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Not since David and Victoria Beckham began their relationship in the late 1990s had there been a football couple as high profile as Gerard Pique and Shakira when they got together in 2010. Defender Pique was a key cog in Pep Guardiola's all-conquering Barcelona side of the late noughties and early 2010s, while Shakira had been a global pop sensation since the release of hit single 'Hips Don't Lie' in 2005. This was the kind of story the tabloids thrive off – and even more so when it goes badly wrong.

After crossing paths on a music video shoot ahead of the 2010 World Cup, their relationship would span more than a decade. Despite both living their lives in the intense glare of the spotlight and the added scrutiny of being a celebrity couple, the pair seemed to be the picture of happiness – welcoming two sons in 2013 and 2015, regularly appearing together at events and making some very public displays of affection.

However, things would go seriously awry in the summer of 2022 as they suddenly split against the backdrop of cheating allegations levelled against the now-former footballer, in what became an increasingly messy separation.

From football's modern-day power couple to 'betrayal', diss tracks and social media point scoring, this is the story of the breakdown of Pique and Shakira's picture-book relationship…

AFPMusical meeting

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Pique and Shakira's respective careers were the reason for their paths crossing in 2010, as they met on the set of a music video shoot. Rather bizarrely, Shakira – who is Colombian – had been chosen to co-write and sing the official song of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, 'Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)'.

Pique was among a clutch of prominent players to feature in the music video, and he met Shakira on set in June 2010 shortly before the tournament began. The footballer happens to be 10 years the singer's junior to the day, with both born on February 2.

"I wasn't a soccer fan, so I didn't know who he was," Shakira told in a 2020 interview. "When I saw the video, I was like, 'Hmm, that one's kind of cute'. And then someone decided to introduce us." From there, their relationship blossomed.

AdvertisementShakira FacebookSecretive beginnings

The couple did not initially make their relationship public, but that changed in March 2011 when both Pique and Shakira posted a photo of themselves embracing on Twitter (now X) and Facebook, alongside the caption "I present to you my sun".

It was reported that they had gone public at the request of legendary former Barcelona boss Guardiola, as the manager was growing concerned about the media scrutiny that his player's secretive encounters with the singer was generating and even believed the defender's on-pitch form had been affected.

Pique had paparazzi camped outside his home and they would follow him to the club's training ground, with tabloids and gossip magazines offering up a price of €150,000 for photos of the pair together.

Twitter @3gerardpiqueBuilding a family

Pique and Shakira would be seen in public with each other increasingly often, and he even joined her on stage during the Barcelona leg of her 'The Sun Comes Out' world tour in May 2011. The couple shared a kiss to send the crowd into frenzy.

Shakira would attend the Ballon d'Or awards ceremony with Pique in early 2012, and later that year the couple announced that they were expecting their first child together, with Milan Pique born in January 2013. They then confirmed their latest pregnancy in August 2014 and the couple's second son would follow in January 2015 when Sasha was born, seven days after his brother's birthday.

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Getty/GOAL'Marriage scares the sh*t out of me'

In 2020, Shakira explained why she didn't want to marry Pique, despite them seemingly being very happy together. "To tell you the truth, marriage scares the sh*t out of me," she said in her interview with . "I don't want him to see me as the wife. I'd rather him see me as his girlfriend. His lover, his girlfriend. It's like a little forbidden fruit, you know?

"I wanna keep him on his toes. I want him to think that anything's possible depending on behaviour."

South Africa got onto the points table while New Zealand slumped to their second straight loss in Indore

Shashank Kishore06-Oct-2025

Tazmin Brits walked back to a rousing ovation in Indore•ICC/Getty Images

Tazmin Brits is having a year like no other. Her fifth hundred in 2025 – the most-ever by a woman in a calendar year – studded South Africa’s dominance as they got onto the points table with a crushing six-wicket win over New Zealand, who slumped to their second straight loss in Indore.Four nights after being bundled out for the second-lowest score in World Cups, South Africa showed authority and intent in chasing down 232 in 40.5 overs. This somewhat helped cover up for a massive net run rate dent from their embarrassing loss to England in Guwahati.That South Africa had only these many to chase was largely thanks to left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba, whose 4 for 40 triggered an alarming slide after Sophie Devine and Brook Halliday threatened a jailbreak. After the pair had added a quickfire 86 for the fourth-wicket, New Zealand were coasting at 187 for 3 in 38 overs when Mlaba made big dents.Related

