Josh Hazlewood led Australia’s surge to a 159-run victory in Barbados as West Indies lost all ten wickets in the final session of the third day, the final two falling in consecutive deliveries to Nathan Lyon in what would have been the last over of the day.Australia claimed the extra half-hour with West Indies seven down but with Shamar Joseph throwing the bat, having been dropped in the deep by Sam Konstas, and Justin Greaves playing solidly, it appeared Australia would be forced to return on the fourth day. However, Shamar edged to slip before Jayden Seales was caught at short leg to end the match. It completed a performance where familiar Australia strengths came to the fore amid continued questions about the top order, but they were confronted by challenging conditions.Travis Head, who was the beneficiary of West Indies’ seventh dropped catch of the match, Beau Webster and Alex Carey all played with the proactiveness needed on this surface. Head was named Player of the Match for his twin half-centuries on a tricky surface. Carey’s superb strokeplay gave Australia plenty of buffer zone when it came to defending the target, meaning a repeat of what happened in the World Test Championship final was always unlikely on a surface that remained devilish at times, especially with the harder ball.Related

• Chase calls out 'so many questionable calls' in Barbados Test

• However you get 'em – Head, Carey and Webster show the way

Mitchell Starc struck in the first over of the chase when former captain Kraigg Brathwaite clipped loosely to backward square0leg where Konstas held a low catch. However, that was followed by some adventurous strokeplay by John Campbell, including a sweep against Hazlewood, as he and Keacy Carty made encouraging process.But innovation brought Campbell’s downfall when he attempted to lap-sweep Hazlewood again, and this time could only glove the ball to Carey. Next ball, Brandon King got an inside edge into his pads which flew high towards gully where Cameron Green, who had earlier given Carty a life on 1, used all his height to cling on. Sadly for Hazlewood, he did not make Roston Chase play at the hat-trick delivery as a packed ring of catchers awaited.Not that he was delayed long when, two overs later, Chase got an inside edge that looped to short leg before spearing one through Carty. This was Hazlewood at his very best: hammering away at a back-of-a-length and giving the surface every chance to play some tricks.Pat Cummins was then the beneficiary of those tricks when Shai Hope was cleaned up by a wicked delivery that scuttled under his bat. The run-scoring of Australia’s middle order against an older ball felt a long time ago. The only question was whether the visitors could get the job done in the evening.Marnus Labuschagne, on as a sub, produced a direct hit to remove Alzarri Joseph and Hazlewood removed Jomel Warrican for his fifth wicket. Shamar Joseph launched two balls out of the stadium and some frustration was growing for Australia before Lyon sealed the job in fading light.Travis Head celebrates his second fifty in the match•Randy Brooks/Associated Press

The game was in the balance at the start of the day, Australia ahead by 82, with plenty of eyes on how the surface would play. There was an early grubber to Head, which fortunately for him wasn’t straight, and he responded by flaying the next delivery through the off side. As Head would later find out there was always something lurking, but with a touch of fortune, runs were there to be made when intent was shown.West Indies, though, were their own worst enemy again. On 21, Head was given a life when Greaves spilled a chance at second slip. It was the seventh they had put down for the game and had come after coach Daren Sammy had overseen the morning slips catching practice where nothing had been spilled. Head went to his second fifty of the match from 77 balls.Webster, meanwhile, built an excellent innings, the third of his brief Test career, which has come on a challenging surface following the debut half-century against India at the SCG. He used his reach to good effect to get to the ball but was especially eye-catching off the back foot through the off side.Travis Head and Beau Webster got the first century stand of the Test•Randy Brooks/Associated Press

The stand of 102 was broken when Head received a brute of a delivery from Shamar Joseph that barely bounced, the only success for West Indies in the morning session when they would have hoped to knock over most of the remaining Australia batting.After the break, Webster brought up his fifty from 100 balls with a thick edge along the ground through gully before glancing Shamar Joseph down the leg side to Hope. An on-field not-out decision was overturned by third umpire Adrian Holdstock without any of the drama of the previous day.By then Carey was into his stride after having started positively but went up a gear in the over following Webster’s departure when he took 14 off Seales including the shot of the match: a skip down the pitch and perfectly executed lofted straight drive into the sightscreen. He went on to repeat the stroke against the lesser pace of Greaves, sending him over the stands at long-off, to motor to a 40-ball half-century as the game sped away from West Indies.When joined by Lyon and Hazlewood, he started to farm the strike as West Indies set their entire field back to him before lofting Chase into the deep. Shamar Joseph, who bowled the most overs in a match of his brief Test career, removed Hazlewood to claim the five-wicket haul which eluded him in the first innings.

