The New York Mets will likely be without pitcher Sean Manaea to start the season as he's dealing with a right oblique strain, the team's manager Carlos Mendoza told reporters on Monday.
Mendoza shared that Manaea will be "shut down" for a couple of weeks, and it's likely the starting pitcher will begin the 2025 season on the injured list. There is no clear timeline for when he's expected to make his season debut.
In his first year with the Mets last season, Manaea started 32 games, posting a 12-6 record and a 3.47 ERA—the lowest in his career when he's started in over 25 games. He struck out 184 batters and walked 63 over his career-high 181 2/3 innings pitched. Manaea made four postseason starts in the Mets' run to the National League Championship Series, posting a 2-1 record with a 4.74 ERA and 19 strikeouts.
The Mets were clearly impressed with Manaea's season with them as they signed him to a three-year, $75 million contract in December.
Big picture: SL will look to guard against complacency
The only way from here is up. Just a bad day at the office. A freak occurrence. The only important result is the next one.These are probably some of the self-soothing platitudes those in the Bangladesh camp might be telling themselves after their calamitous display with the bat in the first ODI against Sri Lanka. Seven wickets for five runs, from 100 for 1 to 105 for 8 – a simple fact that there is no hiding from. But for that self-soothing to truly take effect, they might need to pick themselves off the mat, take a cold and hard look at their performance, and maybe understand that there was more good than bad.Or rather, understand that on most days, the bad will never be quite . After all, they had restricted a fairly robust Sri Lanka batting line-up to just 244 – a score that needed yet another rescue act from captain cool Charith Asalanka to attain, and one that seemed at least 40 runs below par. Then with the bat, Tanzid Hasan, during his 61-ball 62, made the surface look what it was: a bit sticky but any demons firmly in slumber.Related
'Asalanka has been key alongside me' – Jayasuriya on SL's rise up ODI rankings
Tanzid Hasan wants Bangladesh batters to 'bat long and deep'
Bangladesh sink after 7 for 5 collapse, Asalanka century
Khettarama bites back as Bangladesh unravel
Taskin on Bangladesh's 7 for 5 collapse: 'We panicked a bit'
In truth, this was simply something that happens in sport every once so often, where one team performs at a level well above average, and another plunges to new depths of mediocrity; Sri Lanka were electric in the field, while some Bangladesh batters missed straight deliveries. That is the barebones reality.So while Bangladesh might do well not to dwell too much on their performance, Sri Lanka would do similarly well not to get carried away. The emphatic nature of the end result obscured some less-than-illustrious batting from the top order, while their bowling – particularly from the seamers – lacked the menace and tenacity of their Bangladesh counterparts.Sri Lanka may also wonder why the promised seamer- and-batter-friendly surface in Colombo never transpired. They had stacked their side with three seamers, but by the end of the game, both of Kamindu Mendis’ arms were getting more of a workout than any of Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando or Eshan Malinga.Bangladesh, too, had opted for three seamers, and it will be interesting to see if both sides persevere with that strategy. But in any eventuality, a reversion to the mean for one – or both – of these sides, might mean that the second ODI on Saturday might just end up being the close contest the first had promised for long periods, before veering off the rails so dramatically.Jaker Ali took on Sri Lanka’s bowling in the first game•AFP/Getty Images
Recent form
