All posts by h716a5.icu

This weekend is a critical time for Wolverhampton Wanderers. The Old Gold have been in poor form for the majority of this season, and are second bottom of the Premier League after 11 games. Defensively, they have been suspect, and have let in 27 goals thus far; no side has conceded more.

However, there was an upturn in form before the November international break. Wolves beat Southampton 2-0 thanks to a goal and assist from star man Matheus Cunha, to earn their first three points of the season.

It was a win that reduced the pressure off under-pressure manager Gary O’Neil, who will be hoping to have a couple of key players back from injury.

Wolves team news

The Midlands club travel down to West London to face high-flying Fulham on Saturday afternoon. Marco Silva’s side currently sit seventh in the table and are unbeaten in their last three games, which includes victories in their last two.

Several players have struggled with injury of late for the Old Gold. Of those, a few are some way from a return to first-team action, which has been a blow for the relegation-threatened side.

However, O’Neil might be able to count on one of his key defenders ahead of the trip to Craven Cottage this weekend. Santiago Bueno withdrew from international duty with Uruguay last week following an injury.

There was a positive update from the Wolves boss in his pre-match press conference, via journalist Liam Keen. O’Neil explained the defender will travel down to London with the squad. That is good news for the Midlands club given he has played 90 minutes in each of their last four games.

The Old Gold boss was vague with his other updates but did allude to the fact some other key players might return to the first team fold soon, including Hwang Hee-chan. The striker has missed the last nine matches but did train before their clash with Southampton. O’Neil explained that a few players need fitness tests but he is “hopeful” they will be fit.

Chalkboard

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

O’Neil also discussed another of his players in the press conference, in a position where competition for places is tough. However, he could make a big impact if given the nod against Fulham.

Who could start vs. Fulham

The man in question here is Brazilian midfielder Andre. The Wolves manager praised the Brazil international in his press conference and said he is “working very hard” and still getting used to the Premier League. He also explained “he will be big” as the season goes along.

So far, opportunities have been limited for the summer signing from Fluminense. The £21m midfielder has played just seven times this term, featuring for just 364 minutes in the top flight. He has not started since the 2-1 home defeat to Manchester City and has been an unused substitute for the last two games.

However, Saturday afternoon’s clash at Craven Cottage could be the perfect place for Andre to show his worth. The Old Gold are set to come up against the in-form Emile Smith Rowe, who has been fantastic for the Cottagers since moving from Arsenal in the summer. He has three goals and two assists to his name in 11 top-flight games.

If he was to start, it could be in place of Mario Lemina. The Old Gold skipper has been a first-choice in midfield this season, but has only played 90 minutes in one of the last three games. It remains to be seen if he will keep his place in the starting lineup against Fulham.

It could be the perfect game for Wolves’ number seven, with the chance to put a dent in Smith Rowe’s sparkling form. The Brazilian midfielder has already shown his impressive ball-winning capabilities this term and could put them to good use against Fulham. As per Sofascore, Andre has won three duels and made 3.6 ball recoveries per game this term.

Stat (per game)

Number

Mins

54

Touches

32.6

Pass accuracy

95%

Ball recoveries

3.6

Tackles + interceptions

1.7

Ground duels won

3

Ground duel win %

66%

Adapting to the Premier League can be tough for some players. It is a unique league in many ways, not least because of the speed the game is played. Andre, described as “high-quality” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, seems like he is getting used to it.

However, a start against the Cottagers ahead of Lemina, and a good performance against an in-form attacker could be exactly what he needs. It would help both his confidence on a personal level, and be crucial to his team as they look to pick up another vital win.

Wolves can axe O'Neil for "ambitious" boss who was unbeaten in his last job

It would be an ambitious appointment from Wolves

1 ByJoe Nuttall Nov 20, 2024

Jake Lehmann made 102 in the first innings and Liam Scott took 5 for 46 but South Australia opted not to chase 253 off 50 overs on the final day

AAP05-Mar-2022South Australia declined a potentially season-reviving run chase and settled for a draw in their penultimate-round Sheffield Shield match against Queensland in Brisbane.Set a challenging 253 off 50 overs at the Gabba, SA rarely showed interest in chasing down the target and, despite needing a win to stay in touch on the Shield ladder, were 3-115 when the match was called to an early end after 37 overs.Opener Jake Weatherald scored the bulk of the runs with a watchful 60 not out off 112 balls. SA were 38 off 11 overs when the second wicket fell – both scalps claimed by Xavier Bartlett (2-30). Opener and debutant captain Henry Hunt scored 15 at the top of the order and Jake Carder contributed 11 before the run-rate further slowed.Earlier in the day, Queensland scored at 4.5 run per over in compiling a second innings score of 191. Sam Truloff top-scored with a quickfire 64, while young bowler Liam Scott picked up career-best figures (5-46).SA only completed their first innings early on day four with Jake Lehmann hitting 102 in 9(d)-244.

