In one of the dullest Manchester Derbies in recent memory, Manchester United were held to a 0-0 draw by Manchester City at a sunny Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon. Neither side had many chances of note, both opting for a more passive approach, helping them to earn a point each.

There were not many chances of note across the game. Omar Marmoush forced United goalkeeper Andre Onana into a couple of saves in the second half, first with a free kick, followed by a superbly struck volley.

For United, it was probably second-half substitute Joshua Zirkzee who came closest to finding the back of the net. He looked to hook Patrick Dorgu’s cross into the back of the City net, but Ederson made a sharp save from close range.

The stats from Sofascore reflect just how drab of an affair it was. United had 13 shots, but just two on target, and had an expected goals tally of 0.92xG. As for City, they had just nine shots but got five of those on target and had a 0.49xG.

It was not a classic, as far as Manchester Derbies go. However, there was still a standout player on the pitch, who looked a class above anyone else. That man was United captain Bruno Fernandes.

Fernandes’ stats vs. Man City

As you might expect, Fernandes was the one player on the pitch who looked like he would make something happen. The man who is lovingly dubbed “Portuguese Magnifico” by United fans continued his excellent form at Old Trafford.

If there was one word to sum up that Fernandes performance, it would be influential. The Red Devils captain had 70 touches and completed 93% of his passes, and created three chances, more than any other player on the pitch.

He was everywhere, starting the game as a number ten before dropping into the more familiar number eight role that he has played in recent weeks. Yet, there was not one part of the game that Fernandes did not feel involved.

Samuel Luckhurst, United correspondent for The Manchester Evening News, rated Fernandes’ performance highly. He gave the Red Devils skipper a 7/10 and explained that he was ‘as reliably creative as ever’. Classic Fernandes.

It was a memorable performance for United’s number eight in an otherwise forgettable Manchester Derby. However, he was not the only United player who impressed against their cross-city rivals.

The Man Utd star who's making himself undroppable

What an impressive performance it was from Leny Yoro against the reigning Premier League champions. The young French defender was calm and composed at the back, helping to keep City’s attackers at bay.

Yoro’s stats from the game show just how well he performed in his first Manchester Derby at Old Trafford. The Frenchman had 54 touches of the ball, completing 89% of his passes. He also showed excellent reading of the game, making three interceptions.

Minutes

90

Touches

54

Pass accuracy

89%

Passes completed

39/44

Interceptions

3

Clearances

1

Accuract long balls

1

Luckhurst was certainly impressed with the United number 15’s day at the office. Just as he did with Fernandes, the journalist gave Yoro a 7/10 for his efforts, explaining he ‘had little trouble from City’ on the left of United’s back three.

This performance was really a continuation of excellent form from the youngster. According to Statman Dave, he has now gone 12 games in all competitions without being dribbled past, showing just how tough he is to get past.

In many ways, Yoro has become undroppable for Ruben Amorim, and was described as a “key” member of the United side by Dev Bajwa, football content creator and United fan. He is making that left centre-back role his own and has clearly become a problem for many attackers, as the stats show.

It is certainly encouraging for the Red Devils that Yoro is establishing himself as a certain starter in this side. His recent form is something to get excited about, and he will surely have a vital role to play in the remainder of United’s season.

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A European club now wants to make contact with a £230,000-a-week Manchester City player over a possible move this summer, according to a new report.

Kovacic confident Man City can achieve Champions League spot

The Blues had to settle for a point on Sunday afternoon against arch-rivals Manchester United, as neither side did enough to claim all three points. The Red Devils may believe they had the better of the chances as Pep Guardiola’s side struggled to gain control in the second half, but a draw was a just result.

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The point for City leaves them in fifth spot on 52 points, a point behind Chelsea and five behind Nottingham Forest. But a Newcastle United win against Leicester City would see the Blues slip out of the top five.

Despite this, midfielder Mateo Kovacic is still confident that they can secure Champions League football for next season: “We always go for the win, but we also had to be careful not to lose it because we are in a battle for the Champions League, and we need points. We could have done more going forward and creating more, but it was tough with the small spaces. We move on to the next games.

“We have to have the same mindset for the Champions League [as going for the title] because it is important that Man City are in the competition next season.

“It will be tough until the end, because there are many teams that fight for the top four, and no game in the Premier League is easy. But we are confident that we can achieve it.”