Sri Lanka WWWWL Bangladesh LLLLLLIn the spotlight: Kamindu Mendis and Jaker AliOn the fourth ball Kamindu Mendis faced in the first ODI on Wednesday, he looked to drive Taskin Ahmed on the up, only to end up chipping a simple catch to mid-off. Fast forward a few hours, and off the fourth delivery he bowled, Kamindu snuck one through Towhid Hridoy’s defences before proceeding to grab two more wickets to instigate Bangladesh’s collapse. Those three wickets also came courtesy both arms, and considering the action he was imparting on the ball, it seems Kamindu has been working on his bowling a little more as of late. In a format where versatility is so crucial, Kamindu’s increasing ability to impact in every area of the game could prove invaluable.During his knock of 51 from 64 balls, with just the tail for company, Jaker Ali may have, for a fleeting moment, thought about achieving an impossible chase. In the end, he fell short, but for the hour or so that he was out in the middle, Sri Lanka – despite being so close to victory – couldn’t rest easy. But in taking on the bowling as comfortably as he did, Jaker once again showcased his ability to take hold of a game regardless of match state. For Bangladesh, the goal now should be to give him a platform to not just pull the side out of the mire, but also propel their innings to the types of totals modern ODIs demand.Dunith Wellalage could come in for Milan Rathnayake in the second ODI•AFP/Getty Images
Team news
Sri Lanka are likely to go with same XI, though Dunith Wellalage could come in for Milan Rathnayake if the pitch looks to support spin similar to the first game.Sri Lanka (probable): 1 Nishan Madushka, 2 Pathum Nissanka, 3 Kusal Mendis (wk), 4 Kamindu Mendis, 5 Charith Asalanka (capt), 6 Janith Liyanage, 7 Milan Rathnayake/Dunith Wellalage, 8 Wanindu Hasaranga, 9 Maheesh Theekshana, 10 Eshan Malinga, 11 Asitha FernandoRishad Hossain missed the first ODI with fever, and could be back in contention. If so, he might replace Tanvir Islam, who seemed to be struggling with his calf.Bangladesh (probable): 1 Tanzid Hasan, 2 Parvez Hossain, 3 Najmul Hossain Shanto, 4 Litton Das (wk), 5 Towhid Hridoy, 6 Mehidy Hasan Miraz (capt), 7 Jaker Ali, 8 Tanzim Hasan, 9 Taskin Ahmed, 10 Tanvir Islam/Rishad Hossain, 11 Mustafizur Rahman
Pitch and conditions
Periods of rain are anticipated across the day, so we could expect some stoppages. As for the pitch, after an early period where Bangladesh’s seamers prospered in the first ODI, by the end, it had begun to revert to a more traditional Khettarama surface – though it was still far from being unplayable. However, there seems to be a concerted effort to make surfaces more batting-friendly, so batting first could once more seem to the play.Among active players, Taskin Ahmed has the most wickets in ODIs between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh•Associated Press
Stats and trivia
Of Asalanka’s five ODI hundreds, four have required him to come out to bat inside the first 15 overs.
Sri Lanka have never lost to Bangladesh in 11 ODIs at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
Wanindu Hasaranga is one run away from 1000 in ODIs. Whenever he scores that, he’ll become the 11th Sri Lankan to achieve the double of 1000 runs and 100 wickets in the format, having got to the latter landmark in the first ODI.
Taskin Ahmed’s 26 wickets are the most by an active bowler in ODIs between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. That is also the third-highest after Lasith Malinga (27) and Muthiah Muralidaran (31).
Quote
“We were building a good partnership. We were a bit unfortunate because they took a brilliant catch, and then the run-out happened. That was a turning point. If we could have added 30-40 more runs, the match would have been much easier.”
أعلن ليونيل سكالوني مدرب منتخب الأرجنتين قائمة بطل العالم لمواجهة منتخب أنجولا ودياً استعداداً لمنافسات كأس العالم 2026.
وسيلتقي منتخب الأرجنتين مع منتخب أنجولاً يوم الجمعة الموافق 14 نوفمبر، في إطار استعدادات المنتخب الإفريقي أيضاً لمنافسات كأس الأمم الإفريقية.
وتأتي مباراة منتخب الأرجنتين مع منتخب أنجولاً في مباراة تشهد مناسبة خاصة للمنتخب الإفريقي وهي عيد الاستقلال وستجرى على ملعب 11 نوفمبر في مباراة كلفت الاتحاد الأنجولي 12 مليون دولار.