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Halliday contributed 45 off 37 in a terrific exhibition of sweeps and reverse-sweeps, before falling to one hit too many when she top-edged a slog-sweep off Mlaba at the start of the 39th. During her stay, she briefly gave South Africa the shivers, like she had in last year’s T20 World Cup final in Dubai.South Africa hit back quickly after Halliday’s dismissal, with Mlaba next sending back Maddy Green to an ill-advised reverse sweep as she picked out backward point. Amid the collapse, Devine held out hope for New Zealand, like she’d done in hitting a valiant 112 against Australia in their opener.Nonkululeko Mlaba opened the floodgates with Brooke Halliday’s wicket•Getty ImagesDevine helped shift gears after Georgia Plimmer struggled to hit the ball off the square in a painstaking 31 off 68 balls. Devine was largely measured, taking 66 deliveries to bring up a half-century, her 17th in ODIs, before shifting gears, as she fed off Halliday’s form and enterprise.Halliday and Devine raised their half-century stand off just 41 deliveries, and New Zealand looked set for a lift-off. But Devine’s dismissal for 85, attempting to work a full delivery into the leg side, had a deflating effect. Ayabonga Khaka then cleaned up the lower order, as New Zealand lost 7 for 44 to be bowled out for 231, leaving 13 deliveries unused.All told, it was an innings of contrasting fortunes. New Zealand played themselves into a hole, consuming as many as 72 dots in the first 15 overs to leave the middle order with too much to do, after Suzie Bates fell for a second straight duck off the first ball of the match and Melie Kerr for 22. Then Devine and Halliday bailed them out, but in having a terrible back 10, New Zealand undid all the good work through the middle overs.To make a fist of the target, New Zealand needed early wickets, and they had one when Laura Wolvaardt, who plucked a stunner to end New Zealand’s innings, was out lbw playing around her front pad to Jess Kerr. But that was as much joy as they were to derive over the next two hours as Brits put on an exhibition, with Sune Luus for company.Tazmin Brits and Sune Luus left New Zealand without hope in the chase•Getty ImagesBrits’ was a high-tempo innings full of stunning shots, and it included a thrilling takedown of Melie Kerr early in the innings to offset any threat South Africa had. Having begun the innings steadily, Brits went into overdrive after the 10-over mark, at one point hitting five boundaries in nine deliveries, en route to a 44-ball half-century, her fastest in ODIs.Brits equally punished Eden Carson, the offspinner, muscling a six to bring up the 100 partnership off 111 deliveries. Brits’ use of her feet to negate any turn and bludgeon spinners repeatedly down the ground made for thrilling viewing. And while she was flying, Luus was fighting for survival.Unlike Brits, Luus struggled for timing, but the reward for all that tenacity for a fight was a half-century that she raised off 76 balls. Brits’ counter-attack gave her the rare luxury of finding her feet as the ball spun and jumped, merely underlining how ridiculously easy Brits had made batting look.Brits fell soon after getting to her century, bowled attempting to pull a skiddy length ball off Lea Tahuhu to leave South Africa briefly wobbly, as they lost two more wickets in an attempt to raze down the runs. But even through that, the result was a foregone conclusion.Luus raised the winning runs with a lofted hit over extra cover, finishing unbeaten on 81 to ensure South Africa ride a wave of confidence when they meet hosts and table-toppers India come Thursday in Vizag. New Zealand will hope for a change of luck when they travel to Guwahati to play Bangladesh the following day.

Tottenham Hotspur head coach Thomas Frank opted to go with what seemed like a rather defensive team selection when the line-up was revealed before kick-off against Arsenal.

The Lilywhites lined up with five defenders and two defensive midfielders, along with a front three of Mohammed Kudus, Wilson Odobert, and Richarlison against the Gunners.

Possession

57%

43%

Big chances

3

0

Shots

17

3

Shots on target

8

2

xG

1.93

0.07

Passes

448

330

As you can see in the table above, it was an approach from the Danish manager that did not pay off for Spurs, as they were heavily beaten by their local rivals on Sunday.

Tottenham only registered three efforts on goal in their loss to Arsenal, with one of them being the 45-yard lob from Richarlison, as they struggled badly in possession.

Struggling in possession has been a theme of the Premier League season for the Lilywhites, as they currently rank 17th in the division for xG created (11.1) across 12 matches, per FBref.

Some of that will be down to Frank’s system and tactics, as his selection against Arsenal seemed negative on paper, but there have also been some underperforming attacking players this season.

Ranking Tottenham's attackers this season

When looking at how the team’s attackers have performed in the 2025/26 campaign so far, it is hard to look past Mohammed Kudus and Richarlison as the two standout performers.

The Brazil international has delivered five goals and two assists in all competitions for the Lilywhites, whilst the £55m summer signing from West Ham has produced one goal and five assists.

