We promised you some startling stats, and Mohamed Salah’s incredible performance at Old Trafford certainly delivers. The Egyptian forward has now scored in each of Liverpool’s first three games this season, cementing his place in Premier League history with a series of remarkable records.

Salah’s Dominance Against Manchester United

• Unmatched Goal Involvements: Salah has been directly involved in 17 of Liverpool’s last 23 Premier League goals against Manchester United, with 11 goals and 6 assists. No other player in Premier League history has had more goal involvements against the Red Devils.
• Prolific at Old Trafford: Salah has scored 10 goals in just nine appearances at Old Trafford across all competitions. He is only the second player to score 10+ goals at a single away ground for Premier League clubs since 1992-93, following Alan Shearer’s 10 goals at Elland Road.
• Historic Streak: Salah is the first player to score in five consecutive away appearances against Manchester United in Premier League history.

Salah’s record-breaking performance not only highlights his individual brilliance but also underscores his crucial role in Liverpool’s dominance over Manchester United in recent encounters.

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Liverpool delivered a masterclass performance, decisively outplaying Manchester United and turning the “Theatre of Dreams” into an arena of empty seats well before the final whistle. This commanding win is a testament to Arne Slot’s immediate impact, endearing him to Liverpool fans.

Three Wins, No Goals Conceded: Slot’s Impressive Start

Securing three consecutive victories without conceding a single goal is a remarkable achievement for any new head coach. Slot has managed to do just that, signaling a seamless transition from his predecessor, Jürgen Klopp.

Arne Slot’s Reserved but Effective Leadership

After the final whistle, Slot’s name echoed around the small corner of Old Trafford occupied by Liverpool supporters. The 45-year-old’s modest but appreciative response offers insight into his character and leadership style. Unlike Klopp’s animated celebrations, Slot opted for a simple wave, a clenched fist, and a business-like march towards the Stretford End.

Seamless Transition: From Klopp to Slot

It’s early days, but Liverpool’s shift from Klopp to Slot appears effortless. The Dutch manager has benefited greatly from the strong foundation laid by Klopp and the quality squad he inherited. Slot’s immediate success further solidifies this smooth transition.

Historic Achievement: Slot’s Unbeaten Record

Slot’s impact is not just limited to his leadership style; his achievements are already making history. He is the first Liverpool manager to win his first game against Manchester United since Bob Paisley in November 1975 and only the second to do so away from home, following George Kay in November 1936.

Moreover, Slot is only the third manager in Premier League history to win his first three games without conceding a goal, joining the ranks of José Mourinho at Chelsea in 2004 and Sven-Göran Eriksson at Manchester City in 2007.

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As the new Premier League season approaches, it’s time for my annual predictions for where all 20 clubs will finish. Last year’s forecast saw Manchester City clinching the title, which was a no-brainer, but predicting Aston Villa’s impressive fourth-place finish showed some insight. With the usual caveats about potential transfer activity, here’s how I see the standings shaping up for the 2024-25 season.

1. Manchester City

**Last Season:** Champions

Predicting against Manchester City feels almost futile. Pep Guardiola’s squad, led by the incredible Erling Haaland, continues to dominate, having secured their sixth Premier League title in seven years. With world-class talent and the financial power to bolster their squad further, City remains the team to beat.

**Insight:** Manchester City is likely to remain at the top, given their consistent quality and Guardiola’s relentless pursuit of success.

2. Arsenal

**Last Season:** Second

Arsenal made significant strides last season with the addition of Declan Rice and came close to challenging City. With Riccardo Calafiori strengthening their defense and potential improvements in attack, Arsenal will again be City’s closest competitor for the title. However, they might still fall short of clinching first place.

**Insight:** Arsenal’s strong squad and the experience gained from last season’s Champions League will keep them in contention for silverware.

3. Liverpool

**Last Season:** Third

Arne Slot takes over from Jurgen Klopp, inheriting a squad rich in talent. With Mohamed Salah, Alisson, and Virgil van Dijk still in the mix, Liverpool remains formidable. Slot’s challenge will be to integrate new signings and adapt to his new role, but the squad’s quality will ensure a top-four finish.

**Insight:** Liverpool is expected to challenge for trophies and secure a top-four position, despite some uncertainties surrounding the new manager.

4. Aston Villa

**Last Season:** Fourth

Under Unai Emery, Aston Villa exceeded expectations last season by finishing in the top four and qualifying for the Champions League. Although Douglas Luiz’s departure to Juventus is a blow, the squad’s depth and recent signings, including Amadou Onana, should help them maintain their position among the elite.

**Insight:** Aston Villa is poised to remain in the top four, thanks to a strong managerial presence and a talented squad.