How much does Riyad Mahrez earn playing in the Saudi Pro League following his 2023 move from Manchester City?

Riyad Mahrez exploded onto the footballing scene after he led Leicester City to the Premier League title in the 2015016 season and earned himself a big-money move to Manchester City, where he once more became an important part of his team.

But the Algerian star made a move to Al Ahli in 2023 after spending five seasons at the Etihad. Considering Mahrez's talent and ability, the Saudi side had to spend huge sums of money in order to get his signature and he currently stands as one of the top earners at the club and across the league playing for Al Ahli.

But exactly how much does he earn playing for them? Let's find out!

GOAL delved into the numbers from Capology and found out!

*

Riyad Mahrez's salary in numbers

Mahrez is earning a ton under his current contract at Al Ahli. The Algerian makes £841,708 ($1,087,460) on a weekly basis while his annual salary reaches close to £44 million ($57m), making him the highest earner of the squad.

Player

Nationality

Weekly wages GBP

Weekly wages USD

Annual wages GBP

Annual wages USD

Riyad Mahrez

Algerian

£841,708

$1,087,460

£43,768,818

$56,547,915

AdvertisementGetty Images SportTop earners at Al Ahli

As afromentioned, Mahrez is the top earner at Al Ahli.

Following the Algerian is English striker Ivan Toney, who moved to Saudi from Brentford in 2024.

Meanwhile, former Liverpool attacker Roberto Firmino makes the list at number three, followed by former Barcelona and AC Milan midfielder Franck Kessie.

Top 5 highest paid players at Al Ahli

Player

Nationality

Weekly wages GBP

Weekly wages USD

Annual wages GBP

Annual wages USD

Riyad Mahrez

Algerian

£841,708

$1,087,460

£43,768,818

$56,547,915

Ivan Toney

English

£411,340

$531,439

£21,389,704

$27,634,815

Roberto Firmino

Brazilian

£306,369

$395,819

£15,931,179

$20,582,575

Franck Kessie

Ivorian

£225,745

$291,656

£11,738,764

$15,166,108

Gabri Veiga

Spanish

£193,496

$249,991

£10,061,797

$12,999,521

Top earners in Saudi Pro League

With a contract crossing a million dollars on a weekly basis, Mahrez currently sits as the third top-earner in the Saudi Pro League.

Acquiring the top two spots are former Real Madrid attackers Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema with salaries beyond comprehension for a footballer.

Meanwhile, acquiring the fourth and fifth spot are Sengalese internatinals Sadio Mane and Kalidou Koulibaly, respectively.

Top 5 highest paid players in the Saudi Pro League

Player

Club

Weekly wages GBP

Weekly wages USD

Annual wages GBP

Annual wages USD

Cristiano Ronaldo

Al Nassr

£3,224,935

$4,166,513

£167,696,622

$216,658,460

Karim Benzema

Al Ittihad

£1,612,468

$2,083,57

£83,848,311

$108,329,340

Riyad Mahrez

Al Ahli

£841,708

$1,087,460

£43,768,818

$56,547,915

Sadio Mane

Al Nassr

£644,987

$833,303

£433,539,324

$43,331,736

Kalidou Koulibaly

Al Hilal

£559,526

$722,890

£25,095,364

$37,590,281

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

Al-NassrHighest paid players in the world

The top earners in Saudi defenitely earn insane sums of money in the league, but how do they fare in the highest-paid players across the world?

Well, it turns out that the top five of the Saudi Pro League are also the top earners across the footballing world, even leaving behind some of the best and oldest clubs from Europe.

This cements the financial power of the Saudi League and the potential to become a top league in upcoming years.