On the other end of the scales, the £52m signing from RB Leipzig, Xavi Simons, has failed to deliver much in the way of quality, with no goals and two assists in 15 appearances in all competitions, per Transfermarkt.

The Dutch playmaker, who started the season on the left wing after Heung-min Son’s depature, was left out of the starting line-up against Arsenal, and he has to rank near the bottom of the list because of the fee paid versus the output given so far.

1

Mohammed Kudus

2

Richarlison

3

Brennan Johnson

4

Mathys Tel

5

Wilson Odobert

6

Randal Kolo Muani

7

Xavi Simons

8

Dominic Solanke

9

Dane Scarlett

As you can see in the table above, Dane Scarlett and Dominic Solanke are the only two players who rank lower than Xavi, and that is because they have played 59 minutes of football between them, which makes it difficult to place them any higher.

Unfortunately, Spurs are still looking for the true heir to Heung-min Son’s throne after the South Korea international moved on from North London in the summer, as their big-money addition from Leipzig is yet to pay off, and they are now keen on a star who could finally fill that vacancy.

Spurs make big-money bid to sign new winger

According to a report from Spain, Tottenham Hotspur are one of the clubs interested in doing a deal to sign Athletic Bilbao forward Nico Williams in the upcoming January transfer window.

The outlet claims that Spurs and Chelsea have both submitted bids worth around £62m in an attempt to land the Spain international to bolster their respective attacking units.

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It also reveals that both of those clubs are working on contract offers that would see Williams triple his current wages, which the report does not disclose, in order to convince him to leave his club.

However, it remains to be seen whether or not the Spanish whiz would be willing to move to England, or if the £62m offers are enough to tempt Athletic Bilbao into cashing in on their prized asset.

If Spurs can get a big-money deal for the left-sided attacker over the line, though, he could be Frank’s own version of Heung-min Son on the wing in the second half of the season.

Why Nico Williams would be Tottenham's new Heung-min Son

Williams, who was described as a “level-raiser” by Como scout Ben Mattinson, has all the attributes that the Lilywhites should be looking for in a replacement for the legendary South Korean star.

Like Son, the Spain international is a rapid forward who can use his speed to get in behind defences, as evidenced by Mattinson stating that he has an “electric burst of pace”, which is what served the former Spurs attacker so well for so long.

A goal scored by Williams against Real Oviedo in LaLiga earlier this month was an excellent demonstration of his speed, quality, and comfort on both feet, which Son was also renowned for during his time in North London.

The 23-year-old forward has registered two goals and two assists in nine matches in LaLiga this term, per Transfermarkt, after a haul of 11 goals and seven assists in 45 outings last season.

His most impressive campaign in an Athletic Bilbao shirt, though, came in the 2023/24 season when he delivered an eye-catching eight goals and 18 assists in 37 matches, per Transfermarkt.

These statistics show that the winger does have the potential to provide quality as both a scorer and a creator of goals from the flank, as Son did with his 173 goals and 101 assists for Spurs before his move to the MLS in the summer.

Non-penalty xG + xAG

0.38

0.54

Shot-creating actions

4.99

4.51

Progressive passes

3.25

4.09

Progressive carries

5.24

4.27

Successful take-ons

3.33

1.58

Progressive passes received

10.83

10.92

Key passes

1.91

1.86

As you can see in the table above, Williams is also similar to Son in a host of underlying statistics away from purely goals and assists, which suggests that he can provide a similar outlet on the left wing.

Like the ex-Spurs captain, the Spain international is an exceptional ball-carrier who can drive the team up the pitch to make things happen as a creative force, which they badly need at the moment, as evidenced by their dismal attacking display against Arsenal.

Having a counter-attacking weapon like Williams could allow Tottenham to defend deeper in matches, as Frank tried to do on Sunday, because they would have him to explode on the break when they win the ball back, instead of attacks stagnating and allowing the opposition to keep the pressure on.

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Therefore, the £62m-rated star could be a phenomenal addition to the squad with the quality that he could bring to the team on the left wing as their true heir to Heung-min Son.

Today is the day for Tottenham Hotspur.

Ange Postecoglou and his team can make their fans forget about their diabolically poor domestic season by continuing their impressive European run and winning the Europa League Final.

However, with Manchester United having a stellar track record on the continent this season as well, it’s anyone’s guess who’ll get their hand on the trophy come full-time.

To give his team a better chance of coming away victorious, Postecoglou will have to make a number of changes to the starting lineup that lost away to Aston Villa on Friday night, like dropping Mikey Moore.