5. Manchester United

**Last Season:** Eighth

Erik ten Hag’s tenure at Manchester United will be under scrutiny, especially after winning the FA Cup last season. With few transformative signings and some injury concerns, United’s progress hinges on their ability to resolve internal issues and integrate new players effectively.

**Insight:** Manchester United should see an improvement in their league position, aiming for a top-four finish, though challenges remain.

6. Tottenham Hotspur

**Last Season:** Fifth

Ange Postecoglou’s first season showed promise, but Spurs’ inability to secure a top-four spot was disappointing. With Dominic Solanke’s arrival and other intriguing signings, Tottenham aims to build on last season’s improvements and secure a top-six finish.

**Insight:** Spurs are likely to finish in the top six again, but top-four aspirations may be just out of reach.

7. Chelsea

**Last Season:** Sixth

Chelsea’s managerial changes continue with Enzo Maresca replacing Mauricio Pochettino. Despite a squad full of talent, the constant upheaval and ongoing transfer activity may impact their stability. If Maresca can harness the squad’s potential, Chelsea could exceed expectations.

**Insight:** Chelsea may struggle to break into the top four but should remain competitive, finishing around seventh place.

8. West Ham United

**Last Season:** Ninth

Julen Lopetegui takes over from David Moyes, bringing fresh tactics to a squad that includes exciting new signings. With strong additions like Niclas Fullkrug and Crysencio Summerville, West Ham aims to build on last season’s performance and push for a top-eight finish.

**Insight:** West Ham’s strong squad and promising new signings suggest a possible top-eight finish.

9. Newcastle United

**Last Season:** Seventh

Newcastle’s summer was marked by administrative changes and player sales. Despite losing key players and experiencing boardroom shifts, the squad still has potential. Securing a top-six finish could be challenging, but Newcastle’s squad depth and potential additions could keep them competitive.

**Insight:** Newcastle is likely to remain in the top ten, aiming for a top-six spot if they can stabilize their situation.

10. Crystal Palace

**Last Season:** Tenth

Crystal Palace, under Oliver Glasner, played exciting football last season. With the departure of key players like Michael Olise and potential interest in others, maintaining their position in the top half will be crucial. Their attacking style promises another entertaining season.

**Insight:** Palace is expected to stay in the top half, possibly finishing around tenth place.

11. Everton

**Last Season:** 15th

Sean Dyche’s focus will be on improving Everton’s fortunes in their final season at Goodison Park. Despite losing Amadou Onana and with an injury-prone striker, Everton’s defensive solidity and new additions should ensure a more comfortable finish.

**Insight:** Everton is likely to secure a mid-table position, aiming for around eleventh place.

12. Brighton & Hove Albion

**Last Season:** 11th

Brighton has undergone a managerial change with Fabian Hurzeler taking charge. With exciting young players and new signings, the squad has potential but will need time to adapt. Maintaining their mid-table status will be an achievement in a competitive league.

**Insight:** Brighton is expected to finish around twelfth, depending on how well the new manager integrates the squad.

13. Fulham

**Last Season:** 13th

Fulham faces challenges after losing key players like Joao Palhinha and Tosin Adarabioyo. However, with new signings and a talented squad, Marco Silva’s team should navigate a mid-table finish with some stability.

**Insight:** Fulham is likely to end the season around thirteenth, balancing between consolidation and progress.

14. Bournemouth

**Last Season:** 12th

Bournemouth will need to adapt after losing Dominic Solanke. Under Andoni Iraola, the team showed resilience last season and should continue to improve. Their goal will be to stay clear of relegation and achieve a respectable finish.

**Insight:** Bournemouth is expected to finish around fourteenth, with survival as a primary goal.

15. Wolverhampton Wanderers

**Last Season:** 14th

Gary O’Neil’s steady hand at Wolves is crucial, especially after losing key players. The squad’s performance will depend on new signings and reinvestment. Maintaining a mid-table position will be the goal.

**Insight:** Wolves should finish around fifteenth, contingent on their ability to replace departed players effectively.

16. Nottingham Forest

**Last Season:** 17th

Nottingham Forest’s focus will be on stability under Nuno Espirito Santo. Key players like Morgan Gibbs-White will be vital, and maintaining squad cohesion will be crucial for avoiding relegation.

**Insight:** Forest is likely to finish around sixteenth, aiming for another season of survival.

17. Southampton

**Last Season:** N/A

Returning to the Premier League, Southampton will be under the guidance of Russell Martin. Their strategy will be crucial, and survival will be the primary objective, with some potential for surprises.

