West Ham United will need to do all they can to claim victory against Norwich City and cement their hopes of finishing in one of the Premier League’s European spots.
The Hammers were knocked out of the Europa League on Thursday at the semi-final stage after losing 3-1 on aggregate to Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt. David Moyes’ side now face another huge battle to secure European football next season by finishing in the top seven, and it begins with a trip to Norwich.
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The Canaries are already relegated which will be a boost to West Ham’s hopes, with Wolverhampton Wanderers securing a draw yesterday and now only two points behind the East Londoners.
You can forgive Moyes for prioritising the Europa League as it would have provided the club with Champions League football and a first European trophy for over two decades.
However, with full focus now on the remainder of the league campaign, here’s Football FanCast’s predicted starting line-up for the Hammers against Norwich…
We predict that the Hammers will make three changes with the obvious move seeing goalkeeper Łukasz Fabiański return between the sticks for the league encounter.
There will also be a return for Ben Johnson who will replace Vladimir Coufal at right wing-back who could be a more clinical threat offensively. When you compare both players, the Englishman comes out on top in quite a few areas.
He has a higher pass completion percentage than Coufal and also performs better when it comes to stopping dribblers with him tackling 15% more than the Czech.
Coufal moved to the London Stadium in 2020 and earns £27k-per-week. He has performed consistently well for the club, but at 29-years old and with his contract expiring next year, now is the time for the club to look ahead. After all, his side of the pitch has been described as a “problem” when he’s in the team this season.
The final change we expect Moyes to make sees Benrahma replace Lanzini in the front three. The Algerian is the third-highest scorer for the Hammers this season with nine goals, and will be hoping to reach double figures before the campaign ends.
Being a bigger threat in front of goal will give West Ham a chance to strengthen their goal difference against a weak Norwich defence who have conceded the second-most goals in the league in 2021/22.
The 26-year old has been labelled “exquisite” by former player Joe Cole and could be the difference-maker today.
IN other news: Moyes must finally unleash “magical” £17.5m West Ham monster, he’d terrify Norwich…
Wolves came from 2-0 down to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League this afternoon.
A quickfire brace in the second half from Romelu Lukaku gave the Blues a comfortable lead before Francisco Trincao halved the deficit with 11 minutes to go.
Bruno Lage’s men nicked an unlikely point through captain Conor Coady in the 97th minute to prevent a fourth consecutive defeat and prolong Chelsea’s woes at home.
The point keeps Wolves in the hunt for an unlikely European place, with the West Midlands outfit two points off seventh with three games to go.
Moreover, Lage may now have to hand more opportunities to 22-year-old January signing Chiquinho, who came off of the bench to make a stellar impact today.
Chiquinho saved the day for Wolves
The Portuguese winger played just 19 minutes against Chelsea but set up both of his side’s goals in just his seventh appearance for the Wolves first team.
Along with his assists, Chiquinho – who was previously labelled a “ridiculous talent” by The Athletic’s Tim Spiers – completed six out of seven passes at an 86% accuracy rate and completed three out of four dribbles (75% accuracy) whilst winning 71% of his duels.
While there was little defensive contribution with just one tackle, Lage would’ve brought the youngster on to make an impact in the final third, and the 22-year-old certainly did that.
Given the fact that Wolves hadn’t scored in any of their previous three matches, the Portuguese youngster’s impact was particularly impressive, with the West Midlands side seemingly headed for another defeat before he made his mark.
Having joined in January from Portuguese outfit Estoril for a minimal fee, it seemed as though it would take time for the winger to be integrated into Wolves’ plans.
However, with three under-23 appearances and now seven first-team matches, it appears as though Chiquinho is very much in the Wolves manager’s plans and could prove to be a serious bargain.
Regardless of what is in store for the winger in an Old Gold shirt in the future, he saved the day today against Chelsea.
AND in other news: Lage can finally axe “rubbish” Wolves liability by unleashing the “next Phil Foden”
Aaron Cresswell, Craig Dawson and Michail Antonio all struggled as West Ham United fell to defeat at the hands of Eintracht Frankfurt in the Europa League semi-final.
It wasn’t to be for the Hammers as David Moyes’ side succumbed to their Bundesliga opposition in Germany having lost the first leg 2-1 in east London a week earlier.
The Irons were still in the contest despite the damaging loss at the London Stadium, but the early dismissal of Cresswell following a VAR review was too big a blow to the West Ham hopes.
Midway through the first half, Rafael Borre opened the scoring before a frustrated Moyes was sent off having watched his side fail to break down their well-organised hosts.