أقرأ أيضاً.. ميسي: الفوز بكأس العالم كان حلمًا عظيمًا
وجاء على رأس قائمة منتخب الأرجنتين الأسطورة ليونيل ميسي نجم إنتر ميامي الأمريكي، وضمت القائمة كل من:
في حراسة المرمى: رولي” أوليمبيك مارسيليا”- والتر بينيتز “كريستال بالاس”
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.
Ex-Manchester United midfielder Andreas Pereira has taken a swipe at his former club’s training facilities after hailing the quality of those at his new club Palmeiras. Pereira spent 11 years in Manchester, which included a whole host of time away on loan, and has now revealed Man Utd’s training base wasn’t a patch on the offering at his new club in Brazil.
Pereira takes aim at United’s facilities
Pereira has weighed in on the debate about Man Utd's training base facilities, which have recently undergone a £50 million ($67m) makeover since Pereira left. Speaking to , he said: "Compared to what's out there, it's the elite of football. Few clubs have the structure Palmeiras has. I've worked for several big clubs in Europe, and I can say that Palmeiras has the best structure I've ever worked in. Better than Manchester United when I was there."
AdvertisementGetty Images SportFrom dilapidated The Cliff to high-class Carrington
The Cliff was Man Utd's primary training ground from 1938 until 1999, located in Salford, it remains an iconic facility where club legends like George Best and Bobby Charlton trained. Though the first team moved to Carrington, The Cliff is still used by the United academy and foundation for training and rugby league side Salford train there, too. Following redevelopment of its first-team building, the Trafford Training Centre is a state-of-the-art facility designed to foster performance and wellbeing. The revamp, driven by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, addressed previous criticisms regarding outdated infrastructure and aims to provide a world-class environment for players and staff. The enhanced facility boasts a range of amenities, including upgraded gym facilities, swimming pool, cryotherapy chambers, and a redeveloped canteen. It also features dedicated barbershop facilities, an F1 simulator, and a cinema-style analysis room. The design emphasises open workspaces and collaboration, with natural light and ventilation prioritised and a notable addition is a "flow system" that guides players through changing rooms, gym, pool, and medical zones in a sequential order. Medical facilities have also been significantly improved, now including advanced equipment like MRI and CT scanners. The Carrington complex, encompassing 108 acres, also includes numerous football pitches, an indoor pitch, and a helipad. It is considered one of Europe's most secure training facilities, featuring a high security wall and extensive surveillance.
Pereira’s starts new chapter in Brazil
Pereira's career has seen him transition from a promising United youth prospect to a seasoned midfielder with experience in multiple top European leagues and in Brazil. Born in Belgium, Pereira joined Man Utd in 2011 at the age of 15, progressing through their academy and making his first-team debut in 2014. While at Old Trafford, he struggled to secure a regular starting spot, leading to several loan spells. These included stints at Granada and Valencia in La Liga, Lazio in Italy's Serie A, and Flamengo in Brazil's Serie A. During his time at Flamengo, he scored seven goals in 39 appearances. In July 2022, Pereira made a permanent move to Fulham for a fee reportedly around £10m ($13.4m). In west London, he became an important player, making 119 appearances across three seasons and scoring 10 goals. His consistent performances led to a call-up to the Brazil national team, making him the first Fulham player to achieve this. In August, Pereira returned to Brazil, joining Palmeiras.
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Getty Images SportWorld Cup glory in Pereira’s sights
Pereira's is a regular for his country, who have already qualified for the 2026 World Cup. And his recent return to Brazil will certainly boost his chances of becoming one of the first names on Carlo Ancelotti’s squad list for next year’s tournament.
This season is one filled with promise and excitement among the Tottenham Hotspur fanbase, understandably so, given the Europa League triumph against Manchester United in 2024/25.
After years of struggles on the pitch, the night in Bilbao will live long in the memory of all Lilywhites supporters – as they ended their near two-decade wait for a form of silverware.