Why Moore should be dropped

The first thing to say is that while we think Moore should be taken out of the team, that doesn’t mean we don’t think he’ll have a large part to play for the club in the coming seasons.

After all, his youth record of 21 goals and 15 assists in 34 appearances across the various levels is nothing short of spectacular, and according to respected analyst Ben Mattinson, he’s a “future superstar” in the making.

However, he is still just 17 years old, and while he has looked reasonably impressive for the senior team here and there, he’s not had a significant enough impact – three goal involvements in 21 games – to warrant a start in the club’s biggest game since the Champions League Final.

Minutes

87′

Expected Goals

0.00

Goals

0

Expected Assists

0.00

Assists

0

Accurate passes

7/9 (78%)

Key passes

0

Crosses (accurate)

1 (0)

Shots on target

0

Ground duels (won)

9 (4)

Possession lost

7

Dribbled past

2

Dribble attempts (successful)

3 (0)

Moreover, his inexperience showed somewhat at Villa Park, as he struggled to assert himself on the game and eventually came off the pitch in the 87th minute, having made just seven passes and failing in 100% of his dribbles.

Moreover, with Brennan Johnson still the team’s top scorer in all competitions this term, with 17 in 49 games, it should go without saying that he should be starting on the right ahead of everyone else.

The other Spurs star who should be dropped

Given the underwhelming nature of the game, there are a few other players you could bring up who should probably be taken out of the team for the final, like Archie Gray, Kevin Danso, Ben Davies and more.

Yet, in this instance, we are talking about another starter in the attack: Mathys Tel.

The young Frenchman might well be one of the more exciting players in the Lilywhites’ squad, with some at the club reportedly labelling him a “generational talent” before he arrived in February, but against the Villans, he didn’t do enough to convince us he should keep his place in the team for tonight’s monumental clash.

Minutes

96′

Expected Goals

0.00

Goals

0

Expected Assists

0.15

Assists

0

Accurate passes

12/14 (86%)

Key passes

1

Crosses (accurate)

1 (0)

Shots on target

0

Big chances created

1

Dribble attempts (successful)

5 (1)

Duels (won)

14 (4)

Possession lost

11

Fouls

4

For example, despite leading the line for 96 minutes, he failed to take a single shot on target, registered just 0.15 expected assists, failed in 80% of his attempted dribbles, completed only 12 passes, failed in 100% of his crosses, missed one big chance, lost ten of 14 duels, lost the ball 11 times and committed four fouls.

Add to that the fact that he’s scored just three goals and provided one assist in 19 appearances for the club this season, and it’s almost impossible to make a convincing argument about why he should lead the line against the Red Devils.

Moreover, Dominic Solanke, the man who should come in to replace him, has been far more effective in front of goal this season, scoring 15 goals and providing eight assists in 43 appearances.

Ultimately, Tel could still be a useful asset for Spurs in tonight’s final, but to get the most out of him, Postecoglou would be better off starting him on the bench and then bringing him on later into the match as things get stretched so that he can exploit the opening spaces with his pace.

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Callum McGregor and Alistair Johnston ended the season on a disappointing note when they missed their spot kicks for Celtic in the final of the SFA Cup.

Aberdeen took them to penalties at Hampden Park, after a 1-1 draw in regulation time, and the two Hoops stars stepped up to miss from he spot, securing the trophy for the Dons.

This meant that the Bhoys failed to win the domestic treble for the second time in as many seasons since Brendan Rodgers returned to Parkhead, as they also won two of the three available trophies last term.

They did still win the Scottish Premiership and the League Cup, though, in what was a successful campaign for the club irrespective of what happened in the SFA Cup final.

It was also still a successful season for Johnston at right-back despite his penalty miss at the national stadium, as he provided impressive performances down the right flank for the Premiership champions throughout the year.

How Alistair Johnston had a successful season for Celtic

The Canada international combined solid defensive work with a desire to get forward to make an impact at the top end of the pitch to offer a fantastic all-round presence at right-back, both in the Champions League and the Premiership.

Johnston started all ten of the club’s matches in Europe, which illustrates how much Rodgers relied on him, and he ranked first out of all players in the squad with more than one start for tackles (2.8) and interceptions (1.4) per game.

This shows that the 26-year-old star was hugely important to Celtic from a defensive perspective, as he consistently made vital interventions to cut out opposition attacks with tackles and interceptions.

It was not only his form in Europe that caught the eye during the season for the Hoops, though, as the defender also delivered exciting displays from right-back in the Premiership.