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Albeit a spirited display throughout, we’ve taken a deep dive into the statistics and according to Sofascore, three Hammers, in particular, struggled to perform in Germany.
Cresswell 3.0/10
Perhaps a little harsh given that the experienced defender only lasted 19 minutes at the Deutsche Bank Park, however, Moyes would’ve been counting on the 32-year-old to stand up to be counted on such a momentous occasion.
Instead, Cresswell only had 22 touches, lost 2/2 of his duels and lost possession six times before being sent off.
Antonio 6.6/10
This was another below-par performance from the out of sorts striker as the 32-year-old struggled to impact the attacking prowess of the 10-men Irons, albeit with limit service at times.
Antonio lost the ball on 17 occasions, came out second best on 11 duels and only had 34 touches despite lasting 90 minutes.
Dawson 6.7/10
So often the bedrock of West Ham’s defensive solidity, the experienced Dawson lacked the required composure in a hostile atmosphere.
The 32-year-old – whose birthday it is today – lost 4/5 aerial duels, gave away the ball 12 times and misplaced ten passes as Moyes’ men were eliminated at the final hurdle before a trip to Seville.
In other news: ‘Something special’ – Journalist says ‘massive player’ could be tempted to join West Ham, find out more here.
Leeds United correspondent Beren Cross has provided a positive injury update regarding star striker Patrick Bamford.
The Lowdown: Bamford’s season to forget
Bamford has managed just seven starts in 2021/22 due to ankle, hamstring and foot problems, with the 28-year-old completing 90 minutes on just four occasions.
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He netted 17 times last season compared to just two goals during the current campaign, with his latest setback coming last month.
The forward ruptured his plantar fascia against Wolves on March 18, but it looks as if he is making positive progress ahead of a return prior to the end of the season.
The Latest: Cross shares Thorp Arch update
Jesse Marsch has previously stated that he is ‘optimistic’ Bamford would be able to return for the final two games against Brighton and Brentford, fixtures which could be huge in the club’s attempts to avoid the drop.
Cross shared a story regarding Bamford on Wednesday morning, suggesting he ‘is due out on the pitches again this week’, describing a return to the training ground as the ‘breath of fresh air’ Marsch needs.
The Verdict: Fingers crossed
Hopefully, Leeds will manage to pick up some unlikely points over their next three games with Manchester City, Arsenal and Chelsea, three of the current top four, to take them close to the magic 40-point mark.
They currently have a five-point gap over Everton and are three points clear of Burnley, so there’s every chance Leeds will still need something against Brighton and Brentford.
Bamford could well be involved if that is the case, and it looks as if he is on track for a May 15 return, should he take to the Thorp Arch training pitches over the coming days.
In other news: Radz and 49ers will now reward Marsch if he keeps Leeds up by moving for 29-goal forward.
There are plenty of reasons for Chelsea fans to be very optimistic at the moment.
Yes, the performances have been a little inconsistent, and the transfers haven’t all worked out, but Enzo Maresca has a squad full of incredible players.
For example, Moises Caicedo, Cole Palmer, and even Reece James, now that he has overcome his injury problems, can all be counted among the best in the world in their respective positions.
Moreover, there is now another gem in the side who could surpass them all to become the outright best in the world.
Reece James' resurgence
So, the first thing to say is that nobody worth listening to has ever questioned James’ innate ability, nor his place among the best full-backs in world football on that ability alone.
Chalkboard
Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.
However, as the saying goes, availability is the best ability, and for a significant portion of the last few years, that has been something that has gone against him.
For example, while he managed to make 26 league appearances in the 21/22 season, he made just 45 over the following three campaigns.
This inability to remain fit and make a significant number of appearances every year was something often held against him when it came down to conversations over who the best right-back was in the country.
However, so far this season has been a different story entirely, as he has not missed a single match due to injury and has played all 11 league games, seven from the start.
In addition to simply being present, the Englishman has also once again reminded rival fans that, at his best, he is capable of things most full-backs couldn’t even dream of doing.
For example, he already has three goal involvements to his name, along with some seriously impressive underlying numbers.