It was yet another devastating result for Manchester United. The Red Devils slumped to another defeat, this time losing 3-1 away from home to Brentford. Ruben Amorim’s side have now lost three games in the top flight this season, winning just two and drawing the other.

That is merely a continuation of the dismal form shown under their Portuguese manager. United have only won 12 games under Amorim in not far off one year, and are yet to win back-to-back games in the Premier League.

Their trip to the Gtech Community was a chance to do just that. However, two first-half goals from Igor Thiago in the first half, and a late strike from Vitaly Janelt were enough to seal the three points for the Bees.

The only real positive for United was the fact that Benjamin Sesko bagged his first goal for the club. It was a strike that showed lots of fight, scrapping for a ball in the penalty box before finally firing a shot into the back of the net.

It was another disappointing day at the office for Amorim’s side. No one really covered themselves in glory. One player who struggled was defender Luke Shaw.

Shaw’s performance vs. Brentford

One of the Red Devils’ most experienced players, Shaw, once again started as the left centre-back in Amoirm’s infamous back three system. He has certainly had better performances in a United shirt.

The England international, who is normally excellent on the ball, was surprisingly poor in possession in West London. Out of possession, he struggled against the physicality of Brentford’s forwards, including goalscorer Thiago.

In terms of his numbers from the lunchtime kickoff, the 30-year-old had 71 touches, losing the ball 17 times. He only won one duel from four attempted, and made one error, which led to a Brentford shot, per Sofascore.

Goal journalist Richard Martin seemingly agreed that the experienced defender did not put in his best performance against the West Londoners. He gave him a 5/10 for his efforts and highlighted his struggles with the ball at his feet, describing him as “sloppy in possession.”

It was certainly not Shaw’s best day at the office, although he was not United’s worst player at the Gtech Community Stadium.

The United player who worse than Shaw

Shaw was certainly not the only player in a United shirt who struggled against the Bees. Harry Maguire was at fault for the first goal, and goalkeeper Altay Bayindir could have done better for the second strike.

However, Bruno Fernandes put in a surprisingly poor performance. The United captain had his afternoon summed up by Statman Dave, who called the situation a “nightmare.” Indeed, he struggled to get involved creatively and, crucially, missed a penalty.

That effort from 12 yards was certainly not his finest moment of the season. The second penalty he’s missed in West London this season, Fernandes struck his effort low to the goalkeeper’s left, which Caoimhin Kelleher easily managed to tip away.

It was a moment that summed up Fernandes’ afternoon. The Portugal international, once again operating deeper in a pivot, struggled to create a chance, playing just one key pass, and losing the ball 18 times.

Touches

81

Pass accuracy

78%

Passes completed

54/69

Ground duels won

3/6

Number of times ball lost

18

Long balls completed

5/11

Penalties missed

1

Key passes

1

Indeed, Martin seemed to agree that the United captain had a day to forget at the Gtech Community Stadium. He gave Fernandes a match rating of 4/10 and, unfortunately, did not have anything positive to discuss from his performance.

United’s number eight certainly was not involved enough creatively, either. Perhaps that is more on Amoirm rather than the reflection of a poor showing. Fernandes would surely be able to create more chances if he were playing further forward, rather than in a pivot. With that being said, perhaps you’d have expected him to create more with United chasing the game.

It was definitely a day to forget for Fernandes. Normally, such a consistent penalty taker, he missed from the spot to make it 2-2 and give United a fighting chance of getting a positive result.

Not just Obi: Man Utd have "dangerous" attacker who can be the next Rooney

Man United fans can get excited about this player’s talent.

ByJoe Nuttall Sep 26, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur have now opened talks with the agents of a Brazilian forward, who is being targeted by a number of Europe’s top clubs.