Appearances

32

Goals

4

Big chances created

15

Key passes per game

1.5

Assists

10

Tackles + interceptions per game

2.0

As you can see in the table above, Johnston provided a decent goal threat from right-back, whilst also being an incredibly creative figure at the top end of the pitch, with almost one ‘big chance’ created every other game on average.

These statistics, along with his defensive numbers in the Champions League, show how the Canadian star has enjoyed a successful season for Celtic, despite his miss in the final against Aberdeen.

In March, The Athletic reported that Fulham and Ipswich were both plotting summer moves for the defender, which suggests that the Hoops may need to fight to keep hold of him.

This shows that his performances for Celtic have also attracted interest from elsewhere, and a fresh report has linked the club with a move for a player who plays in a similar position.

Celtic eyeing deal for Premiership defender

According to EFL Analysis, Celtic are one of the clubs interested in a deal to sign versatile Dundee star Josh Mulligan in the upcoming summer transfer window.

The report claims that the Hoops are set to battle it out with English Championship side West Bromwich Albion to land the Scotland U21 international.

It reveals that the Baggies are already holding talks with the Scottish defender, whilst Celtic’s interest remains just that as it stands, ahead of his expected exit from Dundee.

Mulligan’s contract at Dens Park expires at the end of this month, and he is set to be available on a ‘free’ transfer, although Dundee would be due compensation due to his age.

Whilst West Brom appear to be ahead of the Hoops in the race, due to them already being in talks with the 22-year-old star, Celtic are eyeing up the Premiership star and he could be Johnston 2.0 for Rodgers next season.

Why Celtic should sign Josh Mulligan

At the age of 22, Mulligan could be a terrific addition to the Hoops squad as a long-term signing who could develop and improve with games over the seasons to come.

This means that he could also come in as a back-up to Johnston initially, if the Canada international does not move to the Premier League, because the youngster is at an age where he can bide his time if needed.

However, Mulligan is also a proven performer in the Premiership who could hit the ground running as a replacement for the Celtic star if that is the situation that he would walk into this summer.

The versatile star, who can play as a central or attacking midfielder, has caught the eye as a right-sided wing-back for Dundee in the top-flight.

As you can see in the clip above, his emergence in that position earned him plaudits from multiple pundits due to his attacking drive down the right flank.

Whilst Celtic do not play with wing-backs on paper, their dominance in matches means that Johnston is more or less a wing-back in how high he gets up the pitch and how many touches he takes.

Appearances

34

32

Touches per game

42.6

89.8

Big chances created

9

15

Assists

5

10

Tackles + interceptions per game

2.5

2.0

Duels won per game

5.2

3.6

As you can see in the table above, Mulligan has the potential to be Johnston 2.0 for the Hoops because he created nine ‘big chances’ and posted similar defensive numbers, despite taking less than half as many touches per game.

The 22-year-old star has shown a willingness to drive forward to make things happen at the top end of the pitch from a wing-back position, and was once compared to Real Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur icon Gareth Bale, who started out his career as a full-back.

Former teammate Simon Ferry said: “He’s a Rolls-Royce like Gareth Bale – powerful, strong, direct. He’s a machine at that age. He wants to learn, listens to you.”

This shows that Celtic could have another ‘machine’ racing down the right flank to deliver assists next season even if they do cash in on Johnston, because Mulligan has the potential to be a fantastic signing for the club.

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Therefore, the Hoops should consider opening talks to land the out-of-contract defender in the summer transfer window to beat West Brom to his signature.

Arsenal are now in “advanced” talks to sign a marquee player ahead of interest from Premier League champions Liverpool, with new sporting director Andrea Berta reportedly making an eventful start to life as Edu’s successor.

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Mikel Arteta guided them to FA Cup glory during the COVID pandemic in 2020, clinching a piece of silverware amid his first campaign in charge of the club, but there has been precious little in the way of honours since then.

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

You can make a serious argument that this is largely down to Man City’s invincibility over the last few years, barring this campaign, with Arsenal racking up a brilliant 89 points last term only for Pep Guardiola’s side to eventually take all the plaudits.

As per the above table, Arsenal have invested significantly in the squad, and some debate is even beginning to arise over whether Arteta is the right manager to end the club’s two-decade-long-plus wait for a league title.

They’ve undoubtedly evolved into an elite-level side under Arteta’s tenure, as their run to the Champions League semi-finals highlights, so reports of a potential exit for the 43-year-old have been few and far between, with the consensus being that Arsenal are continuing to show faith in him.

“It’s a great achievement, in 2025, to not win a trophy for five years and still be the manager at a top club that isn’t under pressure – from us, from anybody in the football community or even anyone in the Arsenal fanbase,” said Sky pundit Gary Neville.

