Tag Futebol

Defends the rule after Kieron Pollard’s criticism of it

Deivarayan Muthu31-Aug-2023

Pete Russell, the CPL’s CEO, has defended the introduction of red cards to combat slow over-rates after Kieron Pollard had raised concerns over it.After Pollard’s Trinbago Knight Riders became the first team in the CPL to get a red card, he called the new penalty rule “absolutely ridiculous”.”I thought it did exactly what I wanted it to do (laughs). Unfortunately, Kieron didn’t quite see it that way, but look it is tough,” Russell said before the start of the Barbados leg of the CPL. “I’m sure the captain next to me [Rovman Powell, Barbados Royals] would agree. If you have three overs where you effectively have the penalty, it does make a difference. The reason we’ve done it is to just speed up the pace of play. I know IPL games go well over four hours, which is just too long.”Russell stressed that the penalty was brought in to prioritise fans and that the new rule has been a success so far.”I sat next to someone in the stands during that game on Sunday and he had to get a ferry back to Nevis and he had to leave the game early because of the amount of time it took to bowl those last few overs,” Russell said. “So, the last over was bowled in 12 minutes, which, again, is not acceptable. So, it has a knock-on effect.”We’re doing it for the fans – that’s really the reason for doing it. I certainly don’t mind it to change. If you actually look at the overall timings each game is 17 minutes quicker than it was last year. So, from that point of view, it’s been a success and it’s just unfortunate that Trinidad got caught up in it, but everyone has signed up for the rules. So, I’m happy with where we are at right now.”Pollard’s comments didn’t go down too well with the CPL, but Russell hoped that teams would be mindful of the penalty and speed up the play.”It’s not for me to comment on how they take their time,” Russell said. “The reality is that the timing is there for a reason, and it is international standard, so unfortunately, he [Pollard] overstepped it in terms of the timing and that was the end of it. I think from a CPL perspective, we’re obviously disappointed by the comments afterwards, but you know emotions run high.”But, for us, we think the rule is there for a reason and every other captain and team has adhered to it. And hopefully, that will be the case going forward because we certainly don’t want to see red cards being shown every game. That’s not the purpose of it. But, I think, the actual outcome of the red card – it did what it was supposed to do.”The red-card system of ejecting a player from the field for slow over-rate will also be in place for the WCPL, which will run from August 31 to September 10.The slow over-rate penalties If behind the required over rate at the start of the 18th over, one additional player must enter the fielding circle – for a total of five players inside the circle If behind the rate at the start of the 19th over, two additional fielders must enter the fielding circle – for a total of six inside the circle If behind the rate at the start of the final over, teams will lose a player from the field – selected by the captain – and have six inside the fielding circle There will also be an onus on batting teams to keep the game moving. After a first and final warning from the umpires, the batting team will be slapped with a five-run penalty for each instance of time wastingThe rule, using the 85-minutes-per-innings rule for T20 cricket, is that the 17th over of the innings must be completed by 72 minutes and 15 seconds, the 18th by 76 minutes and 30 seconds, and the 19th by 80 minutes and 45 seconds, before the last over ends within 85 minutes.”Over rates will be monitored by the third umpire and communicated to the captains via on-field umpires at the end of every over, as well as to the crowd and TV audience, with graphics showing how far they are behind (or ahead of) the over rate,” a CPL statement had said. “Dispensations will be given for injuries, DRS and time-wasting by the batting side where appropriate.”Recently, slow over-rate has been among the most chronic cricketing issues, which various boards and the ICC have tried to counter. In 2022, the ICC introduced an in-match penalty, where one fielder would be docked from outside the 30-yard circle for slow over-rates in T20Is. So, once a stipulated time was reached, for the rest of the innings, they would be allowed four, instead of five, fielders outside the circle.The CPL has returned to Barbados for the first time in four years. But Royals didn’t quite have a happy homecoming as they were skittled for 61 in their pursuit of 195 against Knight Riders on Wednesday.