Galatasaray want to sign Man City's İlkay Gündoğan

It is expected to be a busy summer at the Etihad after Kevin De Bruyne confirmed his departure, and according to Fanatik, relayed by Sport Witness, Galatasaray want to sign Man City’s Ilkay Gundogan this summer.

The German international rejoined the Blues last summer from Barcelona, signing a one-year deal with the option of a further 12 months. However, Gundogan is expected to leave the Etihad this summer, and the Turkish giants are keen on securing a deal.

It claims that Galatasaray’s president Dursun Özbek, as well as other leaders, are looking to use the help of their sponsors and bring Gundogan as well as his teammate Kevin De Bruyne to Turkey at the end of the season.

Galatasaray, 24 time league champions in Turkey, are now expected to make contact with the agent of Gundogan in the ‘coming days’ as they look to beat any other interested teams and sign the midfielder on a free transfer.

Apps

346

Goals

62

Assists

39

The 34-year-old, who earns £230,000 a week at the Etihad, has played 27 games in the Premier League this season, 19 of which he has started, but he has failed to have the same impact he had in front of goal in the season before he left. In fact, Gundogan’s age looks to have caught up to him, and therefore, it makes sense for Pep to consider letting the midfielder leave for a second time round.

Burnley are fighting for promotion to the Premier League and Scott Parker has wasted no time in profiling targets ahead of the summer window, per reports.

Burnley edge ahead of Championship title rivals

Following a chaotic afternoon of Championship action, Burnley emerged at the summit following a vital 2-1 victory over Coventry City on Saturday courtesy of a double from Jaidon Anthony.

Sheffield United’s unexpected slip-up at Oxford United and Leeds United’s dropped points on their visit to Luton Town have played into the Clarets’ hands, with promotion specialist Scott Parker licking his lips at the remaining fixture schedule.

Nevertheless, Burnley also have an eye on next season and potential recruits once the window opens for business. Per reports, out-of-contract Rangers midfielder Tom Lawrence could move to Turf Moor on a free transfer.

Despite the Clarets’ appeal as a serious promotion candidate, West Bromwich Albion, Middlesbrough, Coventry City and Wrexham are among other destinations on the table for the Wales international.

Burnley’s final six Championship fixtures

Derby County (A)

Pride Park

Norwich City (H)

Turf Moor

Watford (A)

Vicarage Road

Sheffield United (H)

Turf Moor

QPR (A)

Loftus Road

Millwall (H)

Turf Moor

On the same token, West Brom star Grady Diangana is on Burnley’s radar and they have been urged to put forward a proposal for the versatile attacker by David Prutton.

Ultimately, any concrete information on high-profile targets will need to wait until the summer. Parker’s men are in a good position with the end of the campaign near, but there is plenty of work to do before celebratory champagne can be cracked open at Turf Moor.

Either way, Burnley are making tracks to lure a rising EFL star to Lancashire despite competition from Premier League clubs for his signature, per recent developments.

Burnley eyeing Bristol Rovers midfielder Kofi Shaw

According to reliable reporter Alan Nixon via The 72, Burnley are eyeing a move to sign Bristol Rovers midfielder Kofi Shaw alongside Premier League duo Brighton & Hove Albion and Brentford.

Born in 2006, the 18-year-old has made ten appearances for the Gas this campaign, while his loan spell at Yeovil Town earlier on yielded two goals and an assist.

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Versatile by nature, the youngster is capable of playing across various roles in the engine room, on either flank or as a foil for the main striker.

Labelled “a clever player” by boss Inigo Calderon, he would likely be deemed as one for the future at Turf Moor, but stockpiling homegrown talent for years to come is a strategy that could save millions down the line if worked correctly.

It remains to be seen the sort of fee he would be available for if Burnley do follow up on their initial interest. One imagines he could be attainable for a relatively inexpensive fee, though only time will tell if a deal is to come to fruition.

Manchester United fell heavily by the wayside under Erik ten Hag, and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer before him; Jose Mourinho, previously, left hot under the collar after his progress unravelled like a spool of string in the wind.

Ruben Amorim has suffered a turbulent time at Old Trafford since replacing his hard-pressed predecessor, but he’s starting to turn a corner. His tactics are sinking in.