Spurs keen on new forward amid injury woes

Injuries were arguably the main reason Tottenham finished 17th in the Premier League last season, and they have once again struggled on that front at the beginning of the new campaign, with forwards Dominic Solanke and Randal Kolo Muani spending time on the sidelines.

However, Thomas Frank has now provided a new update on the duo, confirming Kolo Muani is in contention for the game against Aston Villa this afternoon, with Solanke also making progress towards a return, after featuring just twice in the Premier League this term.

The Spurs boss said: “Dom is progressing well after surgery,” Frank said in his pre-match press conference. He’s been back on pitch this week, he’s progressing and going forward, that’s good.”

However, having been left a little light on options at the beginning of the campaign, and with Wilson Odobert failing to provide a goal or assist in seven Premier League outings, the Lilywhites have now stepped up their pursuit of a new forward.

That is according to a report from TEAMtalk, which states Tottenham have held talks with the agent of highly sought-after Vasco da Gama forward Rayan Vitor, who is regarded as one of the best youngsters to come out of Brazil in recent times.

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Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal are also in the race for the 19-year-old, alongside Barcelona, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, so there could be fierce competition for his signature, and a deal may be relatively expensive for such a young player.

The teenager, who may have the potential to become one of the world’s best wingers, has a £35m release clause in his contract with the Brazilian club, although it may be possible to get a deal done for £26m – £29m with add-ons.

"Deadly" Rayan Vitor catching the eye in Brazil

Despite his age, the starlet has emerged as one of Vasco da Gama’s most important players this season, chipping in with 15 goals in all competitions, having also displayed his versatility by playing at both right-wing and centre-forward.

Competition

Appearances

Goals

Brazilian Serie A

26

10

Copa Sudamericana

8

1

Copa do Brasil

8

4

Scout Ben Mattinson has been left impressed by the young Brazilian’s performances, describing him as an “instinctive finisher” who’s “deadly in the box”, given the Vasco da Gama star’s ability to anticipate where the ball is going and where other players will be.

As such, with Frank in need of more depth in attacking areas, Tottenham should undoubtedly look to get a deal done, and it is promising news that talks have now been opened.

Looking to get contracts done far earlier these days, Liverpool are now reportedly planning talks with two of Arne Slot’s key players in the coming months.

Liverpool confirm Leoni injury blow

It was meant to be a dream come true for Giovanni Leoni when he stepped out at Anfield for the first time on Tuesday evening. And for 80 minutes it was exactly that. The Italian, at just 18 years old, looked as composed as a veteran centre-back and showed off exactly why the Reds were so keen to secure his arrival from Parma in the summer.

A dream start quickly turned into a nightmare in the 81st minute, however, when Leoni suffered a knee injury that is likely to end his campaign before it’s truly got started.

Liverpool confirmed the news and the defender, himself, took to social media to say: “I want to sincerely thank every single who has shown me support in this difficult moment. It wasn’t the debut I had always dreamed of but I will give everything to be back playing in this magical stadium as soon as possible. Thank you so much.”

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For the teenager, it’s an undeniable blow. For Liverpool, it’s a problem that they must now solve. Without Leoni, the Reds have just three senior centre-backs available, with one of those being the injury-prone Joe Gomez. Suddenly, Slot is just two injuries away from turning towards an auxiliary defender.

That said, one of the options that could play there if the emergency situation occurs is reportedly about to enter contract talks and keeping hold of him is now more important than ever.

Liverpool planning Jones & Gravenberch contract talks

As reported by The Boot Room’s Graeme Bailey, Liverpool are now planning contract talks with Ryan Gravenberch and Curtis Jones.

Gravenberch, now one of the most important players at Anfield, is set to be rewarded for his new role well before his current deal runs out in 2028. Jones, meanwhile, has until 2027 and is arguably due a pay rise up from his current £19,000-a-week salary.

Bailey told TBR: “When it comes to Liverpool contracts, I think Curtis Jones will be sorted pretty soon. Ryan Gravenberch will be the next cab off the rank after that. They know they’ve got a potential world-class player on their hands.