Former Australia Test opener takes over from Trevor Bayliss after three years in role

ESPNcricinfo staff02-Jan-2025

Justin Langer, the former Australia men’s head coach, has been appointed as Trevor Bayliss’s replacement at London Spirit.Langer, who played 105 Tests for Australia between 1993 and 2007, coached the squad from 2018 until 2022, including during a memorable 2-2 drawn Ashes series in 2019. Australia won the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup under his guidance in 2021, before going on to win the Ashes 4-0 on home soil.He has a strong affinity with Lord’s, the home ground of London Spirit, having played for Middlesex as an overseas player between 1998 and 2000. He also became an Honorary Life Member of MCC in 2015.He has previously coached Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash and is currently head coach of Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League.”I’m thrilled to be appointed to this role with London Spirit, and I’m excited to experience The Hundred,” Langer said. “I’m looking forward to being a part of the tournament later this year, and working with such a talented group of players and coaches.”London Spirit General Manager, Fraser Stewart, added: “We are delighted to have secured the services of a highly respected and talented coach in Justin Langer. He excelled in the interview process, which took place before Christmas, and came out on top in what was a hugely competitive field.”Justin has a real passion for the aims and objectives that we have for the team, in seeing London Spirit competing at the right end of table, and for The Hundred title. He has an impressive CV in coaching and we are thrilled to have him on board.”Bayliss, who left last month after three years in the role, had replaced the late Shane Warne as Spirit’s head coach ahead of the 2022 season, when Eoin Morgan captained the squad to the play-offs. However, the team won only three games and lost 11 in the last two years since Morgan’s retirement.Bayliss’ side were particularly poor in 2024, losing seven of their eight matches with a scrappy three-wicket win over Welsh Fire the only exception. Their top picks at the draft, Shimron Hetmyer and Andre Russell, managed 216 runs between them, and Dan Lawrence was unable to get them out of a rut as captain.The Spirit’s struggles in the men’s Hundred were only emphasised by the success of their women’s team, who won the title for the first time under Heather Knight and Ashley Noffke. Noffke has since signed an extension for the 2025 edition, though has lost assistant Ali Maiden to Birmingham Phoenix.The appointment comes after the deadline for the Hundred’s second-round bids for private investment, with London Spirit expected to have attracted the highest offers. Interested bidders for a 49% stake are understood to include at least two IPL franchises in Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants, as well as the Manchester United co-owner Avram Glazer. Last month, MCC appointed the former energy executive, Robert Lawson, as their new chief executive and secretary.

The home team have admirably prioritised run-scoring and wicket-taking, making Pat Cummins go defensive

Ian Chappell30-Jul-2023Pat Cummins and Ben Stokes have different captaincy styles but they both possess the same admirable trait of seeking victory from the opening delivery.One of the big differences between the two is Stokes’ desire for his batters to attack, which has forced Cummins to employ some defensive strategies. It’s not desirable to give good players an easy single at the start of an innings, and you are trusting luck by trying to dismiss a sensible batter with a bouncer barrage. These were tactics Cummins employed at different times during the series, and while they were dubious ploys, the question applies: “Why did senior players allow him to continue using such repetitive tactics that weren’t working?”One aim of a good cricket team is to make the opposition change their tactics, whether that be a team strategy or an individual one. England achieved that aim, but because they made some poor selection choices, they still trail in the series.Related

Ben Stokes' positive aggression is England's new mantra for success

Switch Hit: Ashes to Splashes

Cummins feels heat as Australia struggle to keep pace with Bazball

The Ashes have highlighted England's selection failings again

Let's all bask in Mark Wood's climate of optimism

There were critics of Stokes’ decision to declare at Edgbaston and bat on at Old Trafford. These are smokescreens; his tactics were right and were both aligned with Stokes’ stated desire to always push for victory. Any captain who calculates a declaration according to a weather forecast – as was suggested of Stokes at Old Trafford – is asking for trouble.What has to be queried is England’s poor record at the selection table. This series they have mistakenly plumped for Jonny Bairstow, a recognised batter, ahead of the far superior wicketkeeper Ben Foakes. They opted to court Moeen Ali, an offspinner who bats but even at his peak didn’t relish the challenge of playing Australia. England also preferred a seam attack that lacked variety before belatedly unleashing a genuine speedster against Australia in the third Test. England then failed to give Mark Wood the advantage of using a hard new ball.These are all errors that are difficult to overcome, even when accompanied by an admirable desire to prioritise run-scoring and wicket-taking. This is especially the case when England’s captain and coach have a considerable say in selection.

