Al Sadd acusa Abel, do Palmeiras, de quebrar pré-contrato e aciona a Fifa

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O Al Sadd, do Qatar, entrou com uma ação na Fifa contra o técnico Abel Ferreira, do Palmeiras, alegando que o treinador português descumpriu um pré-contrato com a equipe qatari. A informação foi divulgada pela TNT e confirmada pelo Lance!.

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➡️ Vai dar Brasil? Aposte no Lance! Betting e fature com a Copa América

Procurado pela reportagem, o Verdão está disse estar ciente do caso e vem tomando todas as medidas jurídicas cabíveis para auxiliar Abel no processo.

➡️ Siga o Lance! Palmeiras no WhatsApp e acompanhe todas as notícias do Verdão

O Al Sadd diz ter iniciado negociações com Abel Ferreira em outubro de 2023, e no mês seguinte teria assinado um documento equivalente a um pré-contrato no qual o português assumiria o clube em 27 de dezembro de 2023.

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O clube do Qatar busca na Fifa uma compensação de 5 milhões de euros (quase R$ 28 milhões, pela cotação atual). Além disso, caso a Fifa entenda que Abel descumpriu o pré-contrato com o Al Sadd, a corte pode aplicar sanções ao Palmeiras por induzir o treinador a esse descumprimento.

➡️ Veja tabela com datas e horários de todos os jogos do Brasileirão

O processo entre o Al Sadd e Abel Ferreira, técnico do Palmeiras, está em fase inicial e poderá ser recorrida por qualquer uma das partes, ao CAS (Corte Arbitral do Esporte).

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Fast Rays Runner Created Most Bizarre Balk You'll Ever See

Major League Baseball decided to do away with repeated pickoff attempts over to first base a few years ago and hasn't looked back. Under the current rules, if a pitcher disengages with the rubber more than three times during an at-bat, it results in a balk and the runners are able to move up a base. In practice, this is most apparent when there have already been two pickoff attempts during an at bat and runners are able to take enormous leads knowing that if there's a third try all they have to do is make it back safely and they'll get to advance. Or they can just take off with a huge headstart toward the next station.

The rules tweak has made games move quicker and inspired more action on the bases. But no single moment more exciting and bizarre than the one during yesterday's Tampa Bay Rays-Los Angeles Angels game.

Chandler Simpson, who is as fast as anyone in baseball, elicited two throws over from Angles lefty Tyler Anderson in the top of the first inning, then broke for second base on the third.

And then, well, let's let the video take it from there.

All of this resulted in a balk and Simpson was able to jog to second base unimpeded after avoiding several defenders and finding safe harbor back on first.

Now that's baseball in 2025. Anderson could have saved everyone a lot of time by just flinching or dropping the ball and it would have had the same effect. But Simpson did get to show off his athleticism and get his steps in.

Cal Raleigh Got Emotional and NSFW While Celebrating Mariners' Divisional Crown

Cal Raleigh put an exclamation point on what has been arguably the greatest offensive season by a catcher in Major League Baseball by blasting his 60th home run on Wednesday night as his Seattle Mariners clinched the American League West with a victory over the Colorado Rockies. The feat is downright astounding when one considers the physical toll it takes to play baseball's most grinding position, how hard it is to be productive from both sides of the plate as a switch hitter and that he plays 81 games in a very pitcher-friendly ballpark.

As the team was in its opening minutes of celebration, Raleigh got on the loudspeaker via an interview with Root Sports and reflected on the moment. The man affectionately know as "Big Dumper" showcased the duality of man by being open with his emotions and also working blue.

"I love the city, I love my parents," Raleigh said. "Thank you for being here. I'm so happy for our guys. We're gonna celebrate tonight and we're not done yet."

Asked about the idea that the Mariners have more work to do, Raleigh directed people to his previous comments.

"I think most people heard what I said last night: might as well win the whole f—ing thing."

Nothing says October baseball like a player trying to get a catchphrase off the ground. It'll likely have plenty of time to catch on as Seattle will be awarded a by into the divisional round barring a sudden losing streak that would allow either the Cleveland Guardians or Detroit Tigers to catch them.

Kobbie Mainoo in advanced talks to join Champions League club in January

A significant update has now emerged regarding Kobbie Mainoo’s future at Manchester United, with a Champions League side pushing hard to sign him.

Mainoo’s stock has fallen over the past 12 months or so, having burst onto the scene at Old Trafford, and he is struggling for playing time this season.

