagi, who former Romanian international Ilie Dumitrescu dubbed “sensational” earlier this season, is an attacking midfielder who can break forward into the box to make things happen, as a scorer and a creator, which is why he could perfectly suit a number ten role in a 3-4-2-1 system.

This would also allow Dessers to come off the bench as a goal threat in the second half if needed, rather than him having the entire 90 minutes to waste ‘big chances’ in front of goal – as he did against Dundee.

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It is now down to Ferguson to be brave and ruthlessly drop the former Cremonsese man from the team, despite his late winner, in an attempt to improve his side’s performance.

Celtic will look to tie up loose ends from a domestic standpoint ahead of next season before looking to strike while the iron is hot on the transfer market.

Celtic in hunt for domestic treble to reflect progress under Rodgers

Brendan Rodgers has led Celtic to within touching distance of another treble and will hope his side can push a fourth successive Scottish Premiership title over the line this weekend should permutations fall their way.

The Bhoys need to defeat Kilmarnock on Saturday to move within a point of the league crown, which could be handed to them the following day if Rangers lose out at Aberdeen.

Despite the promise of a fantastic end to the campaign, Rodgers has warned against Celtic complacency following a surprise 1-0 defeat for his side against St Johnstone last Sunday.

He stated: “It’s happened too many times. I’ve seen a trend now with us, and it will be interesting between now and the end of the season in terms of mentality.”

Losing three of his last seven Scottish Premiership encounters, the Irishman has possibly been given food for thought as the summer window approaches.

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Reports have suggested Celtic want to sign Augsburg midfielder Elvis Rexhbecaj to shore up their options in the engine room, which may go some way to indicating where he sees the most pressing need for reinforcements.

Delivering domestic trophies is deemed as the bread and butter in Scotland, but there is an ever-blooming expectation that the Hoops’ rude financial health should translate to regular impressive showings in Europe, with recent claims suggesting Rodgers has demanded a summer warchest to stay at Celtic.

Tapping into that theme, the manager could now be granted several new arrivals at Parkhead to help his cause, according to former Aberdeen chief executive Keith Wyness.

Wyness: Celtic boss Rodgers could line up five summer signings

Speaking to Football Insider, Wyness claimed Celtic could make up to five summer signings in what is set to be an “aggressive” window for all involved at Parkhead, citing their desire to grow in the Champions League as a critical factor.

He stated: “Brendan will definitely want to be aggressive this summer, every manager wants that. I’ve never had a manager work for me who isn’t two players short of what he wants. No matter what you give them, they always want at least two more.

Where are Celtic most likely to strengthen this summer?

Left-back – almost certain to happen

Greg Taylor likely to leave for free, cover needed for Kieran Tierney

Defensive midfield – possible but not at top of priority list

Callum McGregor is 32 in June and may need his minutes managed

Central midfield – if departures occur

Reo Hatate may be at the end of his cycle, so another body is likely

On the flanks – high likelihood

Daizen Maeda’s move to central striking role has created a void

Striker – almost certain to happen

Maeda and Adam Idah could use competition through the middle

“Brendan will, in this case, want another three, four, or even five – given the Champions League and the levels they want to be at. So it will be that usual battle.”

Although there is unlikely to be a sea change at Celtic this summer, a squad refresh may be needed to instill the hunger needed to claim a fifth Scottish Premiership title in a row alongside staking a claim in the Champions League.

Now, the onus remains on Parkhead recruitment chiefs to ensure the Bhoys are prepared by the time qualifiers come around, which won’t be an easy test so early into the new campaign.

Manchester City are set to sell a £150,000-a-week player this summer, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Man City players who could leave with De Bruyne this summer

The Citizens and Pep Guardiola are looking to finish the Premier League season in one of five Champions League qualification places, while also looking to win the FA Cup in what is Kevin de Bruyne’s final season at the Etihad.

The Belgian superstar recently announced his Man City exit when his contract expires at the end of the campaign.

De Bruyne will leave after 10 years at the Etihad, and more Sky Blues stars could be following the attacking midfielder out of the door. Ilkay Gundogan is also out of contract at the end of June and may depart, whereas Jack Grealish could also be sold, according to recent reports.

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Another player who has an uncertain future ahead of the 2025/26 season is Kyle Walker. The right-back joined AC Milan on loan in January, with the Serie A giants having the option to buy Walker for around £4.2m (€5m).

Named in Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad, Walker has recently undergone surgery on a fractured elbow, and a new update on his future has been shared.

Man City to sell Kyle Walker this summer no matter what – Romano

As per Romano on X in the last 48 hours, Walker will be sold by Man City this summer, even if AC Milan pass up on their option to buy. Man City have their eyes on a new full-back signing, with Walker’s eight-year stint on the books at the Etihad to be “over”.

