EPL
Martial given hero’s welcome by AEK fans with flares as Arsenal icon slams star
Anthony Martial Receives Hero’s Welcome in Greece After Joining AEK Athens on Free Transfer
Anthony Martial was greeted like a hero by AEK Athens fans, who lit flares to celebrate his surprising free transfer to the Greek club. The former Manchester United forward has now joined AEK after leaving Old Trafford earlier this summer.
Martial’s departure from United came as his contract expired, allowing him to leave the club as a free agent. His new chapter with AEK Athens adds to an already impressive summer of signings for the ambitious Greek side.
AEK has been busy in the transfer market, securing former Premier League talents Erik Lamela, Roberto Pereyra, and Thomas Strakosha on free transfers. They were also close to signing David Datro Fofana from Chelsea, but negotiations fell through at the last moment.
Despite missing out on Fofana, AEK hit the mark by securing Martial’s signature after his proposed move to Brazilian giants Flamengo collapsed. The former Sevilla loanee arrived in the Greek capital last night, having signed his new contract, and was greeted with a raucous reception.
AEK supporters filled the airport, lighting flares and chanting Martial’s name as he stepped off the plane. The passionate welcome marks the beginning of a new journey for the Frenchman, who will look to revive his career in the Greek Super League.
Martial joined Manchester United in 2015 from Monaco for a fee that could rise to £58 million, setting a transfer record for a teenager at the time. He made an instant impact, scoring 17 goals in 49 appearances during his debut season. However, that would end up being his highest number of appearances in a single campaign at United.
Over the years, Martial struggled with various injuries and inconsistent form. By the end of his time at United, he had managed to score just 90 goals in 317 games. Now, he aims for a fresh start with AEK Athens, where fans are clearly eager to see what he can bring to their squad.
Anthony Martial is looking for a fresh start with AEK Athens, who currently sit at the top of the Greek Super League after four matches. The club finished as runners-up to PAOK last season and is now determined to reclaim the title they last won in 2023.
Despite Martial’s new chapter in Greece, former Arsenal and Chelsea star Emmanuel Petit has raised doubts about whether the French forward still possesses the “desire” to continue his career.
Petit expressed his concerns, saying: “I can’t remember the last time Martial was truly a proper footballer on the pitch, delivering good performances. Maybe he should ask himself this question: Does he have the desire to keep going with his career? Because it seems that the last few years have been very difficult for him both on and off the pitch.”
He added, “It’s challenging to have a positive mindset every morning when you arrive at the training ground, especially when you are dealing with problems in your personal life, issues in the dressing room, and troubles everywhere.
“If I were Anthony Martial, I would look in the mirror and ask myself: Do I still want to be a professional footballer?”
BUNDESLIGA
Leroy Sane Breaks Silence On Arsenal Transfer Rumors
Leroy Sane has revealed ongoing talks with Bayern Munich about extending his contract at the Allianz Arena, signaling his reluctance to consider a return to the Premier League.
The German winger, who joined Bayern from Manchester City in 2020, is now in the final year of his current deal.
This situation has sparked interest from Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool, especially after Sane’s hesitation to commit to an extension last year.
From January, clubs outside Germany can legally initiate discussions with Sane regarding a potential transfer. However, the 28-year-old has delivered a significant setback to his suitors, expressing his preference to remain at Bayern if terms can be agreed.
Since arriving in Munich, Sane has made a strong impact, contributing 51 goals and 50 assists across 186 appearances.
Despite featuring mostly from the bench this season under Vincent Kompany, Sane has reiterated his commitment to Bayern. In an interview with BILD, he stated: “We are in talks. I feel comfortable in Munich. I feel really comfortable. Talks are very good. My focus is currently only on Bayern.”
Addressing the possibility of a Premier League return, Sane was clear about his priorities. “I follow Premier League football, but the attraction for me lies in the club where I can show my best performance, develop, and win titles. I have that at Bayern,” he said.
Although Sane has seen limited starts this season, Kompany—his former Manchester City teammate—has acknowledged the winger’s influence. Speaking after Bayern’s recent win against Benfica, Kompany praised Sane’s contribution: “Leroy changed the game, you could say that. Leroy did very well after he was subbed on.
“I’m very happy to have the quality of Leroy Sane and Michael Olise in the same position, not to forget Kingsley Coman and Serge Gnabry. They have all scored goals and contributed well so far this season.”
Manchester United and Arsenal, who were reportedly preparing to battle for Sane’s signature, may now be forced to reconsider their plans.
Both clubs were eager to secure the services of a player with proven Premier League credentials, including two league titles and a PFA Young Player of the Year award from his time at Manchester City.