Top 5 highest paid players in the world

Player

Nationality

Weekly wages in GBP

Weekly wages in USD

Annual wages in GBP

Annual wages in USD

Cristiano Ronaldo

Portuguese

£3,224,935

$4,166,513

£167,696,622

$216,658,680

Karim Benzema

French

£1,612,468

$2,083,257

£83,848,311

$108,329,340

Riyadh Mahrez

Algerian

£841,708

$1,087,460

43,768,818

$56,547,915

Sadio Mane

Senegalese

£644,987

$833,303

£33,539,324

$43,331,736

Kalidou Koulibaly

Senegalese

£559,526

$722,890

£29,095,364

$37,590,281

Liverpool are riding on the crest of a wave right now, and they face Manchester City at precisely the right time.

While the Anfield side are currently on a 15-game unbeaten run across all competitions, City have failed to win any of their previous six games, going through their most difficult period under Pep Guardiola.

The Reds hold an eight point lead at the top of the table and should Arne Slot’s side go on to defeat City this afternoon, it could put another dent in Guardiola’s title ambitions.

Manchester City’s defensive frailties

Since their win over Southampton on October 26, the club have conceded 17 goals in just six games, scoring only seven times during that time period.

Guardiola’s defenders certainly struggled, most notably Kyle Walker, who was helpless against Tottenham Hotspur last week as they ran riot, scoring four without reply to inflict one of the heaviest defeats the former Barcelona manager has endured.

Date

Competition

Result

26/11/2024

Champions League

Drew 3-3 with Feyenoord

23/11/2024

Premier League

Lost 4-0 to Spurs

9/11/2024

Premier League

Lost 2-1 to Brighton

5/11/2024

Champions League

Lost 4-1 to Sporting CP

2/11/2024

Premier League

Lost 2-1 to Bournemouth

30/10/2024

Carabao Cup

Lost 2-1 to Spurs

Walker may have won four of his five total duels contested, yet the right-back made just one tackle and one clearance in the defeat as he was run ragged by Heung-min Son for Spurs, who shone on the left wing.

If Liverpool aim to secure all three points, then targeting the 34-year-old could be one way of piling on more misery for City this weekend, that’s for sure.

Who will Slot unleash on the left flank, however?

The Liverpool star who can terrorise Walker

There is no denying how impressive Luis Diaz has been this term, registering 11 goal contributions – nine goals and two assists – in just 18 matches under Slot.

Against Real Madrid in midweek, Diaz wasn’t quite at his sparkling best, missing two big chances, winning just two of his nine ground duels and losing possession ten times during the clash.

Cody Gakpo entered the game with 20 minutes left, taking over from Darwin Núñez, and he ended up getting on the scoresheet along with succeeding with 100% of his dribbles and making one key pass.

Although he was deployed through the middle against the La Liga side, perhaps Slot could unleash the Dutchman on the left flank so he can terrorise Walker this afternoon.

In the Premier League last season, Gakpo ranked in the top 15% for successful take-ons per 90 (1.69) and in the top 28% for progressive carries per 90 (2.35), clearly indicating that he could be a major threat out wide for the Reds.

During the 2022 World Cup, Statman Dave hailed his performance against Qatar as “unstoppable” and if he can replicate this sort of form, Walker is in for a rough 90 minutes, that’s for sure.

The Anfield side have a wonderful chance to stretch their advantage at the top of the table with a victory against City. If they do, then Slot’s men could be difficult to catch in the Premier League this season.

Liverpool eyeing move for "amazing" ace who stole show in front of scouts

He could become their replacement for Mohamed Salah.

1 ByTom Cunningham Nov 30, 2024

Leeds United and the 49ers are interested in a move to sign an exciting attacker in January, according to a new report. The Whites picked up an impressive win on Tuesday, beating Middlesbrough 3-1 at Elland Road, which has lifted them to second place, a point behind leaders Sheffield United.

Major update shared on "painful" new injury to Leeds star ahead of Preston

One of Leeds’ star men took a nasty looking knock against Middlesbrough this week.

ByBrett Worthington Dec 12, 2024 Leeds United news

It’s been a good week of results for Daniel Farke and his team, but it has come at a cost, as the German revealed that Junior Firpo is going to be out for six weeks after he suffered a hamstring injury, which he describes as “heartbreaking”.

Fellow defender Joe Rodon also suffered a “painful” blow on Tuesday, as Farke revealed after the game, which could put him in doubt for the game against Preston. He said: “He was hit on his knee, and I think there’s a bruise, and it’s pretty painful. But he’s also a warrior, and we couldn’t afford to lose him.”