Total Passing Distance
1163.65
Top 1%
Pass Completion % (Short)
94.9%
Top 1%
Passes Completed (Medium)
28.05
Top 1%
xA: Expected Assists
0.19
Top 1%
Passes into Final Third
6.35
Top 1%
Interceptions
1.90
Top 1%
Touches (Mid 3rd)
45.57
Top 1%
Goals + Assists
0.38
Top 4%
xAG: Exp. Assisted Goals
0.23
Top 4%
Progressive Passes
6.60
Top 4%
Passes Completed
65.75
Top 4%
Passes Attempted
77.43
Top 4%
Passes Attempted (Medium)
31.61
Top 4%
Passes Completed (Long)
6.09
Top 4%
Live-ball Passes
63.85
Top 4%
Through Balls
0.51
Top 4%
Switches
0.63
Top 4%
Corner Kicks
2.79
Top 4%
SCA (Dead-ball Pass)
0.89
Top 4%
SCA (Defensive Action)
0.13
Top 4%
Touches
87.84
Top 4%
Touches (Live-Ball)
87.84
Top 4%
Carries
51.41
Top 4%
According to FBref, he ranks in the top 1% of full-backs for total passing distance, expected assists, passes into the final third and interceptions, the top 4% for goals plus assists and more, all per 90.
In all, now that he’s staying fit, it’s undeniable that James is one of the best right-backs in the world, and if that isn’t enough, another young talent Chelsea have signed looks like he could become one of the best players in the world outright.
Chelsea's future world-beater
The likes of Caicedo and Palmer might be pushing for the title of best in the world, but based on raw talent and what those in the know say about him, Dastan Satpayev could surpass both.
Chelsea signed the incredibly exciting prospect from the Kazakhstani side Kairat Almaty in February of this year for a fee of around €4m, which is about £3.5m.
Yet, as he’s still just 17 years old, he is not allowed to join up with the club until next season.
The Kazakh wonderkid may not be particularly well-known to fans in England, but he is regarded by many as a seriously significant prospect.
For example, one analyst with extensive knowledge of Kazakhstani football has been bold enough to describe the teenager as “a future Ballon d’Or winner.”
Yet, if that wasn’t encouraging enough, he has also been dubbed “a future rival to Lamine Yamal,” or in other words, someone who will vie for the title of the world’s best as he gets older.
With that said, what about him has people so excited? First of all, despite turning 17 in the summer, the dynamic forward made 29 first-team appearances last season, totalling 2081 minutes, in which he scored 15 goals and provided seven assists.
That comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.31 games, or every 94.59 minutes, which would be an incredible rate of return for a seasoned veteran.
Then, this season he has already made 11 appearances in the Champions League, seven of which were in the qualifying rounds and the other four in the competition proper.
In other words, the youngster is not only producing in the league but is also gaining a tremendous amount of experience in club football’s biggest competition.
Ultimately, it is early on in his career, but Satpayev is already looking like an excellent player, and if those in the know are right, he could become the world’s best at Chelsea.
Chelsea join Daniel Munoz race as Crystal Palace star reveals true "dream" move
Leeds United are already looking ahead to the January transfer window and could seek to target an international star who will currently be available for free in 2026.
Leeds trying to move on after transfer frustration
Daniel Farke has acknowledged that the Whites could’ve done more in the window as they look to stay in the Premier League, albeit the German coach will have to play with the cards he has at his disposal for the time being after a heartbreaking late defeat at Fulham on Saturday afternoon courtesy of a bizarre Gabriel Gudmundsson own goal.
Like any newly-promoted side, home form and being able to withstand barrages while on the road from elite outfits will be key to their chances of survival. Either way, the former Norwich City boss has admitted he will need to cope with the ‘reality’ of their situation.
He stated via The Independent on their transfer dealings: “I’ve got a few principles with how I work and this is crucial for me. One principle is I like openness and transparency. I like to name it how I see it.
“The second principle is once a transfer window is closed and I can’t influence things anymore, you won’t hear one bad word or comment from me in any way. I’m pretty fortunate to be allowed to work in the business. My job is to adapt to the reality and work with what I’ve got.”
Failed late Leeds moves for Rangers midfielder Nico Raskin, among others, have left the Whites a little light for Farke’s liking, but that is the way of the window, and he isn’t the only top-flight manager in that situation.
Ultimately, time is the greatest healer and January isn’t a million miles away, which could see movement emerge regarding another star who was heavily pursued during the summer.
Leeds United plan move to sign Fulham's Harry Wilson
According to Football Insider, Leeds are planning a renewed move to sign Fulham winger Harry Wilson in January after missing out on the Wales international in the final hours of the summer window.
Encouragingly, the £55,000 per week earner is out of contract in 2026 and the Whites are keeping a close eye on his situation, while the Cottagers may be willing to sell him should he fail to agree an extention over the next few months.