Ruben Amorim has recently spoken honestly about the Englishman’s future, admitting that he rates him but also needs to keep other players happy.

“No, like a lot of guys, he wants to play more. I didn’t have a conversation with him before the window closed – I did this week. Because I don’t want Kobbie Mainoo thinking that I was having any conversation with him just to hold on to him. I don’t want that feeling.

“I believe a lot in Kobbie, but some of you think that Kobbie Mainoo is already done (the finished article). I think he can do so much better, he can improve a lot. I think for some guys it is enough (their talent), but for him it is not enough. Maybe it’s not fair, but I think I’m helping Kobbie Mainoo, and that’s it. He will have opportunities like the other guys.”

Mainoo has been linked with a move away from United in the January transfer window, and now a fresh update has emerged regarding his future.

Napoli in advanced talks to sign Mainoo

According to a new report from TEAMtalk, Mainoo’s representatives are in “advanced discussions” with Napoli over a loan move from Manchester United in January.

It is also stated that Tottenham, Newcastle and Manchester City also “continue to monitor” the £45,000-a-week ace, but “Napoli’s wage pledge and option clause have vaulted them to pole position.”

It has been sad to see Mainoo fail to kick on at United, having looked such a special talent, but it simply appears as though Amorim doesn’t think he is right for his system.

That’s not to say that the Red Devils manager doesn’t consider him a talented footballer, however, with the 40-year-old lauding him back in September.

“Maybe it’s not fair, but I think I’m helping Kobbie Mainoo and that’s it. He will have opportunities like the other guys. If I feel during the week that he’s the best player to play, he’s going to play and I proved that already to every player here. I believe a lot in him. I have the same thing [opinion] that you have and that is a top, top player, but he can be so much better, so I’m focused on that.”

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A loan move to Napoli means that Mainoo’s United career isn’t over, giving fans some hope that he has a future, but as things stand, it is hard to see him becoming a key figure with Amorim at the helm.

Carrington's "best talent" is a big Sesko upgrade in the making at Man Utd

49ers keen on hiring Farke upgrade at Leeds who's a "bit like Bielsa"

Leeds United are in a dire situation. The Whites continue to lose games in the Premier League consistently, with their most recent defeat coming away to Manchester City, 3-2 at the Etihad Stadium.

Indeed, bagging two goals away to Pep Guardiola’s side was impressive, and the performance going forward was slightly better.

The Whites managed nine shots at Gianluigi Donnarumma’s goal, with four of those finding the target. They were more clinical, too, scoring two out of the three big chances they created.

Yet, with another loss, the pressure continues to mount on Daniel Farke, and the underlying numbers are evidence as to why.

Leeds' underlying numbers this season

Many people expected the West Yorkshire side to be in a relegation fight by the end of the season, including ESPN pundit Bill Connelly, who predicted them to finish 18th. Well, they are now in that exact position in the Premier League, with 11 points to their name.

Goalscoring has been a real issue for the Whites this term. Farke’s side have only bagged 13 goals. That is better than one side, bottom-place Wolverhampton Wanderers, who have only scored seven times.

Leeds are drastically underachieving on their expected goals, too, a metric which currently stands at 16.96 xG. That is almost four goals more than what they have managed, the third biggest underachievement in the Premier League this season.

The spread of goals in their squad is perhaps concerning, too. Summer signing Lukas Nmecha is their top scorer in the Premier League with four, and only three players have found the back of the net multiple times. Dominic Calvert-Lewin is one of those, after he scored his second of the season against City at the weekend.

Looking at those numbers, it might not be a surprise that Leeds are struggling as much as they are. It is why Farke’s job is under pressure, although an alternative could have been identified.

Leeds' Farke alternative

A recent report from talkSPORT suggests that the Whites are ‘admirers’ of former Nottingham Forest and Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou.

Of course, he hasn’t long been out of the game, having left the East Midlands a few months ago, but could already return to the Premier League if Leeds approach.

His first season in North London showed exactly how good he can be. Described as a “highly entertaining” manager by former Spurs star Graham Roberts, Postecoglou played high-octane football, which helped the Lilywhites qualify for the Europa League.

That is a style the Elland Road faithful might be used to. Marcelo Bielsa, one of their best managers in recent years, was famed for his energetic brand of football, a style Anthony Hudson said is “a really positive approach.”

In fact, former Chelsea and Arsenal defender William Gallas has even said that “demands remind me a little bit of Bielsa” because of how “physically exhausting” it can be. Remember Bielsa’s famed murder ball? Well, that could be back at Thorp Arch before too long.