But there was good news for the Whites, as they were able to welcome back full-back Sam Byram, who played 85 minutes in the win over Boro. They also welcomed back midfielder Ethan Ampadu, who came on to replace Byram and see out the final moments of the match.

Leeds interested in move to sign Louie Barry

According to TEAMtalk, Leeds United have joined the race to sign Louie Barry from Aston Villa in January. The 21-year-old is currently on loan at League One side Stockport County from the Premier League side and has been in impressive form throughout the campaign.

The young forward has been with the Midlands side since 2020 but has only made one appearance in the first team, as he’s spent most of his time on loan elsewhere. Barry was at Stockport during the 2023/24 season and helped them seal promotion to the third tier, and it was agreed in the summer that he would rejoin them for this campaign.

He has since bagged 14 goals, making him League One’s top goalscorer this season, and that has alerted Villa to the idea of sending him on loan to a higher-level team in the New Year. Leeds have now joined the race to sign Barry on loan in January, but they are not the only team keen on a transfer.

Apps

42

Goals

24

Assists

5

The report states that a number of their Championship rivals are also keen on securing his signature in 2025. It was reported earlier this week that Middlesbrough were the front runners to secure the signing of Barry ahead of Derby County and Sheffield Wednesday. Villa do have a release clause in Barry’s loan deal with Stockport, which means they can terminate the loan without paying a fee and then can send him elsewhere for the second half of the campaign.

Leeds do already have players like Daniel James, Wilfried Gnonto, Largie Ramazani and Manor Solomon who play out wide, but the latter could be recalled by parent club Tottenham Hotspur in January if they feel he isn’t being used enough.

Wyatt added 116 with Dunkley before Ecclestone’s career-best ODI figures polished off South Africa

Annesha Ghosh31-Mar-2022Few occasions can be more fitting than a World Cup knockout match for the defending champions to deliver a perfect game. Against South Africa in the 2022 ODI World Cup semi-final, England achieved that feat with an emphatic 137-run win in Christchurch.Danni Wyatt’s 129, Sophia Dunkley’s 60 and a career-best six-for by Sophie Ecclestone orchestrated the fifth straight win in England’s astounding turnaround at this World Cup and powered them into Sunday’s final against favourites Australia.Anya Shrubsole’s two early strikes, too, played a pivotal role in England’s successful defence of 293, as they skittled South Africa out for 156 in 38 overs. In a rematch of the 2017 World Cup semi-final, Thursday’s victory extended England’s incredible comeback in the tournament after three consecutive losses and sealed their sixth appearance in the final in 12 editions of the ODI World Cup.Related

South Africa were not good enough and they know it – now, they will try to get better

'GOAT' Ecclestone, Wyatt at the forefront of England's stunning turnaround

Healy and Haynes, the fine line between desire and deed, and a date with World Cup destiny

Dunkley on England's comeback: 'Proud of ourselves in the fight'