Just imagine how high the Portuguese tactician could reach should INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe equip him with a perfect spread of new signings this summer.

However, United have their financial difficulties and will need to sell in order to buy. Signing a striker is among the priorities for the Red Devils, but luckily, neither of Amorim’s recognised centre-forwards have proved they deserve a star role in the years to come at the Theatre of Dreams.

Man United's striking woes

United claimed a point in Sunday’s Manchester derby, which was very much emblematic of the issues presented to both neighbours right now.

Chiefly, the stalemate highlighted glaring deficiencies in attack, especially for the hosts’ part. Rasmus Hojlund toiled once again, replaced by Joshua Zirkzee in the second half. The Dutchman, who was signed from Bologna last summer for £36.5m, “offers a lot more” than his teammate, according to The United Stand’s Beth Tucker.

Even so, he’s not the long-term solution as the star focal frontman.

Hojlund & Zirkzee vs Man City (0-0)

Match Stats

Hojlund

Zirkzee

Minutes played

71′

19′

Goals

0

0

Assists

0

0

Touches

15

11

Shots (on target)

0 (0)

2 (1)

Accurate passes

7/9 (78%)

4/6 (67%)

Key passes

0

0

Dribbles

0/0

0/0

Duels won

1/4

1/2

Data via Sofascore

Hojlund, Man United’s £72m number nine, was a non-entity once again. At least Zirkzee, replacing him with just under 20 minutes left to play, sought to make things happen, sought to take some initiative.

With just three goals from 26 Premier League appearances this season, Hojlund, who is 22, is apt for sale this summer, especially when considering that he’s averaging 0.8 shots per game.

How much Man United could recoup for a player like Hojlund, who is clearly talented but has endured a torrid time of it this year, remains to be seen.

However, the Dane will need to part with his red shirt if things are going to improve. United, for that matter, have identified the perfect replacement for Hojlund, and only by selling him will they be able to pounce.

INEOS make bid for new striker

As per Spanish sources, Man United are very much in the running for Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres, who has been one of the most prolific players in Europe over the past couple of years.

The Athletic confirmed last week that Arsenal have bumped him up to the top of their wish-list given Newcastle United are staying firm on their £150m valuation of Alexander Isak, but INEOS will hope that Amorim’s connection with the Portugal champions could see a bid from United hold sway.

Gyokeres, 25, is the gold standard, and the Red Devils know it. In fact, the report suggests that they have already offered a €75m (£64m) figure to take him off Sporting’s hands and reunite him with his former gaffer, albeit with Chelsea in the same boat.

Why Man United should sign Viktor Gyokeres

For what it’s worth, former Tottenham star Rafael van der Vaart remarked that Gyokeres is “a better version of Haaland,” owing to his more complete and dynamic skill set.

The data, in fairness, takes a step toward backing such an audacious claim up. As per FBref, Gyokeres ranks among the top 2% of forwards across Europe over the past year for goals scored, the top 5% for pass completion and shot-creating actions and the top 4% for progressive carries per 90.

So then, you see why he’s such a covetous man right now. Given that he fronted Amorim’s system at Sporting, posted 66 goals and 23 assists across just 68 matches for the young manager, you begin to see why INEOS are so desperate to bring him over to Manchester this year.

Such a powerful, precise and imposing number nine must leave Bruno Fernandes giddy at the thought of playing with him. Man United’s skipper, the all-inspiring talisman and all-embracing leader, has been the brightest light to emerge from a dreary campaign, popping up with big moments and providing creative support and defensive relief in nearly every fixture he competes in.

The 30-year-old is so many things for his team, but his chance creation is quite literally second to none, surely something that may tempt Gyokeres to move to Old Trafford and lead the line for Amorim’s side, charged as he would be by Fernandes’ consistent playmaking.

Premier League 24/25 – Most Chances Created

Player

Apps

CC

1.

Bruno Fernandes

30

74

2.

Cole Palmer

30

71

3.

Mohamed Salah

31

70

4.

Dejan Kulusevski

27

62

5.

Enzo Fernandez

29

60

Data via StatMuse

While he wouldn’t come cheap, Gyokeres is the perfect profile for United and if signing a striker is neglected this summer, it’s hard to see how Amorim is going to close the huge gap between his team and their rivals.