EPL
Real Madrid Star Endrick Could Make Shock EPL Move After Transfer Talk
Southampton, currently rooted at the bottom of the Premier League table, are eyeing an ambitious January transfer window with a potential move for Real Madrid’s young talent, Endrick. However, the Saints may face stiff competition for his signature.
The 18-year-old Brazilian joined Real Madrid in the summer from Palmeiras in a £60m deal but has struggled for regular playing time. This season, Endrick has made ten appearances across all competitions, scoring twice. Despite these contributions, he has yet to start a game, with his league minutes limited to brief late appearances.
Reports suggest that Real Madrid might consider loaning him out to gain more experience, and Southampton are reportedly interested. According to Sport, the Saints have initiated discussions with Real Madrid about a possible deal.
However, they are not alone in their pursuit. Serie A club Roma and La Liga side Real Valladolid are also said to have expressed interest in the talented forward.
The decision on Endrick’s future is expected to take shape as the January transfer window approaches. Meanwhile, speculation surrounds another Real Madrid youngster, Arda Güler. The Turkish starlet has attracted interest from clubs like Arsenal, who have reportedly opened talks with Real Madrid about a potential move.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti recently addressed the situation regarding both players. He emphasized their quality and readiness to contribute but maintained that the team’s immediate focus is on improving collective results.
He acknowledged that Endrick and Güler could play key roles, saying, “They are ready to play and showing a lot of quality in training. They can help us in the next games, but the priority is to turn things around as a team.”
For Southampton, the stakes are high. With just one win in their first 11 games of the season and only seven goals scored, the Saints find themselves four points adrift of safety.
Manager Russell Martin will be desperate for reinforcements in January to boost their survival hopes and avoid an immediate return to the Championship.
EPL
Ruben Amorim Discovers Man Utd Transfer Budget
Ruben Amorim’s appointment as Manchester United manager marks a shift toward developing existing talent and a more measured transfer approach under Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS ownership.
The club, having spent heavily in recent years, is now focusing on sustainability, signaling a new era at Old Trafford.
United spent over £600 million during Erik ten Hag’s tenure, but Amorim’s arrival comes with a mandate to prioritize squad improvement rather than relying on lavish spending. The Portuguese coach, hailed as one of Europe’s brightest young tacticians arrives with his trusted coaching staff from Sporting Lisbon after achieving remarkable success, including two league titles and two domestic cups.
Costly Changes Amid Financial Pressures
Bringing Amorim to United mid-season came at a significant cost. The club paid Sporting Lisbon £9.25 million in compensation, while parting ways with Ten Hag and his staff required an additional £15 million.
These decisions highlight United’s financial struggles, as the club posted pre-tax losses of £312.9 million over the past three seasons and faces pressure to meet profit and sustainability regulations.
Amorim inherits a squad strengthened by a £180 million summer transfer window, which included signings like Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, Joshua Zirkzee, Noussair Mazraoui, and Manuel Ugarte.
However, he has been told not to expect funds for the January transfer window. Instead, the club will focus on leveraging the potential of its current roster, including players like Rasmus Højlund (£72 million) and Mason Mount (£55 million).
Strategic Focus on Youth and Development
Amorim’s task is clear: maximize the potential of the squad and build around a promising young core.
The new leadership team, comprising sporting director Dan Ashworth, technical director Jason Wilcox, chief executive Omar Berrada, and INEOS director of sport Dave Brailsford, believes this approach will stabilize the club financially and on the pitch.
Manchester United’s current position—13th in the Premier League and four points off the top four—underscores the urgency of Amorim’s mission. Missing out on Champions League qualification for a second consecutive year could have significant financial repercussions.
January Transfer Window: Limited Activity Expected
With financial constraints looming, United are unlikely to make major moves in the January transfer window despite links to players like Sporting’s Viktor Gyökeres and Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies. Instead, Amorim will look toward the summer window for more flexibility in reshaping the squad.
Contracts of several players, including Christian Eriksen, Victor Lindelöf, and Jonny Evans, are set to expire at the end of the season, while options exist to extend deals for Harry Maguire and Amad Diallo.
Jadon Sancho could also leave permanently, as Chelsea hold an obligation to buy him if they finish in the Premier League’s top 14.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
The new INEOS leadership has already implemented significant cost-cutting measures, including a controversial reduction of 250 staff members, costing the club £47.8 million. Such moves highlight the financial balancing act required as Manchester United aims to remain competitive while addressing long-term sustainability.
Ruben Amorim’s ability to revitalize the squad, instill his philosophy, and navigate these financial constraints will be pivotal in determining whether Manchester United can re-establish themselves as Premier League contenders. His journey begins with Sunday’s clash against Ipswich Town, where he’ll aim to spark the turnaround fans have been waiting for.
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