The hierarchy have also backed Thomas Frank in his quest to build on such a triumph, with over £100m being spent on new additions to help the Dane in North London.
Tottenham Hotspur managerThomasFrank
He’s already made a sensational start to life in the role, even beating Manchester City 2-0 at the Etihad – currently sitting fourth in the Premier League after the first three outings.
One of his recent additions to the squad has already made an excellent start to life at the club, potentially looking like a shrewd signing despite his expensive transfer fee.
Mohammed Kudus’ start to life at Spurs
In what was Frank’s first major addition as Spurs boss, he landed winger Mohammed Kudus from West Ham United in a deal totalling £55m including add-ons.
The Ghanaian achieved a total of eight combined goals and assists in England’s top-flight last campaign – undoubtedly being the shining light in the Hammers’ dismal season.
West Ham United's MohammedKuduscelebrates
He’s already made an immediate impact to life in North London, registering two assists on his league debut for the Lilywhites in the 3-0 triumph over newly-promoted Burnley.
Alongside his assist tally, the 25-year-old has also created the most chances per 90 (2.4) within the current first-team squad, which has so far made him the most threatening option at Frank’s disposal.
Kudus has also completed the most dribbles per 90 (3.1) and won possession the most times out of any player in the squad per 90 (1.4) – offering an all-round presence within the final third.
If he can continue his impressive early start to life under Frank, there’s no doubt the attacker will be a key player in any future success endured during his tenure.
However, despite his big-money transfer, he’s still valued lower than one player who’s also endured somewhat of an incredible rise during his own spell at the club.
The Spurs player worth more than Kudus
Ange Postecoglou’s stint as Spurs manager brought about their recent Europa League success, with the Aussie mainly focusing on young talents in his quest with the Lilywhites.
The likes of Pape Sarr and Micky van de Ven both joined under his guidance, with both talents starting in the final and playing a key role in their victory in Bilbao.
The latter of the duo even made a miraculous goal-line clearance in the second half, maintaining the side’s clean sheet and ultimately helping them end their extended wait for a trophy.
Other players had to bide their time before making an impact in his side, often having to resort to limited minutes before getting their chance and grabbing it with both hands.
Midfielder Lucas Bergvall is a player who did just that, cementing his place within the first-team setup after his move from Swedish side Djurgarden just over 12 months ago – costing just £8.5m.
Lucas Bergvall with the Europa League trophy.
The 19-year-old was an outcast at the start of 2024/25, but rapidly made himself a key member of the squad and ended the campaign with a total of 45 appearances across all competitions.
Despite his tender age, the Swede scored the winning goal in the Carabao Cup semi-final victory over league winners Liverpool – highlighting his nouse to perform on big occasions.
He ended up making 12 appearances in the Europa League, but missed the final due to injury, which would’ve been a bitter blow given his success during his debut campaign in England.
However, Bergvall, who’s been labelled “incredible” by Squawka Sport, has seen a sharp upturn in his market value over recent months, further highlighting his superb rise to stardom.
Lucas Bergvall – Premier League stats 2024/25
Statistics
Rank among midfielders
Passes completed
Top 10%
Pass completion
Top 14%
Tackles
Top 17%
Dribblers tackled
Top 16%
Shots blocked
Top 7%
Touches
Top 10%
Carries
Top 10%
Successful take-ons
Top 5%
Progressive carries
Top 19%
Stats via FBref.
The youngster has now been valued at a staggering £50.3m by FootballTransfers, which has seen a phenomenal six times increase on the fee forked out for his signature last summer.
His subsequent valuation is higher than that of Kudus, who’s only valued at £40.4m by the same site despite his £55m transfer to the Lilywhites back in July.
At just 19, Bergvall has a huge future ahead of him, subsequently having the perfect opportunity to continue his tremendous rise in England under Frank in the years ahead.
