Premier League news

The life of a professional footballer is a dream for most people. You get paid handsomely to play the most popular sport in the world. The fame and notoriety are to die for. Yet even this high of highs isn't enough to completely satisfy the one percent who actually make it to the top of the game, and Nicklas Bendtner is walking, talking proof of that.

After Chelsea's hard-fought Carabao Cup win in Cardiff on Tuesday, Enzo Maresca went to applaud the travelling support. They responded by singing the Italian's name. At most clubs, there would be nothing remotely remarkable about a pretty perfunctory display of mutual affection between a fan base and a trophy-winning manager. Chelsea are not most clubs, though.

Viktor Gyokeres has capped a remarkable year by being crowned Sweden’s best striker for the third season running, edging out Liverpool’s Alexander Isak for the honour. Following his high-profile move to Arsenal, the 26-year-old reflected on an "eventful year" that included trophies in Portugal, a major summer transfer and personal recognition back home.

Manchester United have reportedly softened their stance on Kobbie Mainoo ahead of the January transfer window, with the club now prepared to listen to offers after previously shutting down all interest. While Ruben Amorim still wants to keep the midfielder at Old Trafford, reduced game time and growing outside noise mean United are no longer ruling anything out.

Chelsea have been offered some advice on potential signings ahead of the January transfer window. Enzo Maresca's side spent heavily once again in the summer but currently sit down in fourth place in the Premier League table and already eight points behind current leaders Arsenal. The Blues have been told to strengthen their defence and that it may be wise to bring a familiar face back.

Gabriel Jesus has insisted he wants to stay at Arsenal and fight for his future, sending a clear message to Mikel Arteta amid speculation over his long-term role and future at the club. The Brazilian says he has unfinished business in north London, stressing his desire to win titles and help “wake up the sleeping giant” rather than seek a move elsewhere.

Kobbie Mainoo is currently in a challenging situation at Manchester United, grappling with a lack of consistent playing time under head coach Ruben Amorim this season, a dynamic made more public by a controversial t-shirt display from his half-brother. But he has been urged to focus on football and prove everyone wrong, rather than leave the club on loan in January, by club legend Roy Keane.

Leandro Trossard has been in brilliant form for Arsenal this season, establishing himself as a vital and often decisive presence in Mikel Arteta’s team. His intelligence and goal involvements have elevated the team's performances and helped maintain their title challenge, earning him high praise from an Arsenal legend, who has also claimed the Belgium international has more to offer.

Manchester United are reportedly preparing to go all out for Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo in January and believe they have a genuine chance of beating rivals Manchester City to his signature. With the winger’s £65 million ($87m) release clause about to come into play and amid uncertainty surrounding Pep Guardiola’s future, the Red Devils sense an opportunity to beat their city rivals to the punch.

Arsenal’s injury problems have deepened after Kai Havertz suffered a frustrating setback in his recovery, delaying his long-awaited return until mid-January. The German forward had been just one week away from rejoining the Gunners' matchday squad before suffering yet another setback in training, dealing Mikel Arteta another blow during a congested title run-in.

Perceived refereeing injustices have been a recurring theme for Manchester United this season, drawing strong reactions from the club's management, players, and pundits. Such is the resentment felt at Old Trafford the club now reportedly plan to formalise their grievances with the head of the referees' governing body PGMOL, Howard Webb in a key meeting.

The Premier League title race is tighter than last year where Liverpool secured the title with four games to spare. Several teams are vying for the top spots, a more protracted three-way battle for the trophy on the cards. Arsenal lead the race, with Manchester City hot on their tail, and Gunners legend Thierry Henry has delivered his verdict on the stars of the season so far.

GOAL U.S. writers take a look at some of the biggest storylines in European soccer, including Mo Salah's future, Vinicius Jr's exit rumors, and the Premier League title race

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has admitted there are “worrying signs” over Tino Livramento’s fitness after the full-back was forced off with a knee problem in midweek. With the Magpies' defensive options already stretched, the 23-year-old is now a major doubt to face Chelsea, casting uncertainty over Howe’s plans for the crucial Premier League clash.

Aston Villa are keeping a close watch on Brennan Johnson’s situation at Tottenham Hotspur, with the Midlands club expected to weigh up a potential move should the Wales international become available in 2026. While no formal approach has been made, TEAMtalk reports that Villa would be prepared to assess a deal if Spurs show a genuine willingness to part ways with a player who has slipped down the pecking order under Thomas Frank.

Mohamed Salah’s struggles at Liverpool, which led to him aiming an explosive outburst in the Reds’ direction, are being blamed on the summer departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold. Dean Saunders has explained to GOAL why the ‘Egyptian King’ at Anfield has found the going tough during the 2025-26 campaign and ultimately felt the need to air his grievances in public.

Being at the summit of the standings on December 25 is considered a good omen in English football, but what does history tell us about that cliché?