South Africa were no match with the bat or in the field as Wyatt and Dunkley’s 116-run partnership ensured they would need to pull off the highest successful chase in Women’s ODIs in their pursuit of a maiden appearance in a world tournament final. Against an opposition that consigned them to a heartbreaking loss in the semi-final in Bristol five years ago, South Africa bore the brunt of slipshod fielding. Five dropped catches off Wyatt alone meant the England opener got lifelines on 22, 36, 77, 116 and 117 en route to her maiden World Cup century.Wyatt’s fifth-wicket stand with Dunkley steered England to the second-highest total in a 50-over World Cup knockout game after South Africa sent them in in slightly overcast and windy conditions at the Hagley Oval. Dunkley, who scripted a match-winning rescue act with a fifty in England’s final league-stage game on Sunday, compiled a confident 72-ball 60 before Ecclestone carted three back-to-back fours off Shabnim Ismail in the 50th over during her 11-ball 24 at No. 8.South Africa started off reasonably well in their new-ball burst on a fresh surface which had a fair amount of bounce, carry and movement. A well-directed outswinger from Marizanne Kapp had opener Tammy Beaumont edge to keeper Trisha Chetty in the fourth over.Masabata Klaas created an opportunity off the first ball of her spell. Wyatt leaned in and offered a thick edge to first-slip Lizelle Lee, who couldn’t hold on to a low catch and the ball raced away for four. Wyatt bludgeoned an authoritative cover drive one ball later and England finished the powerplay on 44 for 1.Captain Heather Knight, who scratched her way to a 19-ball 1, was then adjudged lbw via the DRS off an Ayabonga Khaka inswinger. Nat Sciver initially proved up to the task of keeping up the tempo when she joined Wyatt in the 13th over. But her stay was cut short to an 18-ball 15 as Ismail picked up the first of her three wickets, with a bouncer, reducing England to 77 for 3.Danni Wyatt scored 129 after surviving five dropped catches•ICC via Getty ImagesWyatt responded to South Africa’s ploy aimed at targeting one of her strong suits with aplomb, early in her innings. Their quicks sent down a barrage of short-and-wide deliveries, backed up with a well-patrolled arc between extra-cover and backward point. But it didn’t deter Wyatt from unleashing the cut at will, her most productive shot on the day, which fetched her 34 runs.With No. 5 Amy Jones, she led a sizeable rebuild, their 51-ball 49 stand taking England past 125 inside 26 overs. Striking at over 90 for the best part of the innings helped Wyatt ensure England’s run rate was never quite a concern in batting-friendly conditions, though the regular loss of wickets was.After Chloe Tryon took an agile catch running back to dismiss Jones for 28 off 32, Dunkley superbly complemented Wyatt, who reached her half-century off 56 balls and her hundred with a single off the 97th delivery of her innings. The England dressing room lauded her effort with a standing ovation as Wyatt raised her fist upon reaching the milestone. When she was dismissed in the 45th over, congratulatory pats on the England opener’s back and handshakes from the South Africans came thick and fast.England rounded out a supercharged performance with the bat with 75 runs in their final 10 overs. It wasn’t long before Shrubsole, who hit the winning runs against South Africa in the 2017 World Cup semi-final and was the Player of the Final in that edition, further swung the game their way. She took a return catch to remove Laura Wolvaardt, the leading run-getter of this World Cup, for a duck off the second ball of her spell and had the other opener, Lee, caught by Sciver in the next over.Sophie Ecclestone gestures after dismissing Shabnim Ismail•Getty ImagesOn a belter of a surface that had plenty for the quicks to capitalise on early, Kate Cross was the next to strike, bowling captain Sune Luus, who was making her 100th ODI appearance alongside Lee, through her defences. It was largely an Ecclestone show thereafter as the ODI No. 1 bowler ran through the middle and lower order with wily variations.The top-score from the South African line-up was 30. With seven wickets down inside 30 overs, even a miracle seemed unlikely to avert a second elimination at the hands of England in a World Cup knockout.Either side of completing her maiden international five-for, Ecclestone sent Ismail off with a finger-on-the-lip celebration and had Jones stump Chetty for her sixth wicket. For a team that became the first in women’s ODI World Cup history to make the final after three consecutive defeats at the start of their campaign, it was fitting that England’s win marked the first-ever women’s ODI to feature a century and a six-wicket-haul.

Chivas were eliminated in the Round of 16 of the Champions Cup by América – and it did not sit well with the team's owner

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

Chivas were beaten 4-0 by América in Champions Cup

El Rebaño is in 10th place in the Clausura 2025

Chivas last won an Liga MX title was in the Clausura 2017

Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱Getty Images SportWHAT HAPPENED?

After Chivas' recent elimination by América in the Round of 16 of the Champions Cup, Amaury Vergara, the team's owner, said that Chivas must regain the position of "the biggest team in Mexico" – status currently held by their archrival América, with three consecutive Liga MX championships.

"My dream is the same as my dad: Chivas has to be the best team in Mexico, every day, every single day," Vergara said. "And just so you see that I'm not all talk, we are going to make it happen, we are going to make it happen. You'll see, as you say, I swear on my mother if we don't."

AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Things have not gone as Vergara would have liked since he took over the ownership of Chivas. The team is nearing seven years without a Liga MX title, and the signings made by the management have not worked out.

Amaury bet on Fernando Hierro and Veljko Paunovic last year to steer the project in the right direction, but neither worked. Just this season, they brought in Spanish coach Oscar García, but he was also dismissed.

Chivas is currently in 10th place with 15 points and was recently eliminated from the Champions Cup by América. Can Amaury bring joy to his fans in the short term?

Getty Images SportDID YOU KNOW?