“Previously, they’d been linked with the likes of Caicedo and others, but in Gravenberch, they believe they’ve got someone who, for his age, can hold a candle to anyone in world football. He’ll be dealt with very soon, too.”

It’s deals that both have certainly earned as Premier League champions and that is likely to be reflected in any potential wage increase in the near future.

German football legend Lothar Matthaus believes 17-year-old Lennart Karl could be the next Jamal Musiala, a fearless and technically gifted prodigy destined for Bayern Munich stardom under Vincent Kompany. After scoring on his Champions League debut and in the Bundesliga against Borussia Monchengladbach in the same week, Karl has captured Germany’s attention, with Matthaus seeing in him the same blend of boldness and intelligence that made Musiala a modern Bayern jewel.

The rise of Bayern's new teen sensation

When Karl marked his Champions League debut with a curling strike against Club Brugge, the Allianz Arena erupted. At 17, he became Bayern’s youngest-ever scorer in the competition, breaking a record once set by Musiala. But beyond the goal, it was his composure, creativity, and quiet confidence that truly turned heads.

Bayern’s 4-0 win over Brugge was emphatic, but Karl’s performance was the story. From his first touch to his explosive runs, he looked every inch a Bayern player – technical, decisive, and unafraid. His journey, however, has been anything but instant. Karl began in Germany’s fifth tier with Viktoria Aschaffenburg, before stints at Eintracht Frankfurt’s youth system and a return to Viktoria in 2022. Bayern signed him later that year, drawn to his intelligence and discipline. From scoring 17 goals in nine matches for Bayern’s U17 side to dazzling in Europe, his rise is a story of persistence and purpose, not hype.

It’s no surprise that his performances have impressed former German captain Matthaus. The World Cup-winning legend has spoken glowingly about the young winger, setting the stage for wider recognition of Karl’s rapid rise in the Bundesliga.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesMatthaus claims “Karl will be deployed regularly”

Among those watching Karl’s evolution closely is German football legend Matthaus, who has hailed the teenager as one of the Bundesliga’s most exciting young prospects. In his column, Matthaus drew parallels between Karl and his teammate Musiala, praising both for their confidence and technical flair.

"Can Karl follow the path Jamal Musiala took before him? The possibilities are always there; it's up to the player himself, and he needs a coach who trusts him. I think Kompany trusts him based on his recent performances and isn't worried about benching or substituting a seasoned player for him. And I believe Karl will get regular playing time because he's delivered when he's been on the pitch," Matthaus said.

The former Bayern player further added: "Karl will be deployed regularly. Vincent Kompany has slowly introduced Karl to the team, with brief appearances in the Bundesliga, the DFB Cup, and last week, his first full 90 minutes in the Champions League. Karl caused a sensation with his goals against Bruges and Gladbach, but he still needs to show up in training every day. He's ambitious and wants to develop – those are the basic requirements."

For Matthaus, the 17-year-old's rise reflects deeper philosophy, as he explains: "This presents a great opportunity for FC Bayern to integrate another player from the campus into the first team, after Pavlovic and Stanisic, as Uli Hoeneß has always wanted. I believe Karl can become an important player for Kompany, who just extended his contract until 2029."

Jonas Urbig also finding his stride at Munich

While the headlines belong to Karl, another young name is staking a claim, Jonas Urbig. Signed by Bayern in January 2025 on a long-term deal, Urbig’s trajectory has been quietly impressive. A product of Koln’s youth system, he gained senior experience on loans at Jahn Regensburg and Greuther Furth, compiling 33 appearances and 11 clean sheets across those spells, including a run of over 600 minutes without conceding in 2023.

Urbig’s Bayern breakthrough came under pressure when Manuel Neuer’s absence handed the youngster sudden responsibility. Urbig replaced Neuer in a Champions League tie against Bayer Leverkusen and kept a clean sheet in a 3-0 win. Over the 2024-25 season he made eight Bundesliga appearances and four in Europe, showing command in the box, calm distribution and an ability to deal with heavy workloads.

Speaking about Urbig, Matthaus said: "Urbig has done well at Bayern so far, apart from one mistake in Berlin, and was there when it mattered most. He can learn from Manuel Neuer every day in training . If he develops accordingly, he may eventually become Neuer's successor."