Leeds are brewing a homegrown Wilson in “very talented” 18-year-old star
Leeds United are brewing their very own Harry Wilson in this 18-year-old sensation.
ByKelan Sarson Sep 13, 2025
Labelled “outstanding” by Michael Beale, Wilson, who shares the Unique Sports Group agency with Leeds goalkeeper Karl Darlow, per Transfermarkt, scored six times in 27 appearances last term and has featured in all of Fulham’s matches so far in 2025/26, though is yet to get off the mark.
Clearly, Farke has had to deal with frustration at Elland Road in his mission to land key targets, but the chance to achieve retribution in pursuit of a player who could potentially arrive on a cut-price agreement or for free next year may sweeten his set of circumstances.
Sunderland are on the hunt for some late deals and have submitted an enticing proposal to land a creative operator in the engine room, according to a report.
Sunderland continue mission to recruit late arrivals
The Black Cats have made quite the impression in the transfer window and don’t look to be done yet as they aim to give themselves a fighting chance of Premier League survival.
Aside from recruitment, Regis Le Bris made it clear that his side’s home form over the coming months will be critical if they are to stay in the top-flight for the foreseeable future, urging his players to feed off the energy of a raucous support.
Sunderland managerRegisLeBrisapplauds fans after the match
He stated: “They are a key pillar of our identity. Sunderland is made with this support. If we don’t use it properly then it doesn’t make sense. If our fans recognise this identity, the willingness, the togetherness – they are happier when we win and that is fair, but we know this won’t be possible every time. If we are connected with this ambition and commitment, it will be a massive strength for us.”
Of course, enticing stars to play in front of faithful supporters is half the battle, though it appears they are doing a fine job, given Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi is set to join Sunderland in the coming days.
Furthermore, Juventus star Lloyd Kelly has been linked with a surprise move to Wearside, though they will also face competition from Crystal Palace for the former Newcastle United man.
Sunderland make transfer offer for £50,000-a-week World Cup semi-finalist
The Black Cats are on fire this summer.
ByHenry Jackson Aug 29, 2025
Driving some hard bargains between now and Monday will be essential for Sunderland to maximise strength in depth, and they could now be set to complete another landmark capture if reports are to be believed.
Sunderland submit considerable Joey Veerman bid
According to De Telegraaf via Transfer Feed, Sunderland have submitted a bid worth over £26 million for PSV Eindhoven midfielder Joey Veerman and the Netherlands international could now be in line for a late move to the Stadium of Light.
In response, the Eredivisie outfit have identified Anderlecht star Mario Stroeykens as a replacement that they want to bring in urgently due to the time of the window.
Offering a creative presence in the engine room, Veerman fashioned 71 chances on league duty for his teammates last term, per Fotmob, and netted once, alongside providing 12 assists in 40 appearances.
Continuing on a similar path, he has struck once and laid on two more efforts inside three outings across 2025/26, illustrating a level of vision that would help Sunderland carve out opportunities in the top-flight.
With a deal looking somewhat likely, Veerman would add to a new-look midfield at the Stadium of Light this summer that already includes the likes of Habib Diarra and Noah Sadiki, albeit it may be intriguing to see exactly where he fits in.
Liverpool fans have been treated to an incredible year under the wing of Arne Slot, and it’s only going to get better, with FSG making serious moves in the overtures of the summer transfer window.
A deal for Jeremie Frimpong is being finalised, and the Bayer Leverkusen right-sider will join as Trent Alexander-Arnold’s ostensible replacement.
Trent Alexander-Arnold
But it’s another of a Werkself persuasion who is slated to be the true heir to Trent’s playmaking position. Indeed, in a saga moving faster than Mohamed Salah in his heyday, Liverpool are now clear favourites to sign Florian Wirtz, who has rejected Bayern Munich in favour of a move to Anfield this summer.
With Manchester City previously withdrawing from consideration (perhaps because they knew he favoured Merseyside?), everything is in place for sporting director Richard Hughes to finalise a deal.
It would be a record signing for Liverpool, but it’s one which makes a whole lot of sense.
Why Liverpool need Florian Wirtz
A deal for Wirtz is almost done, as per transfer guru Fabrizio Romano. Liverpool won the Premier League this season, but they aren’t resting on their laurels.
Though Slot’s system still needs a reliable and out-and-out striker, this is a stunning coup that signals a statement of intent. Bayern and Man City both wanted Wirtz, but he chose Anfield.