Chivas' last international title was in 2018, when they won the Supercopa MX. On that occasion, the team coached by Matías Almeyda defeated Tigres UANL in the final, winning the trophy that faces the Liga MX champion against the Copa MX champion.

This title marked the last time Chivas won an international trophy.

Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR CHIVAS?

Chivas and Gerardo Espinoza will need to turn the page this weekend when Chivas visits FC Juárez on Saturday for Matchday 12 of the Clausura 2025. El Rebaño is in 10th place in the standings and would barely be qualifying for the play-In if the tournament.

Everything you need to know about Manchester United loanee Maarcus Rashford's salary numbers at Aston Villa

Having fallen out with new Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, Marcus Rashford was bound to leave Old Trafford, with big clubs like Barcelona and Napoli showing interest.

However, the English forward decided to stay in the Premier League, joining Unai Emery's Aston Villa on a loan deal.

Rashford earns a pretty hefty salary at Villa Park and is one of the top earners in the squad, but exactly how much does he earn?

GOAL delved into the numbers with Capology and found out!

*

Marcus Rashford’s wages at Aston Villa in numbers

Under his current contract at Aston Villa, Rashford earns £225,000 ($290,762) on a weekly basis

Meanwhile his annual salary scales up to £11.7 million ($15.1m), making him the highest earner at Villa Park.

Player

Nationality

Weekly wages in GBP

Weekly wages in USD

Annual wages in GBP

Annual wages in USD

Marcus Rashford

English

  £225,000

$290,762

£11,700,000

$15,119,614

AdvertisementGetty Images SportTop earners at Aston Villa

Rashford is the highest-paid player at Villa by quite some distance, being the only player in the squad to earn over £10 million.

Following the English forward are three players, Boubacar Kamara, Youri Tielemans, and Emiliano Martinez, all on identical wages.

Finally, rounding off the list at number five is defensive midfielder Amadou Onana.

Player

Nationality

Weekly wages in GBP

Weekly wages in USD

Annual wages in GBP

Annual wages in USD

Marcus Rashford

English

£225,000

$290,762

£11,700,000

$15,119,614

Boubacar Kamara

French

£150,000

$193,841

£7,800,000

$10,079,743

Youri Tielemans

Belgian

£150,000

$193,841

£7,800,000

$10,079,743

Emiliano Martinez

Argentine

£150,000

$193,841

£7,800,000

$10,079,743

Amadou Onana

Belgian

£140,000

$180,918

£7,280,000 

$9,407,760

Top 5 earners in the Premier League

None of the Aston Villa players make it into the top-five earners list across the league.

Manchester City’s Erling Haaland sits at the top of the list having recently signed a nine-year contract, keeping him at the Etihad up until 2034. Following Haaland is yet another City star in Kevin De Bruyne, while Egyptian winger Mohamed Salah makes the cut at number three.

Player

Nationality

Weekly wages in GBP

Weekly wages in USD

Annual wages in GBP

Annual wage sin USD

Erling Haaland

Norwegian

£525,000

$678,444

£27,300,000

$35,279,099

Kevin De Bruyne

Belgian

£400,000

$516,910

£20,800,000

$26,879,314

Mohamed Salah

Egyptian

£350,000

$452,296

£18,200,000

$23,519,400

Casemiro

Brazilian

£350,000

$452,296

£18,200,000

$23,519,400

Jack Grealish

English

£300,000

$387,682

£15,600,000

$20,159,485

Getty Images SportHighest paid players in the world

Despite the astronomical wages in the Premier League, neither of the players make the cut when it comes to the highest earners across world football.

At the top sits all-time top goalscorer of the Champions League Cristiano Ronaldo, who currently plays his football for Al Nassr. He is followed by his former Real Madrid attack partner Karim Benzema.

Former Manchester City player Riyad Mahrez makes his appearance at number three while Senegalese internationals Sadio Mane and Kalidou Koulibaly round off the list at fourth and fifth spot respectively.

Player

Club

Weekly wages GBP

Weekly wages USD

Annual wages GBP

Annual wages USD

Cristiano Ronaldo

Al Nassr

£3,224,935

$4,166,513

£167,696,622

$215,658,680

Karim Benzema

Al Ittihad

£1,612,468

$2,083,257

£83,848,311

$108,329,340

Riyad Mahrez

Al Ahli

£1,003,846

$1,087,460

£43,768,818

$56,547,915

Sadio Mane

Al Nassr

£644,987

$833,033

£33,539,324

$43,331,736

Kalidou Koulibaly

Al Hilal

£559,526

$722,890

£29,095,364

$37,590,281

Crystal Palace have experienced a slight turnaround in form, now unbeaten in their last four Premier League games, which has seen the Eagles rise from the relegation zone.