There’s all the Sweden international’s clinical nature to consider. Sofascore record that he has missed 22 big chances across Liga Portugal and Champions League campaigns this season, scoring 36 goals across the two competitions.

That’s an insane level of composure and success in the ball-striking department. Truly, if such prowess can be translated to the Premier League, United could return to the forefront of the division, especially with Fernandes pulling the strings from behind.

Make no mistake, this is a player of greatness, a player who, in different circumstances, would be heralded with more effusive praises. Instead, he has remained committed to the United cause.

Fernandes has tasted a few pieces of silverware since walking through the gates, but if partnered with Gyokeres in a purring Amorim system, there’s no telling how high this club might reach.

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Manchester United are now preparing to make a £50m offer for an “incredible” defender, who is also wanted by Real Madrid and Liverpool, according to a report.

Man Utd's summer transfer plans taking shape

As we enter the business end of the season, Man United are on course for their lowest-ever Premier League finish, having taken just 38 points from 31 games, which indicates a major rebuilding job may be necessary in the summer.

One position in which United are very keen to strengthen is striker, with Napoli’s Victor Osimhen and Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap among their top targets, while an offer has also been submitted for Sporting CP talisman Viktor Gyokeres.

There are signs Ruben Amorim is also eager to strengthen the spine of his team, with a whole host of potential targets being identified in central midfield, including Ederson and Joao Gomes, who may be brought in to replace Casemiro.

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Not only that, but signing a new centre-back is also on the agenda, with Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapie a subject of interest, although a new report has revealed the Red Devils could also target a defender from much closer to home.

According to Caught Offside, Man United are now preparing to make a £50m offer for Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite, who is attracting widespread attention ahead of the summer transfer window.

United remain keen on the 6 foot 5 colossus, who has been a long-term target, but they could face competition for his signature from Liverpool and Real Madrid.

A move to Real Madrid could make the most sense from an Everton perspective, as the Toffees are unlikely to be willing to strengthen their Merseyside rivals or a fellow Premier League club.

"Incredible" Branthwaite could upgrade United's backline

It would be fair to say United’s defence has not been their main issue this season, having scored just 37 goals in the Premier League, only six more than Ipswich Town, who are 12 points from safety and almost certain to be relegated.

However, there are signs the Everton star could still be a solid signing this summer, having been lauded as “incredible” by teammate Seamus Coleman, while also being ranked among the most consistent players in the Toffees squad this season.

The Englishman’s performances this term follow on from a very impressive 2023-24 campaign, in which he was a part of the defence with the second most clean sheets in the Premier League.

Signing a new striker should be Amorim’s priority this summer, but if the manager has the funds to pursue a centre-back too, there are plenty of indications that Branthwaite could be a success at Old Trafford.

Newcastle United advanced to third place in the Premier League when they thrashed Crystal Palace at St. James’ Park on Wednesday evening.

Now, Jason Tindall will lead the Magpies out at Villa Park as Eddie Howe continues to recover from pneumonia. Aston Villa fought valiantly but failed to stage a comeback against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League in midweek, thus heightening what will be billed as a six-pointer of sorts.

19/04/25

Aston Villa (A)

7th

26/04/25

Ipswich Town (H)

18th

04/05/25

Brighton (A)

10th

10/05/25

Chelsea (H)

6th

18/05/25

Arsenal (A)

2nd

25/05/25

Everton (H)

13th

Unai Emery’s side sit in seventh place, five points behind Newcastle. Therefore, it’s paramount that United avoid defeat in the Midlands, reinforcing their strong position as they look to return to Europe’s elite stage after lifting the Carabao Cup in March.

Newcastle team news

Howe isn’t the only one who will be absent on Saturday evening, with Sven Botman, Jamal Lascelles and Lewis Hall all still sidelined. A weakened backline, yes, but Newcastle have proved their resourcefulness when faced with depletion.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Tindall spoke in his pre-match press conference of the importance of keeping a winning formula intact, but having played only three days ago, several players will be eyeing a starting berth. Anthony Gordon, for one.

However, the frontline is firing on all cylinders right now and the Three Lions star may have to wait a little longer to return from the outset.

The stand-in Toon boss may want to make a small tweak to his midfield, though.