“That’s an incredible achievement because we thought those days were gone whereby you can have this type of patience being afforded to you. I think it’s a good thing: normally with five years without a trophy you’d ordinarily see a manager be under pressure.

“That’s significant in that you think there is progression.”

Arsenal in advanced talks to sign Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres

However, this may not last for long if Arsenal don’t end their trophy drought soon, and Berta has every intention of backing Arteta with key signings that will reinforce the squad and hand Arteta the best possible chance of achieving glory. Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres is a top target, according to widespread reports.

The “massively underrated” Sweden international appears destined to leave Sporting after a haul of 50 goals in all competitions, and some media sources suggest Arsenal have already offered him personal terms worth £135,000-per-week to join them (A Bola).

Now, CaughtOffside shares some more intriguing news about the saga. The outlet reports that Arsenal’s talks to sign Gyokeres are at an “advanced” stage, and they are currently leading the chase for his signature ahead of both Liverpool and Man United.

Arteta’s side are apparently closing in on a five-year deal for the striker, but CO claim it is actually worth around £9 million-per-year, rather than the previously mooted £7 million.

While Liverpool and United are still contending, it is reiterated that Arsenal are in pole position, with the ex-Coventry City star, who has an £84 million release clause in his contract, seemingly nearing a return to England.

Arsenal fans have to be feeling pretty down right now.

After coming close to silverware in 22/23 and closer still last year, they have once again seen their team fail to win the Premier League and, fresher than that, fail to win their first Champions League semi-final in over a decade.

Mikel Arteta must be feeling like he’s been cursed right about now, and while that’s probably taking things too far, there is one disappointing trend that has followed the club for almost twenty years now.

Since William Gallas received the armband in 2007, more often than not, the Gunners’ captains have either seen their form fade, suffered injury after injury, or most dramatically of all, simply fallen out with the fans – and the current skipper is no different.

Arsenal's cursed armband

While we could go through every captain the club have had in the last twenty or so years, there are two more recent players who perhaps demonstrate what we are talking about better than any others: Granit Xhaka and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

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Despite being a known firebrand and someone capable of doing ridiculous things on a football pitch, the former was elected skipper by his teammates in September 2019 under manager Unai Emery.

Now, in his defence, it wasn’t a particularly nice time for the club; the team had just missed out on the top four, had been humiliated in the Europa League Final by Chelsea, and started the new campaign poorly, so it felt like something was going to give at some point, and it did.

It was a home game against Crystal Palace in November of the same year, and with the score level at 2-2, the Swiss international was taken off in the 61st minute, but instead of being clapped off, he was jeered, which saw him respond in kind by throwing the shirt and armband to the floor.

It looked like his Arsenal career was over, but somehow, Arteta convinced him to stay, and he became a firm fan favourite again, no longer with the weight of the captaincy on his shoulders.

Unfortunately, things didn’t end so well for Aubameyang, as within a year of taking the role from the Swiss midfielder, he saw his previously incredible goalscoring ability all but disappear.

Moreover, he wasn’t just making the wrong choices on the pitch either, as he was increasingly pushing the limits off of it, with the manager famously leaving him out of the North London Derby in March 2021.

The situation became so negative that the club were forced to let him leave for free in January 2022, which would have been inconceivable when he first received the armband.

The bad news is that the curse once again seems alive and well.

Arsenal's curse continues

Indeed, while we all hoped it wasn’t the case, it’s become increasingly difficult to deny the sad reality that, as things stand, Martin Odegaard appears to be the next victim of Arsenal’s captaincy curse.

The Norwegian maestro was first handed the massive responsibility in the summer of 2022, at just 23 years old, and for a good couple of years, it looked as if he was going to be the first skipper in a generation to lead the club to glory.

However, he picked up the first significant injury of his Gunners career early on this season, and while everyone expected him to take a while to get back to his best upon his return, it’s been six months now, and he looks a shadow of the man who won successive Player of the Year awards.

Appearances

45

48

42

Minutes

3404′

4053′

3252′

Goals

15

11

5

Assists

7

11

11

Goal Involvements per Match

0.48

0.45

0.38

Minutes per Goal Involvement

154.72′

184.22

203.25′

Moreover, the £30m signing’s drop in output, while undeniable, is only part of the problem.

For example, instead of picking up the ball from deep and getting it forward with a brilliant pass or mercurial piece of skill, every action now looks laboured, as if he’s running with weights in his boots.

Moreover, his ability to hold onto the ball in dangerous areas has seemingly fallen off a cliff, with every fan now all too familiar with the picture of him receiving the ball on the edge of the box and then simply losing it, either through a misjudged pass or poor control.