In those four games, Oliver Glasner’s side have drawn three times, including against last season’s champions, Manchester City. Their one victory came against Ipswich, winning 1-0 with a goal from Jean-Philippe Mateta securing all three points.

The Eagles’ next game is against Brighton at the Amex Stadium, and Glasner will need to prepare his side in order to stop the high-flying Seagulls, who are currently seventh in the Premier League.

In order to stop Brighton, Glasner will have to ensure his defensive scheme is correct, and luckily for him, he has the perfect right-side combination to deal with Kaoru Mitoma.

Why Crystal Palace need to stop Kaoru Mitoma

Mitoma has made 16 appearances for Brighton this season, scoring three goals and providing two assists.

The 27-year-old is averaging 5.39 progressive carries and 3.40 progressive passes. He is also averaging 1.49 key passes per 90, and 1.35 passes into the penalty area, being a primary creator for the Seagulls.

Therefore, stopping their main hub of creation would go a long way for Palace in stunting Brighton, and this is the right side of defence Glasner must deploy in order to do that.

Chalkboard

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

Crystal Palace's right-side combination

In recent weeks, Trevoh Chalobah, who is on loan from Chelsea this season, has been playing as the right-sided central defender in a back three.

The 25-year-old defender has made ten appearances for the Eagles since joining, scoring one goal, and contributing to two clean sheets in 883 minutes played.

Supporting him on the right is Daniel Munoz, who has been in excellent form as the right wingback, scoring two goals in his last three games, and showing his defensive qualities, making 11 tackles in the game against Newcastle.

Goals

0.10

0.12

Assists

0.00

0.12

Progressive Carries

0.68

1.57

Progressive Passes

2.95

2.43

Shots Total

0.71

1.01

Key Passes

0.45

1.00

Tackles

1.82

3.79

Blocks

1.70

1.00

Interceptions

1.63

1.01

Aerial Duels Won

1.82

2.36

Chalobah has provided the team with an element of recovery pace, alongside new signing Maxence Lacroix and captain, Marc Guehi. Allowing Chalobah to be aggressive by jumping out of the back three, he can make interceptions, win his duels and launch counterattacks with his progressive passing.

Munoz makes 3.79 tackles per 90, whilst also getting forward and providing the width for Palace, scoring 0.12 per 90, assisting 0.12 per 90, and taking 1.01 shots per 90 minutes. His ability and industry to get up and down the pitch, doubling up with Chalobah in defensive situations down his side, and then having the energy to burst forward and overlap in attacking areas, when possession is regained.

If Palace choose to deploy this right side that has handled the likes of Anthony Gordon, Morgan Rogers and Matheus Nunes in recent weeks, there is nothing to say they cannot deal with the threat of Mitoma, and help the Eagles to another big result.

100% dribbles & 80% duels: Crystal Palace ace was even better than Lacroix

Crystal Palace secured an excellent point against Manchester City.

1 ByConnor Holden Dec 8, 2024

A number of Australian players have headed overseas for the winter to play in IPL and county cricket. Here is how they fared last week

Alex Malcolm26-Apr-2022
IPL
Josh Hazlewood continued his outstanding form in the IPL early last week taking 4 for 25 to help Royal Challengers Bangalore to a key win over Lucknow Super Giants. His Test match skills have made him unplayable in the first three games in the IPL having taken eight scalps. His bag of four included the wicket of Marcus Stoinis who fell for 24 off 15 in the chase and copped a fine of 20% of his match fee for an IPL Code of Conduct breach following his dismissal.Stoinis fell for a duck in his most recent match against Mumbai Indians holing out off another Australian in Daniel Sams. The left-arm seamer took 1 for 40 against Super Giants following on from an excellent showing against Chennai Super Kings where he took 4 for 30 in a losing side. Riley Meredith also bowled well for Mumbai against Super Kings taking 1 for 25 off 4 overs in his first game of the season, but like Sams, he was expensive against Super Giants conceding 40 off his four overs but did pick up two wickets.David Warner made his third half-century in a row smashing 60 not out off 30 balls to help Delhi Capitals mow down Punjab Kings’ paltry target of 115 inside 11 overs. Warner continued his blistering ball-striking against Rajasthan Royals smashing 28 off 14 to get Capitals off to a rollicking start in their unsuccessful chase of 223. But he has made 219 runs in five innings at a strike rate of 157.14 so far in the tournament.Related