In Postecoglou’s first campaign in the hot seat at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium, the Australian won 21 games in 41 that he coached. His side were fluid going forward, bagging 79 times across all competitions.

It is interesting to look at a comparison between the numbers that Postecoglou’s Spurs put up in their first 13 games in the Premier League, compared to Farke’s side from this season. Indeed, they stack up well and hint at the attacking football he could bring to Elland Road.

For example, Spurs had scored 25 goals in those opening 13 matches in 2023/24. They were overachieving slightly when it came to expected goals, too. The Lilywhites racked up 23.83 xG, a steady pace along with their actual total.

Postecoglou vs Farke first 13 games

Stat

Postecoglou (23/24)

Farke (25/26)

Points

26

11

Expected points

20.66xPTS

17.88xPTS

Goals

25

13

Expected goals

23.83xG

16.96xG

Goals conceded

17

25

Expected goals conceced

21.28xGA

18.52xGA

Stats from Understat

It is easy to see how Postecoglou could be an upgrade on Farke. The Australian manager might play risky football with a high line, but it has proven to be entertaining and a good source of goals.

Nottingham Forest managerAngePostecoglouarrives inside the stadium before the match

The numbers highlighted show what fans can expect to see if the Whites execute Postecoglou’s game plan well. He could certainly bring an exciting brand of football to Elland Road and would ultimately be an upgrade on Farke.

Fewer touches than Perri: Farke must bin Leeds star who lost the ball 14x

Daniel Farke must drop one player after Saturday’s defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad.

By
Ethan Lamb

Nov 30, 2025

Chelsea have already signed "the next Cristiano Ronaldo" for half of his release clause

Sources have described an incoming Chelsea starlet as another potential superstar, as BlueCo prepare to welcome another Estevao-like talent.

Estevao rise leads Chelsea youth transfer revolution

Estevao has announced himself as one of world football’s brightest young talents since joining Chelsea this summer, producing performances that suggest the Brazilian teenager could become a generational superstar at Stamford Bridge.

The 18-year-old has enjoyed a sensational start to life in English football, scoring five goals and providing one assist in just 740 minutes across all competitions.

Statistically, he’s already surpassed legendary figures at similar stages of their careers, with his goal contributions eclipsing what Lionel Messi and Ronaldo managed in their first seventeen appearances for Barcelona and Manchester United respectively.

Estevao’s finest hour yet came against Barça in the Champions League on Tuesday night.

His breathtaking solo goal left top-level defenders trailing in his wake before the ex-Palmeiras sensation fired into the roof of the net, making him only the third teenager in history to score in each of his first three Champions League starts alongside Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé and Man City’s Erling Haaland.

Estêvão’s game v Barça

Minutes

83′

Expected Goals

0.13

Goals

1

Expected Assists

0.35

Big Chances Created

1

Key Passes

3

Long Balls

1/1

Shots

2

Touches

47

Recoveries

4

All Stats via Sofascore

Estevao’s Premier League performances have shown similar promise, with the South American’s dramatic last-gasp winner against Liverpool in October sending Enzo Maresca into raptures on the touchline.

Chelsea’s investment in young talent continues to shape their long-term recruitment strategy, with Estevao representing just the beginning of an exciting wave of arrivals.

Ecuadorian midfielder Kendry Paez, who is currently on loan at sister club Strasbourg, has been tipped for an exciting future, with Kairat Almaty forward Dastan Satpaev and Corinthians left-back Denner also set to arrive in 2026 — alongside Strasbourg striker Emmanuel Emegha.

As well as the aforementioned quartet, Chelsea will welcome Sporting CP sensation Geovany Quenda to London next summer.

Maresca’s side struck a £44 million deal for the winger in March, and he’s already been described by some as one of the most exciting young talents in world football.

Quenda has been on fire this term with five goals and eight assists in 20 appearances, with Chelsea signing Quenda for half of his release clause earlier this year in what could turn out to be a bargain move.

Chelsea have already signed 'the next Cristiano Ronaldo' in Geovany Quenda

That is according to Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol, who also says that those in Portugal are describing Quenda as ‘the next Cristiano Ronaldo’ in very high praise.

Speaking in a video down at the bottom of a Sky Q&A, Solhekol also reports that there are ‘more Estevaos on the way ‘— referencing Quenda as chief among them.