If he can strike up an excellent partnership with Kudus in North London, the pair could play a crucial role in any future success – potentially making the side serial winners and cementing themselves as one of Europe’s elite.
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Chelsea have done some fantastic business in the transfer window this summer.
The likes of Jorrel Hato, Jamie Gittens and Liam Delap all look like they could be future superstars under Enzo Maresca.
However, the Conference League champions’ best signing so far has been Joao Pedro, who looked spectacular in pre-season and was outstanding against West Ham United last week.
The Brazilian forward looks ready to explode at Chelsea this season, and in even more good news, the club are now close to signing another star who will be unreal alongside him.
Chelsea agree deal to sign brilliant teammate for Pedro
Even though the transfer window is set to close on Monday evening, Chelsea appear intent on making a few more signings.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
For example, despite supposedly holding talks with Tottenham Hotspur, the Blues continue to be linked with Xavi Simons.
Meanwhile, while Aston Villa are reluctant to sell, Morgan Rogers has once again been linked with the West Londoners.
England'sEberechiEzecelebrates scoring their third goal with England's Morgan Rogers
Yet, there is another Premier League star who has been touted for a move to Stamford Bridge perhaps more than any other in recent weeks – a player who now looks set to finally make the move and will be unreal alongside Pedro.
At least that is according to a recent report from The Athletic’s David Ornstein, who has delivered a massive update on the club’s pursuit of Alejandro Garnacho.
The respected journalist has revealed that Chelsea and Manchester United have agreed to a deal worth a fixed £40m plus a 10% sell-on fee.
The young Argentine is scheduled to undergo his medical in London later today, and should that go well, will put pen to paper on a contract until 2032.
It is undoubtedly a significant amount of money to spend on someone so young, but Garnacho is undeniably talented and could be exceptional in this Chelsea side, especially alongside Pedro.
Why Garnacho would be unreal with Pedro
One of the primary reasons Garnacho could be so effective alongside Pedro this season is due to their respective output.
For example, the “superstar” in the making, as dubbed by journalist Liam Canning, scored 11 goals and provided 10 assists in 58 appearances last season, totalling 3568 minutes.
That means he maintained an average of a goal involvement every 2.76 games, or 169.90 minutes, which is really quite impressive considering he was playing in a historically terrible United side and is still just 21.
For his efforts, when you include his performances at the Club World Cup, the former Brighton & Hove Albion star scored 13 goals and provided seven assists in 33 appearances, totalling 2299 minutes, last season.
That comes out to a sensational average of a goal involvement every 1.65 games, or every 114.95 minutes.
Garnacho & Pedro in 24/25
Players
Garnacho
Pedro
Appearances
58
33
Minutes
3568′
2299′
Goals
11
13
Assists
10
7
Goal Involvements per Match
0.36
0.60
Minutes per Goal Involvements
169.90′
114.95′
All Stats via Transfermarkt
When we examine these numbers, it’s clear that, in addition to being effective in front of goal, both players are more than adept at creating chances for their teammates.
In other words, they could form a devastating and unpredictable partnership in which opposition sides will never be too sure who’s going to play provider or finisher at any given moment.
Moreover, with both players being more than comfortable in a few different positions, they’d almost certainly have more opportunities to play together, gain a better understanding of one another’s game, and interchange more effectively over time.
Finally, as both players are still in their early 20s, they will be able to grow and develop together, which should only strengthen their partnership over the coming seasons.
Alejandro Garnarcho for Manchester United.
Ultimately, Garnacho is an exciting signing in his own right, but his potential at Chelsea is even higher with Pedro in the team.
Enzo Maresca calling £60m star with Chelsea ready to triple his salary
Birmingham City are finally underway in the Championship as the many twists and turns of the 2025/26 season now lie ahead.
The Blues will ambitiously be aiming for back-to-back promotions all the way up to the Premier League, after making League One look like a breeze when clinching the third-tier title with a record-breaking 111 points.
Marvin Duckschin action for Werder Bremen.