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AFPKompany’s calm amid the noise

“This isn't normal. I'm not a fan of the hype he'll get now” Kompany said after Karl's debut in Champions League. "I'm a fan of training and calm. We'll see what he shows and just move on." 

The coach's words remind the young star that it is okay to celebrate the moment, but one should know when to return to fundamentals. It’s the same approach that has allowed Urbig to grow: steady exposure, ownership of errors, and daily work.

With Kompany recently signed until 2029, Bayern have signalled they want continuity. Karl and Urbig are beneficiaries of that stability. Karl will continue to receive minutes in cup ties, rotational league appearances and carefully selected European outings; Urbig will keep accumulating high-pressure experience until a permanent succession plan is clear.

As David Moyes looks to solve any remaining problems in his Everton side, the Toffees are set to target another out-of-favour player from a big Premier League club after the success of Jack Grealish.

Where Everton need to strengthen in January

It was an impressive first summer for The Friedkin Group, who matched their move into the Hill Dickinson with a number of fresh faces. Grealish, Thierno Barry, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Tyler Dibling, Adam Aznou, Mark Travers, Merlin Rohl and Carlos Alcaraz all arrived as Moyes was eventually backed in full.

Since then, there have been several signs that the Toffees are no longer a side expecting to be fighting among the bottom three in the Premier League. Instead, they’ve so far set their sights on the top half and beyond – sitting as high as eighth after seven games.

Grealish has been particularly impressive since arriving on loan from Manchester City, with his first goal for the club coming in last-gasp fashion against Crystal Palace last time out. The former Aston Villa star has looked a man reborn in Merseyside after being frozen out at Man City at times and it’s Moyes who’s reaping the rewards.

That said, there are still some problems that the Everton boss must address when the January transfer window swings open. Leading his attack, for example, is an out-of-form Beto or summer signing Barry, who have both struggled to get going on the goals front so far this season.

Beto has been particularly poor whilst Barry continues to settle and finding a replacement for the towering forward should be seen as one of Everton’s top priorities this winter.

Everton expected to target Joshua Zirkzee

According to Pete O’Rourke, Everton are expected to target Joshua Zirkzee in the January transfer window as he continues to struggle for game time at Man United.

The forward has lost his place to big-money signing Benjamin Sesko and is unlikely to get it back anytime soon, sparking rumours that he could leave Old Trafford just 18 months after arriving.

Dubbed “intelligent” by analyst Ben Mattinson before his move to Man United, Zirkzee should jump at the chance to join Everton if they come calling in January.

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Moyes has already transformed Grealish into a player who could very well find himself back in contention for a World Cup place next summer and Zirkzee could be next to benefit. The forward wouldn’t be the first player to find his best form after leaving Old Trafford, either.

Journalist Graeme Bailey has claimed that Leeds United are keen on signing a “sensational” Champions League player in the January transfer window.

Mixed Leeds injury news ahead of Burnley clash

The Whites make the trip to Burnley on Saturday afternoon, in an important Premier League clash between two of last season’s promoted sides.

Leeds manager Daniel Farke has provided an injury update ahead of the game, admitting that there is both good and bad news to report.

“Good news was Lucas Perri, so he was able to train the last two weeks together with us, so he was able to use also this international break to build up a bit his fitness level. Of course, after being out so long, he can’t be there at 100 percent, but you see him going more or less from day to day, which is good news.

“With Willy Gnonto, he won’t be available for this game because his calf problems are sorted but sadly he had to use the international break for a little minor hernia surgery, so not a major thing but he needed to do this. He will be just back in team training next week so I expect then to have him available, perhaps already for Friday evening for the next home game but definitely not for this away trip.

“Very positive and good news was Daniel James because he is a bit ahead of schedule in his rehab, so a compliment also to our medical department, our rehab coaches. He was even involved already, I would say, in major parts of team training during this week but he is definitely not in contention for the starting line-up. Noah Okafor is also struggling a little bit with some adductor problems, he could be perhaps even in contention to be picked for the squad, so I didn’t expect this.”

Away from injury news, Leeds continue to look at potential new signings, and an exciting attacking player has been mentioned as an option.