“The story between Man City and Kyle Walker will be over in the summer, regardless of AC Milan’s future decision. Milan have buy option clause for Walker but decision will follow with new director. In any case, Walker will NOT stay at City as they’ll bring in new fullback.”

Signed from Tottenham in 2017, Walker will soon turn 35, so it appears to make sense to look to the future by selling the experienced defender.

Games

319

Goals

6

Assists

23

Minutes played

25,716

Trophies won

17

Guardiola hailed Walker following his move to Milan at the beginning of the year, calling him a “very important figure”.

“Kyle, thank you so much for the seven years you’ve been with us. The amount of trophies, the consistency and being a very important figure. I said it personally to him, I said it in front of the group, I wish all the best for him and his family. That is all.”

He’s still under contract at Man City on £150,000-a-week until 2026, and even if AC Milan don’t sign Walker, he won’t be seen at the Etihad for the new season.

Patrick Dorgu has become a key player at Manchester United since his January move from Lecce. The Dane, who cost the Red Devils £25m up front, has already played ten times for his new club this term, although he did miss three games due to suspension.

The 20-year-old is yet to score or assist for the first time in a United shirt. However, he did win a penalty, which Bruno Fernandes converted in the Europa League Round of 16 against Real Sociedad, showing just how deadly he can be.

With that being said, it has not all been smooth sailing for the wing-back. Aside from his red card, he was recently rotated out of the team for United’s 4-1 loss away to Newcastle United, with Harry Amass stepping into his shoes.

Amass’ full debut for United

For a football fan, there probably aren’t many better birthday presents than making your professional debut, and for Man United, nonetheless. Well, that was the case for Amass, who made a substitute appearance away to Leicester City in the Premier League on his 18th birthday.

Just weeks later, the youngster, who was born in London and played for Watford’s academy originally, made his first start in the top flight. The youngster was selected to start ahead of Dorgu at left wing-back.

Indeed, it was an impressive showing from Amass, as the stats on Sofascore reflect. The 18-year-old had 31 touches of the ball, completed 85% of his passes and won two duels. He certainly performed well.

That was certainly a sentiment that football statistician Statman Dave seemed to agree with. He was full of praise for Amass, explaining that he “didn’t look out of place in senior football” at St James’ Park last weekend.

There is certainly no worry about squad depth for the Red Devils at left-wing back, with the emergence of Amass and the signing of Dorgu. Incredibly, they are adding to that depth over the summer with another new signing.

United’s latest left wing-back signing

One of the continents where big European clubs tend to find hidden gem players is South America. Well, United may have pulled off a masterclass of their own in that sense, with the signing of youngster Diego Leon.

In the middle of January, it was confirmed by BBC Sport that the 18-year-old undertook a medical at United’s Carrington training ground. The reported fee is £6m, with the left-back set to join in the summer.

Now, United are not just signing a player without first-team experience who could one day break into the fold at Old Trafford. No, Leon has actually had years of experience at first-team level for Paraguayan side Cerro Porteno.

He has already played 26 times for the club over the past couple of years, and has even managed three goals in that time, from left-back. His 2092 minutes so far equate to 23 full 90-minute games, showing his importance to the Cerro Porteno side.

In fact, his underlying stats via Sofascore from his time in professional football so far are impressive. For example, Leon played nine key passes last term, and five this season, as well as making 45 tackles and interceptions in 2024, and 11 in 2025.

Leon key stats in 2024 & 2025

Stat

2024

2025

Minutes

1643

450

Key passes

9

5

Pass accuracy

71.5%

76.8%

Tackles and interceptions

45

11

Aerial duels won

21

11

Stats from Sofascore

One person who rates the youngster highly is football analyst Ben Mattinson. Discussing Leon in December 2024, just one month before his United medical, the analyst said he “runs like a steam train”, highlighting the physicality he will bring to Old Trafford.

Leon certainly seems like a player United fans can get excited about. The 18-year-old will bring first-team experience with him to the Premier League, and he clearly has final-third flair. He could be the perfect player for Amoirm to add to his wing-back options.

In The Pipeline

Football FanCast’s In the Pipeline series aims to uncover the very best youth players in world football.

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Both Amass and Dorgu may well need to watch out…

Related Upgrade on Rashford: Man Utd leading the race to sign £30m "monster"

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Manchester United are now ready to send a “big” offer to sign a teenager who is also being eyed by Chelsea, according to a new report.

Bruno calls to repay fan support after dismal season

It was another weekend to forget for the Red Devils, as they suffered their 14th defeat of the Premier League season against Newcastle United on Sunday afternoon. It was a game that had nothing on it for United and everything on it for the Magpies, and that showed, as Ruben Amorim made changes before a ball was kicked.