Marvin Ducksch will be hoping he can play a pivotal role in Birmingham achieving this unthinkable feat, as the German attempts to acclimatise to his new English surroundings swiftly, having been a prolific performer in his native Bundesliga for some time now.
What Ducksch can offer Birmingham
Birmingham often gets their own way in the chaotic transfer window, having previously flexed their muscles by picking up ex-Celtic striker Kyogo Furuhashi for a whopping £10m earlier this summer.
However, that wasn’t the case, unfortunately, when it came to chasing after the coveted signature of Chuba Akpom, as Ipswich Town stole the signature of the ex-Arsenal striker off Birmingham at the final hour.
Thankfully, the reigning League One champions had the now ex-Werder Bremen attacker up their sleeve as a back-up plan, having snapped up the shot-heavy 31-year-old following his £1.7m move.
He should be a hit in the English game with his imposing 6-foot-2 frame and his clinical eye for goal, as seen in Ducksch tallying up a lethal 54 strikes for Bremen across 134 games, on top of chipping in with a high 40 assists.
Fellow new faces such as Demarai Gray will surely love linking up with the unselfish forward, therefore, with the 31-year-old just fresh off a Bundesliga campaign that saw him create a stunning 17 big chances in total.
But, if the Dortmund-born striker fancies elevating his output in terms of goals in the West Midlands, he will want some inch-perfect service, which could come his way if Chris Davies’ men can seal a deal for this playmaker to also join the building.
The "quality" talent who is perfect for Ducksch
After all, if there is a move out there that can take the Bundesliga goal machine’s game to that next level in England, Birmingham should go all out to try and seal the deal.
Ducksch’s perfect partner in attack could well be Rangers midfielder Kieran Dowell, as Birmingham have been tipped to go back in for their former loanee multiple times across this hectic window to date.
Kieran Dowell
No such move has whirred into motion yet, unfortunately, but after a lacklustre opening day performance under Russell Martin in Scotland, with possession haphazardly given away 12 times versus Motherwell, the ex-Southampton boss might now be more willing to listen to the Blues’ advances.
Whilst the £16k-per-week ace has been regularly hit-and-miss at Ibrox, Dowell has proven himself to be a classy performer in the EFL in the past, particularly when carving out consistent opportunities for his attacking teammates to latch onto.
Games played
123
Goals scored
26
Assists
12
Big chances created
25
Indeed, it’s clear from the table above that Dowell’s strengths – when previously playing in the Championship – lie in his ability to fashion chances for his charitable teammates, with a standout 25 big chances created on his end from 123 career encounters in the tough division.
He also has a promising 26 goals next to his name, meaning he could step into the goalscoring limelight if Ducksch was suffering from an off-day, having also been branded as a “high-quality” star last season by Davies when amassing five goals and five assists from just 23 Blues appearances on loan.
Having such a creative force by his side will be music to the ears of Ducksch, who has also been showered with similarly high praise when being labelled as a talent capable of making “special moments” happen by former Bremen boss Ole Werner.
This really could be a devastating combo in the Championship, with their efforts combined potentially pulling the Blues into the promotion spots.
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Birmingham City could sign a bigger talent than Chuba Akpom by winning the services of this Premier League starlet.
Linked with Barcelona and Real Madrid after his U19 Euros heroics, AZ midfielder Kees Smit has set clear goals for his rapid rise.
Smit admits ambition to reach the top after starring at U19 Euros
AZ midfielder is linked with Real Madrid and Barcelona
Plans to complete the season before considering a move
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WHAT HAPPENED?
Smit has declared his ambition to "reach the top as quickly as possible" after a breakout summer saw him linked with Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona. The 18-year-old was speaking to ahead of his recent debut for the Netherlands U21 national team.