If a batter hits a boundary, he is still facing the next ball, but a single frees him from the strike and lets him enjoy the safety of the non-striker’s end

Defensive fielders highlight a desire among modern captains to protect boundaries, thereby allowing easy singles. There are times when this is a questionable policy despite the dramatic improvement in modern bats. If a batter hits a boundary, he is still facing the next ball, but a single frees him from the strike and lets him enjoy the safety of the non-striker’s end. A captain who disperses the field with no close catching men and the bulk of the fielders on the boundary is greatly reducing the effectiveness of an attacking bowler. If a captain places nine men on the boundary, any self-respecting bowler is entitled to say: “You want that field then you bowl to it.”Captaincy is subjective; there is never universal agreement on tactics, especially when a game is lost. A captain must hold his nerve and expect good, positive suggestions from his senior fielders. I liken captaincy to a computer – others can provide an input, but it’s the captain who has to make the final decision.Both Cummins and Stokes have been the right choice as respective leaders. In Cummins’ case he’s a good captain and deserves to retain the position. However, he may be listening to too much advice, not all of it from people qualified for the job.Critics would do well to recall that under Cummins’ captaincy Australia hold both the World Test Championship title and the Ashes urn.Cummins displayed his worth in The Oval Test by learning from past mistakes. After sending England in on a pitch that had some life for the bowlers, Australia dismissed their opponents for a reasonable total despite some sloppy fielding.The Test is now poised to end in a one-innings shootout with the series finishing – as it began – in a sprint for victory. Whatever the respective merits of the two captains, the teams have provided ample entertainment and a series to be remembered.

Knighthead Capital are understood to have submitted winning bid of £82 million (100% valuation)

Nagraj Gollapudi31-Jan-2025NFL legend Tom Brady could soon be seen at Edgbaston after Knighthead Capital Management LLC, where the former New England Patriots and Tampa Bay quarterback has a business partnership, picked up a stake in Hundred franchise Birmingham Phoenix. ESPNcricinfo has learned that Knighthead made a winning bid of £82 million on Thursday, the opening day of the ECB’s sale of the eight Hundred franchises.The amount Knighthead bid was equivalent to 100% value of the franchise, which means they will pay close to £41 million for the 49% stake in Phoenix. None of the stakeholders, including the ECB, Warwickshire – Phoenix’s host county – and Knighthead have made any comment.Brady’s association with Knighthead could prove a shot in the arm for the Hundred if he can draw interest – both from fans and commercially – to cricket, a sport that has been attempting for several decades to widen its footprint. Brady already has a presence in Birmingham after he bought minority ownership in Birmingham City, a third-tier football club in England.Related

• Ends justify the means for ECB as Hundred's millions prepare to roll in

• Sun Group secures 100% stake in Northern Superchargers

• Investors face live auction for in-demand Hundred franchises

• Hundred investors express frustration at ECB's 'pure financial' motives

Knighthead are understood to have declared the winner through the sealed bid exercise which was put in place by ECB for franchises with only two investors on the shortlist. While global fund manager CVC Capital were meant to be originally on the shortlist to buy a stake in Phoenix, it could not be confirmed if they made a bid.Knighthead bought Birmingham City in 2023 and have proved popular with the club’s supporters despite their relegation to League One last season. Tom Wagner, Knighthead’s co-founder and the club’s chairman, has pledged to invest over £2 billion in a new “sports quarter” in the city and has bought a new 48-acre site for a new stadium.Tom Brady and Knighthead Capital are involved with Birmingham City FC•PA Photos/Getty Images

In the other auction conducted on Thursday, CVC, who own Gujarat Titans in the IPL, were among the three contenders to buy a 49% stake in Oval Invincibles, which was eventually bagged by Indian business behemoth Reliance Industries Ltd, owners of Mumbai Indians, for about £123 million (100% value). RIL made the highest bid in a live virtual auction, a process decided by the ECB to determine the winner where there were more than two investors on the shortlist. They defeated rival bids from CVC and the consortium of global technology giants comprising heads of Microsoft, Google, Adobe, Palo Alto Networks and Times Digital.RIL were also on the shortlist for Manchester Originals. It is understood that RIL had successful conversations with Surrey management, the host county for Invincibles, with both parties agreeing to synergise cricketing decisions. Another significant factor was Invincibles, who have won the men’s Hundred competition for last two seasons, being serial contenders for the title, something RIL has placed at the forefront of its investments in the T20 franchise circuit.The losing bids from CVC and the tech consortium could not yet be confirmed. As part of the virtual auction bidders gave themselves a code name. Though the amount has not been revealed, the base price was determined by ECB from the floor valuation bids submitted by the shortlisted investors in the second round of the sale process in December. During the live auction, each bid was separated by 15 minutes with incremental bids in steps of £3 million.The next step for the winners will involve them sealing the agreement withing eight weeks after the ECB’s auction process, which is scheduled to finish on February 10. This process will include deciding whether to pay the money upfront or in instalments spread across five years.