Why Newcastle should make a change in midfield

Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes are playing with such brio at the moment that to replace either of them would be a foolish notion. However, Joelinton could start this one from the bench without disrupting the overall fluency of Newcastle’s engine room.

Joelinton is a force of a player, a raging bull, and while he laid on an assist for Alexander Isak against the Eagles, the Brazilian was somewhat anonymous by his usual standards, winning three duels and taking just 33 touches before being hooked just after the hour mark.

Newcastle do have options to step in, should Tindall opt to freshen things up a tad. And who better to unleash than Lewis Miley, who has had to bide his time for minutes this term after an injury-disrupted start and the overall fluidity of Newcastle’s tried-and-tested starters.

Miley, 20, has been a breath of fresh air over the past few years, breaking from the Tyneside academy and making his name as a prospect of genuine potential, already praised for his “unbelievable” technical ability by fellow youth graduate Sean Longstaff.

Though he hasn’t featured all that often this term, the rangy midfielder could make a real impression here, stepping in due to Newcastle’s short turnaround.

His sole Premier League start of the season so far sparked a goal, and a rounded performance besides. As per Sofascore, Miley complemented his crisp, driven strike against Nottingham Forest by taking 63 touches, winning six duels and making two tackles and interceptions apiece.

Now, that dynamism could be utilised against Aston Villa. Miley’s technical, ball-playing quality will be well served against Emery’s hybrid style, looking to spark rapid transitions that could be countered by a midfield three including Miley, blending coolness with creativity.

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As they look to deal their Premier League rivals a major blow and land a key reinforcement in the process, Aston Villa are now reportedly prepared to complete Unai Emery’s transfer request to hijack a major star from Tottenham.

Aston Villa ready to grant Emery's wish

Having dragged them from the depths of relegation battles all the way to a Champions League quarter-final and a place in the last four of the FA Cup, to say that Emery is well-placed to make his own transfer requests at Villa Park would be an understatement. Together with sporting director Monchi, the Spaniard has earned the backing of those in the Midlands.

To Villa’s credit too, they’re often just as ambitious as their manager in the transfer market – welcoming both Marco Asensio and Marcus Rashford on loan during the January window. And that ambition is only likely to increase if they qualify for the Champions League for a second-consecutive season – perhaps resulting in moves for the likes of Dusan Vlahovic.

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The Villans are reportedly leading the race to sign the out-of-favour Juventus striker and could land a deal for as little as £33m this summer. It’s not just the Serbian forward on their radar, however.

According to Football Transfers, Aston Villa are now preparing to grant Emery’s request and sign Cristian Romero from Tottenham Hotspur this summer. The Argentina defender is reportedly ready to move on from North London and will cost as much as £55m, with Villa ‘willing to offer Romero a five-year contract’.

A World Cup-winner and Champions League-level defender, Emery’s interest in Romero should come as little surprise. It represents how far Spurs have fallen at the same time as Villa’s rise that the two clubs have almost swapped in positions both on and off the pitch. It wouldn’t be absurd to suggest that, in 2025, a move to Villa Park is bigger than heading to Spurs.

"Strong" Romero would be impressive coup

Luring one of the most influential players at one of the so-called top six clubs to the Midlands would not only validate Villa’s place in the battle for European places, it would also send a damning statement of intent. Emery already knows all about Romero’s quality and whilst there may be some concerns over his recent injury history, there’s no doubt that he would instantly hand Aston Villa a defensive leader.

Ollie Watkins also knows all about the defender’s quality. As Spurs thrashed Aston Villa 4-1 earlier this season, the England international was limited to just three touches in the opposition box and lost as many as nine duels. Romero, meanwhile, made four interceptions and won four out of seven ground duels whilst maintaining a pass accuracy of 95%.

If that was his Aston Villa audition, then the Argentine passed with flying colours. It’s those types of performances that have seen Romero praised by the likes of teammate Micky van de Ven, who told reporters last season: “Amazing player, unbelievable player. Defensively so strong, with the ball so strong, keeps talking, for me an amazing player.”

Liverpool are nearing the end of a terrific season under Arne Slot and could now pounce in an exciting summer transfer deal, according to reports.

Liverpool set for an exciting summer transfer window

Last week, news of Mohamed Salah’s contract renewal at Liverpool brought a feeling of jubilation to supporters ahead of their inevitable Premier League title triumph.