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Imago
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Smit's stock has risen dramatically following a sensational U19 European Championship campaign this past summer, where he captained the Netherlands to victory. His performances earned him both the Player of the Tournament award and the top scorer prize, catapulting him onto the radar of Europe's elite. Addressing the subsequent transfer speculation, Smit admitted the links to Real Madrid and Barcelona "made me proud." Having since cemented a starting role at AZ, he is now regarded as one of the most promising young talents in the Eredivisie.
During the Netherlands' victorious U19 European Championship campaign in Romania, Kees Smit achieved a rare double for a midfielder by being named the Player of the Tournament and also finishing as the competition's top scorer.
WHAT SMIT SAID
Speaking on the link of joining the La Liga giants, Smit said: "[The U19 Euros] helped with the attention. Not in Zakynthos [while on holiday], but I did see my name all over social media. I read I was on the radar of Real Madrid and Barcelona. That made me proud."
Smit himself is clear about his plan: "I talk about it at home sometimes, not every week. But I know what I want – a good season with AZ. After that we’ll see. I want to take a step forward, but it doesn’t have to be next year. Still, I do want to reach the top as soon as possible."
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WHAT NEXT FOR KEES SMIT?
Having made his Netherlands U21 debut against Israel earlier this week, Smit's focus will return to his club duties with AZ. The midfielder is aiming to build on his strong start to the Eredivisie season and solidify his place in the team.
After welcoming Sean Longstaff earlier this week, Leeds United are now reportedly set to sign another midfield star in a deal worth over £17m this summer.
Longstaff: Leeds is the "perfect" move
Becoming the Whites’ fifth signing of the summer, Longstaff will instantly add some much-needed Premier League know-how to Daniel Farke’s side ahead of next season. The former Newcastle midfielder won’t steal the same headlines as the likes of Jaka Bijol, but he could prove to be equally important at Elland Road.
Speaking for the first time since putting pen to paper, Longstaff told the official Leeds website: “I spoke to [Karl] Darlow straight away, but I have got to meet everyone. It seems like a really good group. I have heard great things.
“I think there is something to be said for a team that wants you and a club that really wants you. I think from the first time I spoke to Leeds, I sort of got a feeling that they really wanted me.
“It just fills you full of confidence and it just makes you want to repay those people. It is a massive, massive football club similar to Newcastle in a lot of ways.
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1 ByHenry Jackson Jul 19, 2025
“It was going to take a lot for us to leave Newcastle to be honest and I wasn’t just going to leave to go anywhere so it had to be the right place for me and my family and I think this is a perfect place. I got to watch pretty much all the games and see a team that was really exciting to watch, athletic, really good on the ball.
As pleased as they’ll be to have signed Longstaff, however, the 49ers aren’t stopping there. Reports are now indicating that they’ve instantly agreed another deal to sign their sixth fresh face of the summer and another midfield star.
Leeds agree deal to sign Anton Stach
As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Leeds are now set to sign Anton Stach after agreeing a deal worth more than €20m (£17m) with Bundesliga club Hoffenheim. The 6’4 midfielder is set to put pen to paper on a four-year contract, as those at Elland Road prepare to welcome another signing.
With plenty of Bundesliga experience to his name and even appearances in the Europa League last season, Stach represents another solid signing by all involved at Leeds.
It’s no surprise that the towering midfielder has earned impressive praise during his time in Germany, either. Former coach Florian Kohfeldt recalled Stach’s days as a youth player at Werder Bremen, claiming that he was already a talented player at a young age: “He didn’t have such an easy time here at Werder when he was at boarding school.
“He was a bit behind his peers physically when he was young, but in my opinion he already had a very strategic disposition in his game and was incredibly goal-oriented and ambitious.”
The Athletic’s Beren Cross has also heaped praise on Stach in reaction to the deal, sharing on X on Saturday: “Another giant, another 26-year-old, Leeds are finalising a transfer (in excess of £17.3m) for Anton Stach. A sixth new face and a real unit that played as a defensive midfielder and centre-back with Hoffenheim.”