Leeds have Champions League ace on their "radar"

Speaking to LeedsUnited.News, Bailey claimed that Leeds are eyeing a potential move for Bodo/Glimt winger Jens Petter Hauge in January.

Hauge stands out as such an exciting option for Leeds, with scout Jacek Kulig once calling him a “sensational” player who always stood out as a youngster with huge potential.

Now 26, the 13-cap Norway international is a proven top-level player, scoring twice in as many Champions League appearances, as well as netting six times in the Europa League.

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Hauge is capable of flourishing on both wings and as an attacking midfielder, but is predominantly a left-sided player, and he could add so much quality to Leeds’ attacking midway through the season.

Table-topping form continues with successful chase of 189 at Chester-le-Street

ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay13-Jun-2025England’s Tammy Beaumont hit a magnificent 81 to lead The Blaze to a seven-wicket win over Durham in the Vitality Blast despite the best efforts of Suzie Bates.Durham were put into bat and lost an early wicket during their innings but Bates (77), who was well supported by Bess Heath (45), inspired them to 188 for 5, their highest T20 total.The chase of 189 got off to a bad start for The Blaze but the returning Beaumont, who combined with Kathryn Bryce (39) for a second-wicket partnership worth 118, supercharged the innings with a dominant performance and the visitors notched up the fourth win of their T20 campaign.The Blaze put Durham in to bat at a sun-soaked Banks Homes Riverside and got off to a good start as Cassidy McCarthy removed Leah Dobson for 6, with the opener caught on the leg-side boundary.Bates started well, showing plenty of aggression and she played a lovely shot on the off side for four off the bowling of McCarthy. The former New Zealand captain then hit Kirstie Gordon for three fours in her first over.The hosts reached 50 in the powerplay and Mady Villiers played a lovely shot, lofting a Kathryn Bryce ball to the boundary. Villiers continued to motor as she swept a Gordon ball to the fence, but she didn’t last much longer with Sarah Glenn getting her for 36 after she went for one hit too many and was caught on the leg-side boundary.Glenn struck again for The Blaze, bowling Durham skipper Hollie Armitage for 8, but Bates reached her half-century off 37 balls soon after.Bates then took a liking to the bowling of Georgia Elwiss as she hit her for back-to-back boundaries and Heath followed that up with two fours of her own. The Blaze pulled it back for a period, but Bates heaved a Kathryn Bryce ball to the legside boundary for four and Heath followed that up with an inventive scoop.Heath’s swashbuckling knock came to an end for 45, with Kathryn Bryce getting her and Bates fell for 77 two balls later.The Blaze’s chase of 189 got off to the worst possible start as Marie Kelly cut a Lauren Filer delivery straight to Sophia Turner at deep backward point, who produced a great catch. However, England opener Beaumont started well as she played a delightful shot through the on side for four.She backed that up with one that she whipped off her legs for four and she continued to motor as her side went to 50 in the powerplay.Beaumont then hit her first maximum of the innings as she heaved a Katherine Fraser delivery down the ground and she followed that up with a second, smashing a Katie Levick delivery over the long-off boundary which got her to fifty off 31 balls.Kathryn Bryce then joined in as she smashed a Villiers ball over the ropes and The Blaze went past three figures.Durham struck back with two huge wickets as Phoebe Turner bowled Kathryn Bryce for a well-made 39 and Beaumont followed soon after as Levick got her for 81.Elwiss and Heather Graham joined forces in the middle and Graham hit three consecutive boundaries from Villiers to relieve some pressure. Elwiss then launched a Sophia Turner ball for six down the ground and along with Graham she guided the visitors home with one over to spare.

AC Milan have reportedly asked USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino to omit star player Christian Pulisic from his upcoming squad. The Serie A side want the winger to finalise his recovery in Milan to be fit for the derby match against Inter, as manager Massimiliano Allegri seeks to finally deploy Pulisic in attack alongside Rafael Leao in the crucial fixture.

• Pulisic nearing return as injury rehab continues

  Milan are in discussions with US Soccer to request that Pulisic be left out of Pochettino's upcoming USMNT squad, according to a report from . The Rossoneri are eager to manage the winger's final stage of recovery from a hamstring injury at the club's headquarters ahead of the crucial derby clash with Inter after the international break.