Not often in Pakistan cricket does someone pass up the chance to take credit for any successful outcome, regardless of how significant their part was. But Pakistan head coach Jason Gillespie kept such praise at arm’s length when talking about Pakistan’s bounce-back win over England in the second Test.Gillespie made clear that effectively all the decisions taken in the wake of Pakistan’s chastening innings defeat in the first Test had little to do with him. Moments after the result was official, the PCB announced a new selection committee, one that included former umpire Aleem Dar, as well as Aaqib Javed. It excluded Gillespie and captain Shan Masood from having any say in selection matters – Masood, too, last week said he preferred to pass on the credit “to everyone else” for their part in the win.”The PCB came out and made some changes after that Test match,” Gillespie said ahead of the third Test. “It was decided that a new selection panel would come in and they would be making decisions. I was not involved in the decision-making, I was just there. I’m now just the coach on match-day strategy. I just keep out of things now and just focus on the players and getting them ready for cricket.”It is a remarkably different brief from the one Gillespie was given when he was offered the role earlier this year. At the time, he told ESPNcricinfo he had some “really positive conversations” with the board and the chairman to make sure “we’re moving in the right direction short term, in the medium and long term”.Industrial fans have been used to dry the Pindi pitch•AFP/Getty Images

Pakistan’s late decision to pack the bowling attack with spinners and prepare a surface to assist them does appear to run in contrast to Gillespie’s goals and ambitions when he took over the Test side. In that interview with ESPNcricinfo, he had specifically cautioned against short-termism. “It’s very easy when you’re coming into jobs; you’ve got a two-year contract or a one-year contract,” he had said. “You make short-term decisions to look after your own back. But that doesn’t help anyone, because if everyone has that approach, nothing long-term gets done.”When asked about the composition of the team, Gillespie repeated the point. “It’s not for me to talk about now. I’m no longer a selector, so I’m probably not the person to ask.” Corralled into a role that is much narrower in focus than his initial job description suggested, he did indicate he understood how unusual his situation was. “I’m getting splinters in my a*** from sitting on the fence here,” he quipped.But with a potential series win against England on the line, the importance of the final Test was not lost on Gillespie. In his short time as coach, he has built up positive relationships with several players in the side, paying as much tribute to their qualities as human beings as to their cricketing talent.Related

• PCB says Gillespie will remain head coach for South Africa Tests

• Gillespie frustrated by lack of clear communication in role as Pakistan coach

• England stay on the front foot as Pakistan crank up the spin settings again

• Pakistan keep faith in unchanged XI for series decider against England

• Pakistan deploy fans, heaters in bid to produce Rawalpindi turner

“The last few years, Pakistan’s Test cricket hasn’t been where we’d like it to be. Any win is great, and any series win’s fantastic. Just coming into this environment, as a coach, I’m very protective of players. They’re the ones going out and representing their country. I suppose there’s a dad in me that comes out and I want to protect all the boys from all outside noise and whatever.”It is this ability to stay calm that Gillespie wanted to channel more meticulously in his players. At several key points during the second Test, with England appearing to swarm, Pakistan found a way to hunker down when the pressure was on. In the first ten overs, Pakistan fell to 19 for 2 as Babar Azam’s replacement Kamran Ghulam walked out for his Test debut. It could have gone awry very quickly, but Ghulam scored a hundred, and Pakistan put on 366.When England responded, they made light work of the spinners in the first 40 overs, and stood poised for a significant first-innings lead when they were placed at 211 for 2. But in the drying embers of Day 2, Sajid Khan slowed up the pace, found the rough, and triggered a collapse that helped Pakistan take a decisive 75-run lead.”There’s a lot of things in professional sport that you can’t control,” Gillespie said. “To be able to just park that and not focus on that is a skill within itself. Focusing on what we can control, the right things at the right times, and staying calm when things are all happening. The way England played, they looked to create things all the time and the way we want to go against them is to by staying calm and not getting flustered. I thought we did that really well in the last Test match. I was really proud of the boys.”You communicate with your players regularly, talking about their games and how we can help them improve as cricketers and people. I’m very fortunate, I’ve got a wonderful support staff who have developed some really good relationships with our players and players will gravitate towards certain coaches over others at times. But if you all work as a team, that’s the most important thing.”