The Reds could be crowned champions this weekend if Arsenal lose at Ipswich Town and they defeat Leicester City. This would likely excite the general public about the possibility of talented summer arrivals at Anfield.

Looking to make a statement, Liverpool could strike to bring in Bayern Munich star Kingsley Coman and his current employers could be open to selling him, per Christian Falk.

Furthermore, RB Leipzig’s Castello Lukeba is on Slot’s wishlist following a scouting mission involving the 22-year-old alongside his teammates Xavi Simons and Benjamin Sesko.

Arne Slot is aware that change could be afoot upon the red half of Merseyside. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future is up in the air with his contract set to expire, while clubs in Saudi Arabia are keeping tabs on Luis Diaz as his deal ticks into its final two years.

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Several of Liverpool’s title competitors simply haven’t been able to keep pace this term. Come the window, many will have designs on bringing in new talent to avoid a repeat scenario next time out.

FSG have gained a mixed reception among supporters, creating a feeling that this summer may be the time to go big in their quest to keep the Reds at the top of the English pyramid for years to come. Heeding that warning, Slot and company are now planning a swoop for a Premier League star that could make headlines across the country.

Liverpool line up sizeable Kaoru Mitoma deal

According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool are in the mix to sign Brighton & Hove Albion star Kaoru Mitoma and the Seagulls are said to be open to selling the Japan international once the window finally opens.

Fabian Hurzeler is set to demand £80 million for the 27-year-old, who may also attract further interest from Al Nassr following their failed attempts to secure his services in January.

Kaoru Mitoma’s key statistics in 2024/25 – Premier League

Completed dribbles

48

Chances created

35

Shots on target

23

Touches in opposition penalty area

156

Goals

7

Assists

3

Labelled a “special talent” by boss Hurzeler, the tricky winger has registered eight strikes and three assists in 36 appearances across all competitions as the Seagulls look to seal continental qualification.

Financially, Mitoma would cost a pretty penny to bring to Liverpool, but having a ready-made replacement for Diaz in the event the Colombia international does move on would be a wise move for all concerned.

In a summer where the Reds are set to be one of the most appealing potential destinations for players on the market, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the Oita-born man join up on Merseyside.

English football clubs have a rich history in the Champions League. Since 1992/93, there have been seven English winners following Manchester United’s triumph in 1999.

Next year will see England will take their continental supremacy to another level, with five teams qualifying for the league phase via the Premier League – while they could be joined by this year’s Europa League winners.

And amid the fight for a top-five finish, some unlikely candidates have placed themselves in the race to qualify, with Nottingham Forest looking to compete for the first time in 45 years.

With the Reds hoping to join a growing list of clubs to make the final competition in its modern guise, here’s a look at every English team to play some form of Champions League football since its 1992/93 revamp.

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Club

CL debut

CL seasons

Last played

Best performance

Arsenal

1998/99

21

2024/25

Final (2006)

Aston Villa

2024/25

1

2024/25

Quarter-finals (2025)

Blackburn

1995/96

1

1995/96

Group stage (1995)

Chelsea

1999/00

19

2022/23

Winners (2012, 2021)

Everton

2005/06

1

2005/06

Third qualifying round (2005)

Leeds

1992/93

2

2000/01

Semi-finals (2001)

Leicester

2016/17

1

2016/17

Quarter-finals (2017)

Liverpool

2001/02

16

2024/25

Winners (2005, 2019)

Man City

2011/12

14

2024/25

Winners (2023)

Man Utd

1993/94

26

2023/24

Winners (1999, 2008)

Newcastle

1997/98

4

2023/24

Second group phase (2003)

Tottenham

2010/11

6

2022/23

Final (2019)

1 Arsenal CL seasons: 21

Arsenal are on cloud nine after battering European champions Real Madrid at the Emirates Stadium recently.

It was one of their finest European nights, and are on the verge of making the semi-finals for just the third time.

Making their debut in 1998/99, the closest they have come to lifting the trophy is losing the 2006 final to Barcelona, and made a knack of exiting at the last-16 stage before back-to-back quarter-final appearances upon their long-awaited return to the competition in 2023/24.