Versatile Renshaw rising back up Australia's ranks

Aussies abroad: Harris' statement, Finch's rapid fifty, Labuschagne's all-round show, and more

Hazlewood's Test-match skills bring rewards in the IPL too

Glenn Maxwell made 23 off 11 against Super Giants for Royal Challengers but missed out against Sunrisers Hyderabad as his team was rolled for just 68. Hazlewood had no impact with the ball as Sunrisers cruised to victory.Aaron Finch and Pat Cummins were both left out of Kolkata Knight Riders’ side for their most recent clash with Gujarat Titans. Finch was coming off a half-century in the previous game but Cummins has just four wickets at an economy rate of 12 from his four games despite his heroics with the bat. Knight Riders captain Shreyas Iyer suggested at the toss against Titans that both men had niggles.Meanwhile, Tim David has still not been recalled by Mumbai and Matthew Wade is also out of favour at Titans. Nathan Ellis played one game for Kings last week but only bowled two overs against Capitals and was left out of Kings’ side for their win over Super Kings on Monday night.Peter Siddle helped to contain the hosts•Getty ImagesCounty cricket
Peter Siddle wound back the clock for a vintage display of seam bowling for Somerset in a losing cause against Surrey at the Oval. Siddle took 6 for 51 from 26 overs to help give Somerset the first-innings lead but their batters failed to capitalise. Matt Renshaw made 48 in the first innings for Somerset but was dismissed for just 10 in the second innings as Somerset were all out for 207. Siddle picked up the seventh wicket for the match in the second innings but Surrey chased down 237 in the fourth innings with three wickets to spare.Marcus Harris continued his excellent start to his time at Gloucestershire making 67 against Lancashire at Old Trafford. Following on from his century against Yorkshire, Harris looked at ease against Lancashire striking 10 fours and a six on the opening day against a Test quality attack featuring James Anderson, Hasan Ali, Saqib Mahmood and Matt Parkinson. He looked set for another hundred before he was strangled down the leg side. But he fell in familiar fashion in the second innings with Anderson getting him yet again from around the wicket with a short of a length ball that angled in and nipped away to catch the edge, as he did during the Ashes in Australia.Marnus Labuschagne made scores of just eight and 23 as Glamorgan lost to Middlesex by an innings. Peter Handscomb was out for a duck as Middlesex made 336 in their only innings of the match. Michael Neser took 2 for 67 for Glamorgan.Mark Steketee took a four-wicket haul for Essex against Warwickshire but was incredibly expensive. The Queenslander took 4 for 130 from 26.2 overs in the first innings but Essex were soundly beaten.Marnus Labuschagne has been dismissed by Shaheen Shah Afridi five times in nine innings•Getty ImagesDid you see?
Labuschagne’s struggles against Shaheen Shah Afridi were not left behind in Pakistan as the left-armer claimed him twice in the match at Sophia Gardens. Labuschagne chopped on for just eight in the first innings trying to leave a ball outside off that bounced a touch more than expected. He was pinned lbw for 23 in the second, playing across the line but claimed that he had gotten an inside edge after being given out. Shaheen has now dismissed Labuschagne seven times in first-class cricket and five times in his last nine innings. Labuschagne did get some consolation dismissing Shaheen with the ball as he claimed figures of 2 for 3 to wrap up Middlesex’s innings.Forced absences
Mitchell Marsh missed Delhi Capitals’ controversial clash with Rajasthan Royals in the IPL because he was serving his seven-day isolation after contracting Covid-19. But he should be available for Capitals’ crucial clash with Knight Riders on Thursday night. Coach Ricky Ponting should also be available after missing the Royals’ clash due to being a close Covid contact.Performance of the week
It is hard to go past Siddle’s six-for in a losing cause in the county championship. The 37-year-old was playing in his 200th first-class match, an extraordinary achievement for a fast bowler, and took his 27th five-wicket haul. He is now just 12 wickets shy of 700 first-class scalps.