With Rasmus Hojlund continuing to struggle, Manchester United are now reportedly positioning themselves to sign an impressive 17-goal striker who would be an instant upgrade.

Hojlund up for sale this summer

Almost two years on from his £72m move from Atalanta, Hojlund is yet to burst into life in a Manchester United shirt. Even after paying such a price, the Red Devils would have been aware that any young striker would need time. By this stage, however, those around Old Trafford had hoped to see more from the Dane, who has struggled more than ever under Ruben Amorim.

26 goals in 94 appearances is a poor record for any striker, but for a £72m striker it’s undeniably disastrous. Now, according to recent reports, Amorim is ready to sanction Hojlund’s sale and find an instant replacement this summer.

This comes just days after the Europa League final, in which the 22-year-old was once again kept quiet as Tottenham Hotspur battled to a 1-0 victory. What will far from help his cause is how much more structured Manchester United looked following the introduction of Joshua Zirkzee.

Whilst Hojlund failed in his hold-up play approach, Zirkzee dropped deeper and instantly handed the likes of Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes a connection between midfield and attack. As much as the Dutchman has also struggled in Manchester this season, he has shown glimpses of the traits that Manchester United signed him for last summer.

In desperate need of an upgrade to end their goalscoring woes, the pending arrival of Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers may not be the last time that Manchester United go in search of attacking talent this summer. As per recent reports, the Red Devils are also lining up another Premier League star.

Man Utd positioning themselves to sign Mateta

According to L’Equipe, Manchester United are now positioning themselves to sign Jean-Philippe Mateta from Crystal Palace this summer. The Frenchman is reportedly considering joining Amorim’s side in a bid to break into France’s World Cup squad next summer.

The forward has enjoyed another excellent season at Selhurst Park and will forever have his place in the club’s history after playing his part in their FA Cup win and their first-ever major trophy.

Man Utd ready move for one of the most sought after young talents in Italy

He’s a man in demand.

By
Tom Cunningham

May 22, 2025

The question will naturally be asked as to whether Mateta will be willing to ditch such success for a United side in turmoil, but Cunha’s reported move proves that those at Old Trafford still have the ability to attract top talents.

With 14 goals in the Premier League and 17 in all competitions, Mateta has found the back of the net more times than both Zirkzee and Hojlund combined. Described as “amazing” by Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner earlier this season, the Frenchman is someone that Manchester United should go all out for.

Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis and his son have received death threats from Galatasaray fans instructing them to sanction Victor Osimhen's move to the Turkish club.

• De Laurentiis family pressured by fans
• Osimhen's move to Galatasaray on hold
• Super Lig club negotiating with Napoli

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  De Laurentiis and his son Edoardo were handed death threats by a Galatasaray fan who seemed angry at Osimhen's transfer saga. The Napoli chief's son was sent vulgar messages on WhatsApp, commanding him not to oppose Osimhen's permanent move to the Super Lig side, and a screenshot was shared on X by Turkish journalist Samet Cayir.

Advertisement

• Getty Images Sport
  

  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  After spending four seasons at Napoli since his move from Lille in 2020, Osimhen joined Galatasaray last summer on loan. He shone bright and recorded 45 goal contributions in 41 games, which was made up of 37 goals and eight assists. His impressive form led to the Turkish club urging a permanent transfer. However, his parent club Napoli have laid out certain terms which are deemed unacceptable by Galatasaray. Napoli had requested €40 million plus €35m to be paid by 2026 and a percentage from any future resale, while the Super Lig side wanted to delay the second instalment to 2027 and remove the resale clause. With such rigorous negotiations, Osimhen's future is yet to be sorted out.