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Manchester United were battered by Newcastle United on Sunday evening.

ByMatt Dawson Apr 13, 2025

Despite the game being over with 20 minutes left to play, United supporters continued to sing from the famous sky-high St James’ away end, and manager and captain Bruno Fernandes feels it is time they reward the support that has been shown to them.

“There’s not much to assess; we lost the game. In the first half we did good, in the second half we couldn’t keep up the way we wanted to play.

“We know that it’s been a tough season; nothing to add to that. Our position in the table is not where this club belongs, but unfortunately we are not getting the results. We need to look forward, as we have a big game coming up; we need to clear our heads and go for it.

“We are in this position because we have not been consistent in the performances we put out. We lack being more fearless, being more brave. Today this was not the case because we ended up conceding goals by trying to be brave.

“It’s easy to criticise because this club has never suffered like this, so it’s normal. You have to be aware you play for United, and criticism will be there. Our fans have been there all season during bad moments; today they were there at the end trying to cheer us up. It’s time we give something back.”

Man Utd now "ready" to send "big" offer for £75m ace

As Fernandes focuses on what remains of this season, the Red Devils leadership are looking ahead to the transfer market already. According to Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport, relayed by Sport Witness, Man United are “ready” to make a “big investment” and sign Kenan Yildiz from Juventus.

The report states that while Juventus want to keep hold of Yildiz and the winger is happy in Turin, a sale may happen this summer if the Italian giants do not qualify for the Champions League. This opens the door for United, who are ready to make a move and sign the Turkey international but don’t state how much they are willing to spend.

However, the Red Devils are not alone in their pursuit of the exciting attacker, as Chelsea and Manchester City are also willing to make offers to secure a transfer.

Apps

76

Goals

12

Assists

6

Since joining Juventus’ academy in July 2023, Yildiz’s market value has continued to climb and climb. In July 2023, Yildiz was valued at one million euros; that rose to 10 million euros in January 2024 and now sits all the way at 45 million euros – Yildiz’s market value has risen by 4,500% over the year and a half he’s been at the club.

It’s even been reported that he could cost much more than that, with a figure of £75 million being mentioned in the Italian press.

Nottingham Forest have reportedly made an approach to sign a new £30m+ striker who has been compared to Man City star Omar Marmoush.

Nottingham Forest take one step closer to Champions League football

Nuno Espirito Santo’s side took another step closer to qualifying for the Champions League on Tuesday with a 1-0 win over Manchester United at the City Ground.

Former Red Devils winger Anthony Elanga scored the winning goal to take Forest to an incredible 57 points in the Premier League with eight games remaining.

Centre-back Murillo was also the hero in the final stage with a goal-line clearance to deny Harry Maguire. Talking after the win, Nuno said: “Over the moon. We are delighted, realising how the game went. We could not be more proud than we are, because it was very tough.

“The fans played their part. We were against the ropes. In this moment, we were against the ropes, and it was about heart and belief because the legs weren’t there anymore.”

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He’s a man in-demand…

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With European football on the cards in 2025/26 for Forest, attention is already turning to the transfer market and a new signing in attack is on the to-do list.

Evangelos Marinakis is ready to break the bank and spend big, with the likes of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres, Wolves star Matheus Cunha and Brentford forward Yoane Wissa three forwards linked with moves to Forest. Now, another name has emerged on the radar from the Bundesliga.

Nottingham Forest make contact to sign Mohamed Amoura

According to reports in France, relayed by Sport Witness, Nottingham Forest have been in contact over a move to sign Mohamed Amoura who is under contract at Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.

It isn’t said whether or not Forest have made an approach to Amoura’s camp or the club, however, Arsenal and Liverpool have also been in touch as all three eye a deal.

The 24-year-old is currently on loan at VfL Wolfsburg, who have the option to make a move permanent for around €14m plus €4m bonuses in the summer. They look likely to do that and could then sell the Algeria international for up to €40m (£33.3m) to make a quick profit.

Julian Alvarez

Atletico Madrid

Omar Marmoush

Man City

Kai Havertz

Arsenal

Charles De Ketelaere

Atalanta

Antoine Griezmann

Atletico Madrid

Amoura has been impressing in Germany for Wolfsburg, netting 10 goals and providing eight assists from 24 Bundesliga games in 2024/25, and by the looks of things, he could be seen as a real rival to Chris Wood at the City Ground.

Amoura, dubbed a player with “exceptional” pace, has been likened to City star Marmoush and other high-quality forwards, so a move to Forest could be one to keep an eye on.