The consistently lacklustre performances are starting to turn fans as well, with content creator Rimedi arguing he’s “not at the level” to lead this team and the Athletic’s Aaron Catterson-Reid exclaiming that he was “anonymous” during the second half of their game in Paris a few days ago.

Ultimately, next season will let us know whether Odegaard really is just the next victim of the club’s wretched curse or just out of form – although it’s not looking good.

Arsenal line up move for PSG star who'd be a big upgrade on Martinelli

The incredibly entertaining international is just what Arsenal need this summer.

ByJack Salveson Holmes May 8, 2025

Wolverhampton Wanderers have now tabled a contract offer to sign an “excellent” midfielder, and they are looking to beat Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur to his signature, according to a report.

Wolves stepping up summer transfer plans

Wolves are on a remarkable run of form under the helm of Vitor Pereira, winning their last six Premier League games on the spin to move up to 13th in the table, and the manager will be hoping his side can carry the momentum into the 2025-26 campaign.

Before then, however, Pereira will have the opportunity to put his own stamp on the squad, and targets have been picked out in a number of areas in recent days, with Leicester City’s Jamie Vardy recently being named as an option at striker.

Internal talks have also been held over a move for West Bromwich Albion’s Grady Diangana, who is set to be available on a free transfer this summer, although it may be difficult to convince the winger to move to the Baggies’ bitter rivals.

Vitor Pereira wants Wolves to sign 22 y/o ace who he's worked with before

He could be a strong addition to Wanderers’ midfield.

1 ByHenry Jackson Apr 25, 2025

With speculation building over Matheus Cunha’s future, it may be particularly important for Pereira to strengthen in forward areas this summer, but the Old Gold are also keen on strengthening their options in the middle of the park.

That is according to a report from Spain (via Sport Witness), which states Wolves have now offered to triple Real Betis midfielder Johnny Cardoso’s salary, in a bid to lure the USA international to Molineux this summer.

Tottenham have a deal which allows them to buy Cardoso for €25m (£21m) which he agreed to last summer, but there is now a growing possibility that he leaves for a higher amount, with a €30m – €35m (£25m – £30m) move on the cards.

Interest is growing from within the Premier League, and the Old Gold’s willingness to triple his salary underlines just how highly the 23-year-old is regarded at Molineux.

"Excellent" Cardoso impressing in La Liga

It is little wonder that clubs are now queuing up to sign the Betis star, given that he has put in some impressive performances over the past year, most notably flourishing in a defensive role, although he also ranks relatively highly for non-penalty goals, when compared to other midfielders.

Statistic

Average per 90

Non-penalty goals

0.12 (72nd percentile)

Successful take-ons

0.96 (80th percentile)

Interceptions

2.12 (98th percentile)

Clearances

2.47 (91st percentile)

As such, the American is clearly a well-rounded midfielder, and he has also been praised for his ability to pick out his teammates by scout/writer Ben Mattinson.

It may be difficult for Wolves to compete for Cardoso’s signature, given that Tottenham have the option to sign him, but there is every indication he could be a success at Molineux if they are able to win the race.

Arsenal have a huge summer ahead of them if they are to finally make the step-up and end their generational wait for a Premier League title triumph.

Mikel Arteta has led the Gunners to a second-placed finish in each of the last two seasons, looking increasingly likely to finish in the same position once again this time around.

Additions are needed in the summer if they are to push for a title battle, with squad depth needed in key areas of the pitch to prevent a repeat of the situation that has occurred this campaign.

Injuries have plagued the squad, leading to various players having to operate in unfamiliar roles, restricting the progress the Gunners have made under the Spaniard’s guidance.

However, with the summer rapidly approaching, new sporting director Andrea Berta has wasted no time in identifying targets to improve the squad and help mount their title ambitions.

The latest on Arsenal’s pursuit of new attackers this summer

In recent days, Arsenal have taken the lead in the race for Athletic Club’s Spanish forward Nico Williams, with Barcelona pulling out of the running to land the 22-year-old.

The youngster has been on the club’s radar over the last couple of years, but it appears Berta looks set to reignite interest in his signature over the coming months.

A previous report has claimed that the Gunners are willing to trigger his £50m release clause within his current contract in an attempt to bolster Arteta’s forward line ahead of 2025/26.

However, other names have already been thrown into the mix, with Real Betis winger Jesus Rodriguez the latest name touted with a summer deal to the Emirates.

According to a report from CaughtOffside, Arteta’s men are leading the race for the 19-year-old’s signature but also face stiff competition from Liverpool and Chelsea for the star, who has a £42m release clause.