• DID YOU KNOW?

  Osimhen, who has 26 goals in 41 games for Nigeria, was the Super Lig's top scorer last season with 26 goals, five more than Basaksehir's Krzysztof Piatek.

• Getty Images Sport
  

  WHAT NEXT FOR OSIMHEN?

  Talks are continuing between Galatasaray and Napoli, with the Italian champions certain that the striker does not have a future at the club.

Ruben Amorim has cut a frustrated figure since replacing Erik ten Hag at Manchester United. The Portugal tactician’s candour has worked against him at times, fingers pointed toward negativity when the club needs the opposite.

But Amorim is at least clear in his vision and clear about where the Red Devils need to improve. He’s been clear about his opinion that beating Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final will not rectify the wrongs, and he’s been clear that changes are needed in the transfer market this summer.

United are down, but they aren’t out, retaining a deep-rooted appeal for players to make the move to Old Trafford. INEOS will certainly hope the club’s reputation holds sway as they look to close their first deal of the summer.

Man Utd on the verge of signing new forward

According to Fabrizio Romano, Man United will complete the signing of Matheus Cunha in the coming days, with the Wolverhampton Wanderers forward keen on wrapping up discussions and making the move to Manchester.

Cunha has a £62.5m release clause in his Wolves contract after renewing terms in January, and given that negotiations between United and the Old Gold are at an advanced stage, it seems to be the structure of the payment being the only hold-up.

What Matheus Cunha would bring to Old Trafford

Regarded as “one of the best players in the Premier League this season” by Statman Dave, Cunha may well have been the definitive factor in Wolves’ season, firing away each week to lift his team away from the relegation fodder.

He might find he’s swiftly required as a talisman at Old Trafford next season, for his efforts suggest he’s a far cry ahead of some of Amorim’s existing options.

Alejandro Garnacho is one of United’s brightest sparks, but there’s no question that he’s ebbed and flowed this year, with talks of a transfer to Chelsea or Atletico Madrid in January coming to nought.

Such clubs may return for the £65m-rated talent this summer.

Amorim and Garnacho didn’t get off to a good start, the manager dropping his 20-year-old star in December following application problems in training.

He has evident talent, but given that Cunha is expected to join, why not cash in and start afresh? To be sure, United need quite the renovation.

And when looking at the players’ respective seasons, it’s clear that Cunha is head and shoulders above the Man United man.

Cunha is far more clinical, not just outscoring Garnacho (and all the rest) but doing so with style, having missed only two big chances all season. Moreover, he’s more creative and more effective, and active in the duel.

Cunha’s defensive statistics surpass Garnacho’s too, and that’s not because of Wolves’ style of play. United are hemmed in near the bottom of the Premier League table with two games left to go, having averaged 53.2% of possession each game, as per FBref.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

The fact is, Amorim needs this kind of player in his mix. The Red Devils need a tenacious and combative forward who will work hard and shoot true, with a flair for the creative, too.

Hailed for his “incredible” performances at Molineux by his former manager Gary O’Neil, signing Cunha, regardless of United’s Europa League fate, would make a firm comment on the club’s ability to withstand adversity and still attract some of the finest players in the Premier League.

Maybe Garnacho and the £90k-per-week Wolves sensation could work in conjunction next year, but if the Argentina prospect needs to be sold to establish room and balance for this new recruit, so be it.

Not just Hojlund: Man Utd must axe one of Ten Hag's best signings in Bilbao

Manchester United fell to yet another defeat last night, losing 1-0 to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

By
Ethan Lamb

May 17, 2025

MatériaMais Notícias

da pinup bet： O centroavante Julio Furch chega ao Santos com a missão de reforçar o ataque da equipe, acrescentando ao elenco de Paulo Turra uma opção para jogos de maior exigência física, especialmente nas disputas aéreas.

RelacionadasSantosPrincipais notícias do Santos hoje: Furch no BID, João Paulo segue como dúvida e zagueiro da Costa Rica chegandoSantos27/07/2023SantosSantos avança pela compra de zagueiro que jogou a Copa do Mundo de 2022Santos27/07/2023Santos!IMPERADOR LIBERADO! Julio Furch aparece no BID e pode estrear pelo Santos contra o FluminenseSantos27/07/2023

da bet7： + Já atualizou sua camisa de 2023? Confira os novos uniformes do Peixe!