And what a player. As per FBref, the 22-year-old ranks among the top 6% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues this season for goal contributions, the top 7% for shot-creating actions and progressive passes and the top 4% for successful take-ons per 90.
His ability to manipulate space and wrongfoot opponents is second to none; moreover, Wirtz is remarkably switched on, always making the right call and demonstrating precision through his creativity and his ball-striking ability.
This season alone, Wirtz has scored 16 goals and provided 15 assists across all competitions for Leverkusen. Last term, he spearheaded an invincible Bundesliga triumph, earning the division’s Player of the Season award; he won the DFB-Pokal too.
He’s the real deal, all right, having been hailed as a “generational talent” by sports media professional Cristian Nyari. And Liverpool might even be gearing up to partner him with a thriving centre-forward.
Liverpool considering move for LaLiga star
As per Spanish sources, Liverpool are battling Bayern Munich for yet another high-profile signing, with the two powerhouses joining Arsenal in a bid to sign Julian Alvarez.
The Argentina star has been immense since joining Atletico Madrid last summer, and while the La Liga giants don’t want to sell, they would be tempted by offers reaching toward the €100m (£85m) mark.
Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez
It’s too early to say which direction this story will take in the coming weeks, but Liverpool bosses may feel they have a trump card in Darwin Nunez, a striker they hope to offload this summer and a player who has been reported to be on Los Colchoneros’ radar.
The report claims that the Reds are one of the clubs considering a move to sign the World Cup-winning marksman, and that they would be interested in including Nunez as part of a deal for the striker.
What Julian Alvarez would bring to Liverpool
Liverpool supporters know Alvarez well, for he won a shedload of silverware across two seasons with Manchester City before leaving for Atletico Madrid in a whopping £82m deal last summer.
Julian Alvarez for Manchester City.
That figure raised a few eyebrows, but Diego Simeone will certainly feel he has received bang for his buck after the Argentine’s prolific season, surpassing any of his individual success at the Etihad Stadium.
Alvarez’s fine-tuned clinical edge could actually see him leap over Wirtz as Liverpool’s most important signing of the summer, especially when considering the issues the club have been beset with at number nine this term, Nunez and Diogo Jota’s troubles leading Luis Diaz into a makeshift centre-forward role.
River Plate
122
54
31
Manchester City
103
36
19
Atletico Madrid
53
29
6
Argentina
44
12
33
Refocused into more of a goalscoring force than his times in England, Alvarez has been described as “the best forward in the world” this season by journalist Roy Nemer, having indeed reached the verge of the 30-goal mark in his first year in Spain.
Alvarez might be a prolific player, but that’s not why Liverpool have a vested interest, of course. As per FBref, the 5 foot 8 striker ranks among the top 6% of positional peers across Europe this season for passes attempted and shot-creating actions, the top 7% for progressive passes, and the top 8% for progressive carries per 90.
This completeness and dynamism suggest Alvarez would be the perfect addition to Slot’s ranks, the perfect upgrade at number nine. He’s considered by FBref’s data-driven analytics to be a comparable player to Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, and would be far cheaper at that.
Securing the 25-year-old’s signature alongside Wirtz’s would represent a staggering coup for Liverpool, but given the need for a new striker, he would indeed prove the standout, not just a new goalscorer but a multi-faceted force to be reckoned with.
Alvarez has scored 17 goals in La Liga this season, and he has only missed seven big chances, as per Sofascore, bespeaking his newfound skill as an elite marksman.
Wirtz is going to be a stunning acquisition, for sure, but Liverpool are already relatively well stocked in their attacking midfield area, whereas up front there is a gaping hole for a reliable marksman.
If FSG manage to pull this one off after swiping Germany’s prized playmaker from the Bundesliga, beating Bayern to the finish line on both occasions, it speaks highly of Michael Edwards’ vision and Liverpool’s potential over the coming years.
Fans have rejoiced over the triumph in the Premier League this season, but you might say that success has merely scratched the surface of what this team is capable of.
Open to leaving: Liverpool “machine” would be finished if FSG sign Wirtz
Liverpool are going punch-for-punch with Bayern Munich in the fight to sign Florian Wirtz.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is personally keen on the north Londoners signing a star alternative to club captain Martin Odegaard this summer, and one who has been scoring for fun on the continent this season.
Mikel Arteta makes Andrea Berta claim amid Arsenal rift reports
The arrival of new sporting director Andrea Berta has dominated headlines since it was announced in late March.