Commenting on his move to Chelsea, Sporting boss Rui Borges did have a word of caution for the Portugal Under-21 international — namely that this hype could ‘affect his mental state’.

Being compared to Ronaldo brings its own pressure, but from what Quenda has shown already, Chelsea could indeed be about to welcome yet another Estevao to Maresca’s ranks.

Rizwan's ODI captaincy in doubt ahead of Pakistan's series against South Africa

Pakistan’s selection committee will meet on Monday to make a decision on the matter

Danyal Rasool18-Oct-2025

Pakistan’s results under Mohammad Rizwan have dwindled despite his form not dropping off•AFP/Getty Images

Mohammad Rizwan’s status as Pakistan ODI captain has been plunged into doubt by the PCB after a statement released by the board said it was “yet to finalise a captain” for the upcoming series against South Africa. The PCB said the white-ball head coach Mike Hesson had called for a meeting of the selection committee to make a final decision on the ODI captaincy.The statement made no mention of Rizwan, who was appointed by the PCB last year and led the side to ODI series victories in Australia, Zimbabwe and South Africa. Results in 2025 have been less attractive with a loss in a home tri-series final to New Zealand, an early exit from the Champions Trophy, and an away series defeat in the West Indies.While there had been speculation about the fate of Rizwan, no specific cricketing reason was provided for throwing his role into uncertainty. There has been no obvious drop in batting or keeping form; Rizwan is the second highest scorer for Pakistan in ODIs this year with 361 runs at over 36. In Test cricket, the other format he is currently selected for, he scored 75 as part of a 163-run stand with Salman Ali Agha that helped Pakistan take a 1-0 lead against South Africa in the ongoing Test series.Shaheen Shah Afridi previously had to vacate T20I captaincy for Babar Azam•AFP/Getty Images

While Rizwan has not officially been removed yet, the statement makes it all but inevitable. It was a fate suffered by Shaheen Shah Afridi in T20Is shortly after Mohsin Naqvi took over as PCB chairperson. At the time, the newly appointed Afridi had captained just one series, but when asked about him at a press conference, Naqvi pointedly declined to confirm he would continue the role.”Even I don’t know who the captain will be,” Naqvi said at the time. “Whether Shaheen continues or a new captain comes in will be determined after the fitness camp. There are a number of technical factors we will consider, the details of which I do not want to go into. We want a long-term solution, whether it’s Shaheen or a new man. And then we intend to stick by that man, instead of just changing a captain just because you lose a match.”A week later, Shaheen was sacked as captain and replaced by Babar Azam, with further controversy when the PCB published a statement on Shaheen’s behalf which he declined ever having written or approved. While an uneasy truce was reached between player and board at the time, ESPNcricinfo understands that relationship has improved.Hesson is not technically in charge of determining or appointing the ODI captain, and does not sit on the selection committee. However, that Naqvi appears to have agreed to put the matter to the selection and advisory committees either reflects the influence Hesson currently enjoys at the PCB, or the fact the board was not averse to a change in the first place anyway. The committee will convene on Monday, according to the PCB, with a decision expected then.

Neymar issues public apology after giving away controversial penalty vs Mirassol as Santos remain mired in relegation dogfight

Neymar issued a public apology after conceding a controversial penalty in a game that has kept Santos in a relegation dogfight. The Brazilian superstar was in action on Wednesday evening against Mirassol. An eventful outing saw him open the scoring inside four minutes, before being responsible for presenting Serie A rivals with an opportunity to level the scores.

  • Drop zone: Neymar trying to steer Santos towards safety

    While turning from hero to villain in the space of an hour, Neymar was able to help Santos to what could be another priceless point. Their meeting with Mirassol ended 1-1. Stalemate on home soil has put little distance between them and the drop zone, but a one-point advantage continues to be held over Vitoria.

    Santos sit 16th in the table, with collective heads just above water. They have just four fixtures left to take in this season. Neymar will be desperate to see them to safety, as questions continue to be asked of his future.

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  • Eventful outing: Neymar scored & conceded a penalty

    The 33-year-old returned to his roots in January, with a second stint at his boyhood club being agreed after seeing his lucrative contract at Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal torn up. Having spent 12 months on the sidelines with ACL damage, injury issues have been difficult to shake in South America.

    Neymar has, however, figured in Santos’ last four fixtures and remains a talismanic presence. He got them off to the perfect start against Mirassol. He also thought that a chance to step up to the spot himself had been earned when Alvaro Barreal was felled inside the area. The referee awarded a spot-kick, but Santos’ Argentine striker was offside.