No entanto, se quiser atuar com frequência o argentino terá que desbancar o ‘dono’ da posição há três temporadas e artilheiro do time na atual temporada: Marcos Leonardo. Em tese, ambos ocupam a função de ‘camisa 9’. Porém, durante a apresentação na última quarta-feira (26), Furch comentou a possibilidade de atuar em dupla com o Menino da Vila.

– Posso jogar com outro companheiro (no ataque) com as características do Marcos (Leonardo). No México éramos praticamente dois ‘noves’. Marcos não é tanto de estar na área, mas de se mover um pouco mais. Pode ser uma boa complementação se pudermos jogar juntos – disse.

Recentemente, o técnico Paulo Turra modificou o sistema tático da equipe para um 4-4-2, formando uma dupla de ataque entre Marcos Leonardo e Stiven Mendoza, facilitando um possível encaixe do reforço santista no jogo coletivo do time. Com base nisso, tentamos desvendar se Marcos Leonardo e Julio Furch podem atuar juntos.

+ Olho no Brasileirão! Assine o Prime Video e acompanhe todos os jogos do seu time do coração!

Para início de conversa, o ‘Imperador’ considera Marcos Leonardo um atacante de movimentação, apesar de artilheiro do Peixe no ano com 14 gols marcados em 29 jogos. Ao mesmo tempo, ele se autodescreve com um jogador finalizador, que retém a bola e se aproxima para a execução de paredes.

No que depender de estatísticas, no entanto, a diferença entre os atletas não é grande. Dados da plataforma ‘Sofascore’ indicam que ambos os centroavantes são muito parecidos, tanto como criadores de jogadas como finalizando os ataques (veja mais abaixo). A diferença entre os dois está justamente na jogada aérea, característica citada por Furch como um ponto forte do seu jogo.

Vale destacar que estes números estão fora do contexto das partidas, ou seja, não têm relação alguma com o estilo de cada equipe, adversários enfrentados, nem mesmo indicam em quantos destes jogos os centroavantes atuaram sozinhos ou em dupla.

Um elemento de análise que poderia indicar se há diferença na movimentação dos atacantes seriam seus mapas de calor. No entanto, as figuras indicam que ambos os jogadores ocupam espaços semelhantes no campo. Na imagem abaixo, comparamos o posicionamento de Marcos Leonardo no Brasileirão deste ano (11 jogos) e de Julio Furch no Clausura da Liga MX, disputado no primeiro semestre deste ano (19 jogos).

Ainda que os dois tenham características distintas, os números indicam que ambos cumprem praticamente a mesma função em campo. Marcos Leonardo, apesar de se movimentar bastante, não tem como principal característica a capacidade de criação. Da mesma forma, Furch é tão bom finalizador quanto o jovem santista.

A decisão está nas mãos de Paulo Turra. Mas, se depender dos números, dificilmente o torcedor santista verá essa dupla tendo um bom encaixe em campo.

Arne Slot has confirmed that he will rotate his Liverpool team in the Premier League this season (finally) after last weekend’s title triumph.

A host of players have been reduced to bit-part roles under the new management, but the Dutch coach has said that “a few players will come into the team” across the closing weeks of the campaign.

Harvey Elliott, Jarell Quansah and Federico Chiesa will be among those looking for starting berths, but at left-back, it’s more of an uncertain situation.

While Andy Robertson remains Liverpool’s first-choice option to partner Virgil van Dijk on the left side of the backline, his influence has waned this season, mistakes creeping in and attacking contributions heading out.

Several Reds stars are going to be playing for their futures over the final four fixtures, and Kostas Tsimikas is sure to be one of them, having only started seven top-flight games all term. However, four of those have come across seven recent outings.

Liverpool are in the market for a new left-back this summer, and one of the experienced duo is sure to be sold to make room for a fresh face. Milos Kerkez is at the top of the list of contenders.

Liverpool's interest in Milos Kerkez

According to The Times, Liverpool have placed Kerkez right at the top of their shortlist as FSG warm to the idea of signing a new left-back. However, Bournemouth want £45m for the 21-year-old and this is steep.