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ByStephan Georgiou Apr 9, 2025 2 Aston Villa CL seasons: 1

Unai Emery delivered a superb Champions League finish in his first full season at Aston Villa, and has the Midlands side potentially 90 minutes away from the semi-finals at the time of writing.

Winners of the European Cup in 1982, Villa spent over a decade without European football before reaching the Conference League semi-finals in 2024.

While their European campaign is in danger of ending soon, the Villans have seemingly returned to the top table for good – and may yet qualify again next season.

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ByStephan Georgiou Mar 29, 2025 3 Blackburn Rovers CL seasons: 1

Upon winning the Premier League in 1994/95, Blackburn Rovers were England’s sole representative in the 1995/96 edition of the Champions League.

Unfortunately, it did not pan out too well for Rovers, with the Lancashire side finishing bottom of their group.

Their fixture against Spartak Moscow is perhaps best known for an incident where teammates David Batty and Graeme Le Saux came to blows as their European dream ended.

4 Chelsea CL seasons: 19

Only Manchester United and Arsenal have featured more often in the Champions League than Chelsea, with the Blues firmly in the race to return to the competition after two seasons away.

The Blues’ finest hours on the continental stage have come in the form of their two trophy wins – firstly in 2012, when a dramatic comeback and penalty shootout saw off favourites Bayern Munich.

They bagged a second Champions League crown against league rivals Manchester City in Porto as England boss Thomas Tuchel showcased his tournament credentials.

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ByRoss Kilvington Mar 7, 2025 5 Everton CL seasons: 1

Everton’s Champions League history is decidedly brief, though not for some questionable officiating, it could have been a little longer.

The Toffees’ fourth-place finish in the 2004/05 Premier League saw them enter the third qualifying round – the last round before the group stages.

Coming up against Villarreal, Everton had it all do in their second leg in Spain as they sought to overturn a 2-1 deficit.

But having battled to level the second leg at 1-1, a Duncan Ferguson header to force extra-time was inexplicably ruled out for a foul by Pierluigi Collina, before a sucker-punch strike from Diego Forlan broke Everton hearts.

6 Leeds United CL seasons: 2

As English league champions, Leeds United took part in the ‘first’ tournament of the post-European Cup era.

They came unstuck pretty quickly in the second round – which preceded the group stages – against Rangers, but put up a far better fight in their most recent appearance in 2000/01.

Leeds made the semi-finals, defeating the likes of Milan, Lazio and Deportivo along the way, before being beaten by Valencia in the last four.

7 Leicester City CL seasons: 1

Part of Leicester City’s reward for their fairytale Premier League triumph was a place in the following season’s Champions League.

While their domestic season fell totally flat (Claudio Ranieri was dismissed before their European exit), they ended up as the last English club standing in 2016/17.

After winning their group, they came from behind to defeat Sevilla on aggregate, though Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid proved a bridge too far in the quarter-finals.

8 Liverpool CL seasons: 19

Liverpool’s place in European Cup and Champions League history is assured, winning the famous trophy six times.

However, their first appearance in the Champions League didn’t come until 2001/02 under Gerard Houllier, whose successor, Rafael Benitez, led the Reds to their classic final victory over Milan in 2005.

They have since won it once more in 2019, with Jurgen Klopp’s side defeating Tottenham in Madrid.

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ByRoss Kilvington Nov 27, 2024 9 Manchester City CL seasons: 14

Manchester City have appeared in every edition of the Champions League since their debut in 2011/12.

After a number of false starts, they finally made the final in 2021, and although they were beaten by Chelsea on that occasion, they made up for it by sealing a historic treble in 2023 with a victory over Inter.

Having suffered on the pitch in 2024/25, their place in next season’s competition is not yet certain.

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ByRoss Kilvington May 21, 2025 10 Manchester United CL seasons: 26

Manchester United have been kings of Europe three times – including twice in the Champions League era.

United won Europe’s biggest prize in 1968, 1999 and 2008, but have only reached the last eight once in the last 11 seasons.

At their peak, United reached three finals in four years between 2008 and 2011, only to run into Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona on two occasions.

They have been England’s most frequent representatives since 1992, appearing 26 times.

Off the back of a 30-goal season in 2022/23 under Erik ten Hag, it would have appeared ridiculous to suggest that just under two years later, Manchester United’s academy sensation, Marcus Rashford, would be lining up for anyone other than the Red Devils.