  Pulisic's return is seen as a vital solution for manager Allegri, who is reportedly enduring a strained relationship with striker Santiago Gimenez. The 27-year-old winger is recovering from a tear to the biceps femoris in his right thigh, an injury he sustained while on international duty during a friendly against Australia in the last break.

  While the initial prognosis suggested a 20-day absence, his recovery may be slightly ahead of schedule. Pulisic will miss Milan's upcoming Serie A fixture against Atalanta in Bergamo on Tuesday. However, he could be in contention for a return at San Siro against Roma on Sunday. If that match is deemed too soon, his return is considered certain for the following game against Parma.

Advertisement

• Getty
  

  Pulisic provides update as Milan seek USMNT exemption

  Pulisic confirmed he is progressing well in a recent social media post, easing concerns over a long-term lay-off.

  "It's been a tough couple of weeks, but my recovery is going great, and I can't wait to get back," he posted.

  With Pulisic not expected to be 100 percent fit before the international break, Milan have begun mediation with US Soccer. reports that the club has asked for Pulisic to be omitted from the squad for the upcoming friendlies against Paraguay and Uruguay.

  At a minimum, Milan hope Pochettino will excuse the player from the second friendly against Uruguay, which is set to be played in New Jersey. The Rossoneri's primary motivation is the Derby della Madonnina against Inter, scheduled for the first weekend after the break. Having Pulisic remain at the club for a full training block is seen as a significant turning point for their preparations.

• Allegri's 'ideal attack' hampered by Gimenez-Pulisic-Leao issues

  Pulisic’s return is viewed by Allegri as the key to solving his side's "striker problem." The report from Calciomercato states that the relationship between Allegri and striker Gimenez is at an "all-time low," with the Mexican international starting more from a lack of alternatives than tactical preference.

  Allegri has reportedly been keen to deploy his ideal attacking duo of Pulisic and Leao, a partnership he has not been able to test this season due to successive injuries to both players. Before his injury, Pulisic was in strong form, registering four goals and two assists in six Serie A appearances.

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• Getty Images
  

  What next for Pulisic and AC Milan?

  While Pulisic focuses on his recovery, Milan must navigate their midweek clash with Atalanta without him. All eyes will then turn to his potential availability for the Roma fixture and the subsequent decision from USMNT coach Pochettino.

  An exemption from international duty would be a major boost for Allegri as he looks to finally field his first-choice attack for the high-stakes derby against Inter.

MatériaMais Notícias

A delegação do São Paulo chegou ao Rio de Janeiro no fim da tarde deste sábado (16). Neste domingo (17) o Tricolor encara o Flamengo pelo confronto de ida na final da Copa do Brasil. A partida será disputada no estádio do Maracanã, às 16h (horário de Brasília).

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Um grupo de torcedores esteve presente na sala de desembarque do aeroporto do Galeão para prestar apoio ao elenco são-paulino antes da decisão. Antes, uma grande festa havia sido feita na saída do ônibus que transportava os jogadores do Centro de Treinamento, na Barra Funda, em São Paulo, até o aeroporto de Guarulhos.

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O veículo que levava o elenco do Tricolor foi ‘abraçado’ pelos são-paulinos que fizeram uma espécie de procissão durante o início do trajeto. Pessoas subiram em árvores e placas para, pelo menos, encontrarem o ‘busão’ e transmitirem confiança aos atletas. Na porta do CCT, alguns jogadores desceram e aplaudiram a nação são-paulina.

No caminho até o aeroporto de Guarulhos, o ônibus foi ‘escoltado’ por algumas motos, que acompanharam o transporte da equipe tricolor por cerca de 30 km.

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O São Paulo disputa a final da Copa do Brasil pela segunda vez na história e busca o primeiro título da competição. A expectativa é que 3,5 mil são-paulinos estejam no Maracanã. Mesmo com o ingresso custando 700 reais, os bilhetes para os visitantes se esgotaram pouco tempo após as vendas serem abertas.

O confronto de volta acontecerá no dia 24 de outubro, no estádio do Morumbi.

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