Arsenal offered "world class" Sesko and Gyokeres alternative by unique clause
Andrea Berta has a brand-new striker opportunity.
ByEmilio Galantini May 17, 2025
Berta, following 12 successful years working with Atlético Madrid, is set to have a key influence when it comes to Arsenal’s recruitment plans, but there have already been some reports of rifts between the Italian and Arteta.
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
One example of this is their reported Arsenal dispute over whether to move for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko or Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, but Arteta is adamant that the pair will have a productive working relationship.
“Very good, they’re two very completely different personalities, characters and backgrounds,” said Arteta on the difference between Berta and Edu.
“But he’s someone who’s very driven and very clear in his ideas, vision and how we want to achieve it, and very supportive of everything that’s been done here, with a lot of people who have contributed massively to the position that we are today as a club.
“The squad that we have, the players and the staff that we have, and he’s ready to add value and make us better. That’s the reason why we’ve chosen him to be here with us.”
When asked if the manager and Berta are working on the same page when it comes to Arsenal transfers, Arteta replied: “On what we have to do, yes.”
The Gunners boss will have his own ideas on how to improve his squad, and he is set to work in tandem with Berta ahead of a hopefully more fruitful Premier League title challenge next season.
Mikel Arteta keen on signing Oihan Sancet for Arsenal
According to reports from Spain, Athletic Bilbao’s attacking midfield sensation, Oihan Sancet, is attracting the tactician’s personal attention.
The Spaniard has marked himself out as one of Ernesto Valverde’s standout stars, scoring 17 goals in all competitions, and Arsenal are one of a few teams apparently looking at him as a serious option.
It is now believed that Arteta is personally keen on an Arsenal move for Sancet, who could leave Bilbao for the value of his £67 million release clause, and views the 25-year-old as an “ideal link” between his midfield and forward line.
Man United and Aston Villa are also interested in a move for the Spain midfielder, so a move to the Premier League appears to be an option.
Given Sancet’s exceptional form, not to mention reports they could lose Nico Williams this summer, we believe Bilbao will be highly unlikely to let Sancet leave for much less than the value of his clause.
Celtic are thriving on the field under Brendan Rodgers, but they may now be set for an unexpected turn of events behind the scenes following recent developments.
Brendan Rodgers aims to maintain Celtic winning culture
Evaluating the landscape of Scottish football, Celtic find themselves head and shoulders above the rest as they close in on another domestic treble.
Brendan Rodgers knows his side only need to defeat Aberdeen at Hampden later this month to achieve that feat, while he is also the third-most successful manager in the club’s illustrious history behind Willie Maley and Jock Stein.
Celtic managerBrendanRodgerscelebrates after winning the League Cup
However, there has been some speculation surrounding the Celtic boss as he heads into the final year of his contract at Parkhead with little to no update on a potential extension.
Like any manager worth his salt, Rodgers wants full backing from the Hoops hierarchy before his side take on the challenge of facing whoever they draw in the final round of Champions League qualifying.
Citing the need for signings, Celtic are very interested in Red Star Belgrade defender Veljko Milosavljevic, potentially laying down a marker with regard to what supporters can expect from their club in the summer market.
Fewer minutes than Nawrocki: Celtic must axe flop who's "not good enough"
Celtic must finally part ways with this player who has played fewer minutes than Maik Nawrocki.
ByDan Emery May 9, 2025
Stability at Parkhead has led to a steady stream of success. That hasn’t just come from the manager, but the rank and file department members that exist below his sphere of influence.
Nevertheless, everyone at one point will look to strike out on their own should the opportunity present itself. That is just the reality of career progression in the cold light of day.
With that in mind, Celtic could face a fight to hold onto one of their trusted coaches after the club were approached over his availability, per recent developments.
Swansea City approach Celtic to land Darren O'Dea
According to Sky Sports journalist Anthony Joseph on X, Swansea City have approached Celtic as they look to appoint Darren O’Dea as their assistant manager following Alan Sheehan’s appointment as head coach at the Swansea.com Stadium.
Former Republic of Ireland international O’Dea is currently the Bhoys’ Professional Player Pathway Manager, though he could now be set to swap Glasgow for the EFL Championship side if all parties agree on a deal.
O’Dea has also managed Celtic’s B Team in conjunction with Stephen McManus, and his departure may come as something of a surprise despite his ambitions of entering the dugout at senior level.
Either way, Hoops fans and figures from inside the club will wish him well if he were to take up Swansea on their offer, given his reputation as a bright young coach who has worked his way up the Lennoxtown ranks.