As it is, the Englishman – who left the club on loan in February – is now part of an Aston Villa side chasing FA Cup and Champions League glory, with a top-five finish also in reach for Unai Emery’s high-flying side.

Three goals and four assists have come the 27-year-old’s way in just 13 games in his new temporary home, with Emery even opting to start his red-hot forward ahead of compatriot, Ollie Watkins for Wednesday’s first-leg clash with Paris Saint-Germain.

There may be those ruing Ruben Amorim’s decision to let Rashford depart, although it’s worth remembering that the 2022/23 campaign was merely an outlier in what had been a turbulent last few years for the £300k-per-week star back at Old Trafford.

2024/25*

24

7

3

2023/24

43

8

6

2022/23

56

30

11

2021/22

32

5

2

2020/21

57

21

18

With Rashford already outlining his desire for “a new challenge” back in December, this is surely the beginning of the end for his United journey. Now, INEOS need to acquire a suitable replacement.

Man Utd's search for a new forward

The name doing the rounds at present is that of Wolverhampton Wanderers talisman, Matheus Cunha, with reports earlier this week suggesting that contact has already been made with the Brazilian’s agent, ahead of a potential summer swoop.

It would appear that the Red Devils are putting together a contingency plan in case they aren’t able to land the 25-year-old, however, with GIVEMESPORT outlining that Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo is also under consideration.

As per the report, Amorim and co are on ‘red alert’ after assessing the data surrounding Mbeumo’s displays for the Bees this season, with there said to be ‘increasing confidence’ that the Cameroon international could reignite United’s misfiring forward line.

Transfer Focus

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The piece outlines that while it would take a sizeable offer to land the 25-year-old, believed to be in the region of £50m, the wing wizard could be up for grabs as he enters the final year of his contract at the Gtech Community Stadium.

Capable of operating off the right flank or through the middle, the France-born sensation could represent the perfect addition to Amorim’s attacking ranks, ahead of next season.

How Mbeumo compares to Rashford & Elanga

Not only have United seen Rashford find form again away from the Theatre of Dreams, but another academy graduate – Anthony Elanga – has also dazzled since moving to Nottingham Forest on a £15m deal back in 2023, having notably scored the decisive goal in stunning fashion against his former club last week.

The Swedish speedster has racked up 29 goals and assists in 74 games since moving to the City Ground, albeit with Amorim seemingly refuting claims that it had been a mistake to sell the winger, after he was given a “chance” to impress back in Manchester.

Even so, there is a lingering frustration over the decision to cash in on the 22-year-old on the cheap, albeit with the signing of Mbeumo allowing those of a United persuasion to forget all about Elanga – and Rashford – due to his status as “one of the best players in the Premier League”, according to Sky Sports’ Dan Bardell.

Indeed, the former Troyes starlet – who joined Thomas Frank’s side in 2019 – has scored 16 goals and provided a further five assists in the top-flight in 2024/25 to date, coming close to bettering Rashford’s best ever tally of 17 league goals, which he achieved in 2019/20 and 2022/23.

Described as “unplayable” at times by the aforementioned Frank, Mbeumo has lit up the division in recent times, with the left-footer ending last term with 15 goals and assists to his name, despite being hampered by injury.

Goals

0.52

0.35

0.27

Assists

0.16

0.21

0.37

Progressive carries

3.33

2.55

3.61

Progressive passes

3.75

2.34

3.10

Pass completion

67.1%

73%

65%

Shot-creating actions

3.78

3.46

3.69

Successful take-ons

1.23

1.21

1.00

Tackles

1.10

0.92

0.78

Interceptions

0.42

0.35

0.23

Interestingly, too, the two most statistically similar forwards to the Brentford talisman in the league, as per FBref, are actually Rashford and Elanga, with Mbeumo possessing the searing pace of the latter, as well as the centre-forward instincts of the former – seemingly the perfect hybrid.

As indicated in the table above, it is the Bees man who comes on top across a string of attacking and defensive metrics in 2024/25, indicating that while he may possess the characteristics of his two Premier League counterparts, he would actually represent an upgrade as far as Amorim is concerned.

With 54 goals and assists in 129 top-flight games to date in English football, Mbeumo would represent the ready-made solution that United are desperately craving in the forward line.

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