    Neymar was then involved in more penalty drama on the hour mark. Reinaldo took a tumble under pressure from Neymar, who swung a leg at the ball long after it had gone. The match referee was called to review the incident on a pitchside monitor.

    He determined that Neymar’s challenge was reckless and poorly timed, as he kicked through the legs of Reinaldo. The Mirassol full-back stepped up from 12 yards himself and, despite Gabriel Brazao getting a touch to his effort, was able to bring the scores level.

    Instagram

  • What Neymar said in penalty concession apology

    The game finished tied, meaning that the points were shared. Neymar was happy enough with that outcome, but felt the need to apologise for his penalty concession on social media – with more questions being asked of the match officials in Brazilian football.

    He posted on Instagram: “We face one of the best teams in the championship… We gave everything to try for victory and I think we deserved it a lot. Congratulations to the team and the fans who once again made it a beautiful party! We continue together at this final stage, every point, every detail will be important!

    “Note: sorry about the penalty… There are so many different criteria that I don't even know what to say, just accept! THE FIGHT DOESN'T STOP, GO SANTOS !!”

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    No.10 role & Messi reunion: What next for Neymar?

    Carlo Ancelotti will have been among the interested observers of Neymar’s latest outing. The Italian coach, who has continued to overlook Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer when it comes to an international recall, has spoken of wanting to see Neymar deployed as a No.10 by his domestic employers.

    He has said: “I think he needs to play more centrally, not as a winger, because wingers in today's football are players you need to help defensively as well. When you play a little more centrally, the defensive work is much less than when you play as a winger. And I also think that a very talented player, closer to the goal, has more opportunities to score goals. [False 9] could be his ideal position.”

    That was the case for Neymar against Mirassol. Further appearances in that playmaking post will give him the chance to catch the eye. His contract is, however, running down towards free agency at the end of the calendar year.

    Having been linked with other teams in South America, a reunion with former ‘MSN’ Barcelona team-mates Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez in MLS with Inter Miami has also been speculated on.

Thomas Frank's grand plan for Dominic Solanke revealed amid "inside" Tottenham belief

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has a grand plan for striker Dominic Solanke once he returns from injury, contrary to other reports.

In the last few days, Spurs’ club-record signing has actually been linked with the January exit door.

The 28-year-old’s last appearance came during a brief cameo in Tottenham’s 2-0 win away to Man City at the very start of the campaign, but he’s been sidelined with a niggling ankle problem ever since.

Dejan Kulusevski

Knee

22/11/2025

James Maddison

ACL

01/06/2026

Radu Dragusin

Knee

22/11/2025

Ben Davies

Thigh

23/11/2025

Kota Takai

Ankle/Foot

08/11/2025

Yves Bissouma

Ankle/Foot

08/11/2025

Wilson Odobert

Abdominal

01/11/2025

Cristian Romero

Groin

01/11/2025

Destiny Udogie

Knee

08/11/2025

Dominic Solanke

Ankle

08/11/2025

Archie Gray

Calf/Shin/Heel

06/11/2025

via Premier Injuries

Solanke underwent minor surgery to fix the issue, with Frank’s forward still working his way back to full fitness ahead of a tough run of fixtures.

Despite playing just 49 minutes in total under Spurs’ new boss, reports have surprisingly suggested that Frank isn’t particularly impressed by Solanke and could look to sell the England international.

Solanke’s inconsistency and fitness issues have raised some doubts among supporters about his suitability as Tottenham’s long-term first-choice striker, with Juventus striker Dušan Vlahović reportedly emerging as a prime alternative as the Serbian’s contract expires at the end of this season.

Links to Vlahovic could raise some questions about Solanke’s future in N17, but according to reporter Dean Jones, the former Bournemouth star shouldn’t be too worried about his place.

Thomas Frank's grand plan for Dominic Solanke at Tottenham

Jones, writing for TEAMtalk, says that Frank is preparing to make Solanke the focal point of his attack once the striker returns from injury, with growing “inside” belief that he can add a fresh and “new” dimension to their attacking play.

Despite Solanke’s challenges, there’s a clear sense among Tottenham’s coaching staff and insiders that he has the qualities to lead the line effectively.

The return of Solanke is eagerly anticipated by Frank, with hopes that he will elevate Tottenham’s attacking threat in crucial matches.

The delay in his comeback may also be put down to Spurs adopting a more cautious approach with the number nine’s overall fitness as they look to avoid any setbacks.