Why Rodriguez would be better than Williams for Arsenal

Williams will undoubtedly be top of many fans shopping list ahead of the summer transfer window, with his figures at the top level of LaLiga nothing short of sensational.

He would undoubtedly provide the options which the manager has been hunting for in recent months, offering a solution to their ongoing injury issues.

However, the same could be said for fellow target Rodriguez, with the compatriot potentially a better and cheaper alternative than the Athletic Club sensation.

It’s been the 19-year-old’s breakthrough year as a professional, playing a key role in the club’s hunt to claim Europa Conference League glory come the end of the season.

When comparing their respective stats from the current season, Rodriguez has managed to outperform fellow target Williams in numerous key areas – highlighting how much of an impressive addition he would be in North London.

Games played

15

27

Goals & assists

1

10

Shot-on-target accuracy

37%

36%

Pass accuracy

72%

70%

Tackles won

1.6

1.2

Take-on success

97%

36%

Carries into final third

3.4

2.6

Fouls won

3.6

1.6

The winger, who’s been labelled “outstanding” by analyst Ben Mattinson, may have registered fewer combined goals and assists, but has managed to notch a higher shot-on-target accuracy rate – showcasing his clinical nature in attacking areas.

He’s also managed to complete more take-ons this season, whilst also registering more carries into the final third per 90, highlighting the threat he carries with the ball at his feet.

Rodriguez is a threat at both ends of the pitch, winning more tackles per 90, having the defensive quality and work ethic to regain possession should the Gunners find themselves under the cosh.

Either winger would massively bolster the attacking department in North London, certainly providing the reinforcements Arteta has craved over the last couple of months.

But given the age difference and contrast in quality, the hierarchy must certainly push for Rodriguez’s signature, desperately needing to pursue a move to avoid missing out on him to an English rival.

Imagine him & Gyokeres: Arsenal leading the race to sign £50m sensation

Arsenal could be about to massively improve their forward line ahead of 2025/26.

ByEthan Lamb Apr 17, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur have now joined the race for an “amazing” Premier League midfielder, but there could be fierce competition for his signature from some of Europe’s top clubs, according to a report.

Spurs' summer transfer plans

The 1-0 victory at Eintracht Frankfurt last week has provided Totttenham with a real chance to make a success out of this season, with Ange Postecoglou’s side now just a two-legged tie against Bodo/Glimt away from reaching the Europa League final.

However, having fallen way below expectations in the Premier League, Spurs have set out to make serious improvements to their squad this summer, with targets being identified in multiple positions, including attacking midfield.

Como maestro Nico Paz has recently been named as a potential target for the Lilywhites, having enjoyed an impressive debut campaign in the Serie A, while they have also set their sights on Athletic Bilbao’s Oihan Sancet.

Tottenham: £10m manager "invited" to Spurs talks with approach made

The Lilywhites want to hold discussions.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 19, 2025

According to a report from The Boot Room, Tottenham are also considering options from within the Premier League, and they have now joined the race for Manchester City’s Nico O’Reilly, who is attracting the attention of some of Europe’s top clubs.

Having enjoyed a breakthrough season with Man City, the likes of Bayern Munich, RB Leipzig and Paris Saint-Germain have now expressed an interest in O’Reilly, while Chelsea and Newcastle United headline the interest from the Premier League.

The 20-year-old is an attacking midfielder by trade, but he has showcased his versatility by starring at left-back since breaking into the City starting XI, and Pep Guardiola is eager to keep hold of him.

In fact, such is City’s determination to retain the services of the youngster, who has previously been valued at £40m, they are in talks over a new contract, which could make it very difficult for Spurs to lure him to north London.

"Amazing" O'Reilly starring for Man City

It is little wonder some of Europe’s top clubs are now queuing up for the starlet, given the level of his performances since breaking into the Man City side, scoring twice in his last two Premier League outings, including what could be a very important effort against Everton last time out.

Football talent scout Jacek Kulig has clearly been impressed by the City academy graduate’s recent displays, lauding him as “amazing” earlier this month, while also describing him as a “versatile and quality player”, given the job he has done at left-back.

That said, it seems unlikely that Tottenham will be able to sign the England U20 international this summer, considering he is now closing in on a contract extension at the Etihad Stadium, which means they may have to move on to other attacking midfield targets, of which there is no shortage.

Target

Current club

Potential cost

Nico Paz

Como

£8m

Oihan Sancet

Athletic Bilbao

£69m

Jobe Bellingham

Sunderland

£20m

Eberechi Eze

Crystal Palace

£50m