Described as a “machine” by Sky Sports’ Izzy Christensen, the Cherries defender has all the attributes to become one of Europe’s elite players, and so it’s hardly surprising that his outfit are ready to drive a hard bargain.

Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes was the man who brought Kerkez over to England, signing the Hungarian talent from AZ Alkmaar for £15.5m in July 2023 while he was the transfer operator at the Vitality Stadium.

This season, Kerkez has been a revelation in Andoni Iraola’s system, frightening in attack and secure in defence. His completeness and athleticism have seen him emerge as one of the best young full-backs in Europe.

At £45m, Liverpool will be sure to consider their options, especially with Manchester City and Real Madrid also keen. Hughes has already lined up a potential alternative, and he’s an exciting one at that.

Liverpool chasing new left-back

Kerkez seems to be the top target for the Anfield side, but Liverpool aren’t limited in their scope. Indeed, journalist Bence Bocsak has recently reported that the Premier League champions have been extensively scouting an alternative option.

The man in question is Maxim De Cuyper, with the Club Brugge star impressing Liverpool recruiters with his performances in the Champions League this year. Arsenal are also interested.

De Cuyper, 24, is an active defender with a gas tank that refuses to be depleted. With Robertson hoping to stick around for a few more years, this could be the perfect profile to challenge the Scotland captain for a starting berth, especially since he’s got a rumoured price tag of €25m (£21m).

Why Liverpool should De Cuyper

Firstly, these reports suggest that De Cuyper could be available for less than half the price of Kerkez, and when digging into their respective skill sets, it does look as if the Belgium international has the quality to make just as much of a positive impact in Slot’s team – if not more.

A fiercely creative defender, De Cuyper ranks among the top 19% of full-backs across divisions similar to the Belgian Pro League for assists, the top 1% for passes attempted and shot-creating actions and the top 4% for progressive passes per 90, as per FBref.

FBref have also recorded that De Cuyper’s Champions League performances this season put him alongside Trent Alexander-Arnold from a statistical standpoint, only reinforcing the argument that he would be a perfect fit in Slot’s squad.

When assessing De Cuyper against Kerkez, there’s a case to be made that his playmaking and roundedness make him a better fit than Kerkez, who is a fast-rising defender but a mite expensive at £45m.

The Club Brugge man has hit 11 goal contributions across all competitions this year, notably scoring against Aston Villa in the Champions League. Arsenal want him too, remember, so he’s doing something right.

Of course, the Premier League is objectively of a higher technical calibre than the Belgian Pro League, but the defender’s success in Europe’s elite competition emphasises his chances of hitting the ground running under Slot’s wing in England.

Matches (starts)

34 (31)

34 (34)

Goals

3

2

Assists

5

5

Pass completion

83%

80%

Big chances created

22

7

Key passes*

2.5

1.0

Dribbles (%)*

0.5 (51%)

0.6 (57%)

Ball recoveries*

4.0

4.5

Tackles + interceptions*

2.3

2.6

Clearances*

2.0

2.8

Duels (%)*

3.6 (53%)

4.1 (53%)

It’s interesting that the Belgian should produce such scintillating playmaking numbers – furthering the argument that he’s Trent-like – with his underlying metrics across other areas also suggesting that he could be a more complete and effective left-back upgrade than Kerkez.

Harking back to Robertson, the 31-year-old has failed to register a single goal contribution in the Premier League this season, so it’s no wonder Slot and Hughes are determined to improve that area of the pitch. De Cuyper has the traits that suggest he is the perfect successor.

This isn’t to say that Kerkez is ineffective from a playmaking perspective; far from it, the Hungarian has showcased an exciting desire to advance attacking play on England’s south coast this term.

But De Cuyper has that special something that could charge Liverpool’s left lane to another level entirely. Is it any wonder that talent scout Jacek Kulig has described him as “one of the best left-backs currently playing outside the (Europe’s) top five leagues.”

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Liverpool need to find a way to stay ahead in creative metrics next season, especially if Alexander-Arnold leaves for pastures new in sunny Spain. Bringing in De Cuyper would be the perfect way to enforce this; he might even prove a better signing than Kerkez, and for a portion of the price.

Outscoring Isak: Liverpool scouting £25m "nuisance" who's just like Nunez

Liverpool are ready to go shopping for new forwards this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair May 3, 2025