Mathys Tel, bar his goal away to Leeds United, has struggled to replace Solanke overall, while Richarlison endured another night to forget during Tottenham’s 2-0 defeat at Newcastle in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday.

Last season, Solanke proved his worth by scoring 16 goals across all competitions, finishing as Spurs’ second top scorer behind Brennan Johnson. This goal tally underscores his importance to the team’s attack and highlights the threat he poses when fully fit.

Solanke’s presence allows Frank to build the attack around a proven goalscorer, providing a sense of stability to the entire forward line.

The ‘underrated’ forward’s ability to deliver crucial goals will be vital, especially in tight games where a clinical finish can make all the difference.

Jamie O'Hara takes aim at "non league" Tottenham player in defeat to Newcastle

Maresca must drop 5/10 Chelsea star who had fewer touches than Sanchez

Sometimes a game is just that for a club; other times, it feels far more consequential, and for Chelsea, their draw against Arsenal on Sunday evening falls into the latter category.

Enzo Maresca’s side went into the top-of-the-table clash with a point to prove, and while they didn’t win, they certainly proved it.

The Blues were all over the Premier League leaders from minute one, and even with a man down, continued to go toe to toe with the Gunners.

However, while most of the team put in stellar performances and more than secured their places in the starting lineup for the next game, there was one Chelsea star who had a middling day at the office.

The Chelsea stars who cemented their places in the team

As if there was ever really any doubt anyway, Reece James once again demonstrated that he has to start every game he is fit for, be that at right-back or in midfield.

Chalkboard

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

On top of providing the assist for the Blues’ goal, the unplayable captain also won 11 of 12 duels, played two key passes, won four fouls and completed three of four crosses.

In all, as presenter Olivia Buzaglo put it, it was a “gargantuan” performance from the Cobham graduate.

Speaking of academy graduates, another player who now has to be one of the first names on Maresca’s team sheets is Trevoh Chalobah.

The 26-year-old once-capped international was monstrous at the back against the Gunners, won 100% of his tackles, made six clearances, recovered the ball four times, won five of seven duels and didn’t get dribbled past once.

As if that wasn’t enough, he also rose to meet James’ corner and head it home early in the second half.

Staying at the back, Robert Sanchez again proved that he’s transformed from a liability between the sticks into one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League.

Finally, while he didn’t get a goal or assist, Pedro Neto was undoubtedly the West Londoners’ best attacker on the night.

On top of doing his best to help out in defence, he was a constant threat on the counter and provided his side with a vital outball to relieve pressure towards the end of the game.

However, while most of the team should be starting the next game based on their performances, there was one Chelsea star who probably played himself out of the side.

The Chelsea player Maresca must axe

It seems harsh given the teams’ performance and the fact they held on with ten men, but there was one Chelsea player who underwhelmed on Sunday evening: Joao Pedro.

Now, there is absolutely no denying the Brazilian’s immense talent, nor the fact that, come the end of the season, fans will probably be more than happy with his efforts.

However, what is equally true is that, against Arsenal, the former Brighton & Hove Albion gem was really quite disappointing.

Even before the hosts went a man down, he offered little in attack, and when he was presented with a golden opportunity in the first half, he couldn’t sort his feet out in time. Joao Pedro

Then in the second 45, it quickly became clear that he was not holding the ball well enough for his faster teammates to counterattack, and he was therefore replaced by Liam Delap, who was far better at that.

Unsurprisingly, the watching press were not all that impressed with what they saw. For example, football.london’s Bobby Vincent gave him a 4/10 match rating and wrote that it ‘just wasn’t his day.’

That may sound a little harsh, but the 24-year-old’s match statistics prove it’s not.

Minutes

55′

Expected Goals

0.24

Goals

0

Total Shots

1

Big Chances Missed

1

Touches

21

Lost Possession

8

Total Passes

6/8

Ground Duels (Won)

5 (2)

Aerial Duels (Won)

3 (2)

Fouls

1

In his 55 minutes, the Brazilian took just a single shot, missed a big chance, took 21 touches – 43 fewer than Sanchez -, lost the ball eight times, failed in two of three dribbles and completed just six passes.

Ultimately, while Pedo is an excellent player, he was really quite disappointing against Arsenal and with Delap ready to step in, he should be dropped for Wednesday’s game.

Chelsea star who saved Caicedo is their "most underappreciated player"

The underrated Chelsea ace made sure Caicedo’s red card didn’t cost Enzo Maresca’s men against Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Nov 30, 2025

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