**Insight:** Southampton might finish seventeenth, aiming to stay in the league and avoid immediate relegation.

18. Leicester City

**Last Season:** N/A

Leicester City’s return to the Premier League comes with challenges, including financial issues and a new manager in Steve Cooper. Their primary goal will be survival, with an uphill struggle expected.

**Insight:** Leicester is likely to finish eighteenth, focusing on avoiding relegation after a tumultuous period.

19. Ipswich Town

**Last Season:** N/A

Ipswich Town’s return to the Premier League will be challenging. Manager Kieran McKenna’s goal will be to ensure survival, with the team facing an uphill battle against established top-flight clubs.

**Insight:** Ipswich is expected to finish nineteenth, with survival as their main goal.

20. Sheffield United

**Last Season:** N/A

Sheffield United’s aim will be to adapt quickly to Premier League demands. With a focus on survival, they will need to navigate a tough season against more established teams.

**Insight:** Sheffield United may struggle and could finish in twentieth place, aiming to stay up against the odds.

This forecast considers current squad strengths and managerial changes but is subject to significant alterations as the season progresses and new transfers are made.

The post Premier League Finishing Positions Predictions for the 2024-25 Season appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Lee Carsley is set to serve as the interim manager for the England men’s senior team in their upcoming Nations League matches against the Republic of Ireland and Finland next month. Carsley recently led the England Under-21s to their first European Championship victory in 39 years in 2023.

Following Gareth Southgate’s resignation as England manager after the defeat by Spain in the 2024 Euros final, the Football Association (FA) has been actively searching for his replacement. Southgate, who stepped up from managing the Under-21s, had a successful tenure, reaching notable milestones such as a World Cup semi-final in 2018, a World Cup quarter-final in 2022, and Euros finals in 2021 and 2024.

The FA has advertised the managerial position on their website but has not publicly commented on the ongoing search. They have emphasized having an “interim solution in place,” with Carsley stepping up to fill the role temporarily.

Carsley, 50, had a 17-year playing career in the Premier League with clubs including Derby County and Everton. Transitioning into management, he has taken caretaker roles at Coventry, Brentford, and Birmingham before joining the England setup in 2020.

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Sesúmaga’s early life in the Basque Country fostered his passion for football, and he soon began his career with local clubs. His talent was evident from a young age, and he quickly progressed through the ranks. By 1918, he had made his mark with Arenas Club de Getxo, a team that was part of the burgeoning Spanish football scene. If you like the Spanish La Liga, the best online betting on it can be made through the 1xBet website.

A scoring powerhouse

Sesúmaga’s club career was marked by significant achievements and remarkable statistics. At Arenas Club de Getxo, he played a pivotal role in the team’s success. In the 1918-1919 season, he helped Arenas reach the final of the Copa del Rey. Although they lost to FC Barcelona, Sesúmaga’s performance caught the eye of bigger clubs. An easy bet football can also be made at 1xBet on the Copa del Rey.

In 1921, he joined FC Barcelona, where he truly flourished. During his tenure with Barcelona he accomplished many things, including:

• scoring lots of goals;
• helping the team claim many Copa del Rey titles;
• and being one of the most important players of the team.

An easy football bet is available at 1xBet on all Barcelona’s matches too. His most notable achievement with Barcelona was winning the Copa del Rey in 1922. Sesúmaga scored twice in the final, securing a 5-1 victory over Real Unión. His time at Barcelona saw him become one of the league’s top scorers, with a remarkable goal-scoring rate.

The national team and life after Barcelona

After his successful stint with Barcelona, Sesúmaga moved to Athletic Bilbao in 1923. When you try live sports betting at 1xBet, you can also wager on Athletic Bilbao too.

He continued to showcase his goal-scoring abilities, helping the team secure numerous victories. His tenure with Athletic Bilbao solidified his reputation as one of the most prolific forwards of his time.

Sesúmaga also enjoyed a distinguished international career with the Spanish national team. He was part of the squad that competed in the 1920 Summer Olympics in Antwerp, Belgium. Sesúmaga played a crucial role in Spain’s journey to the silver medal, scoring goals that were vital to the team’s success. Spain’s performance in the 1920 Olympics was historic, marking their first major international football success. His contributions were instrumental in this achievement, and he finished the tournament with 4 goals. The members of 1xBet can also try sports betting live on Olympic football as well.

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With AZ Alkmaar finishing fourth in the Eredivisie last season, betting fans are optimistic that Parrott can help push the team into the top three. Fans placing bets on AZ Alkmaar to finish in the top three can use the betano deposit bonus to get a welcome bonus while betting.

 

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Parrott’s Journey at Tottenham
Parrott’s story is one of talent and untapped potential. Born in Dublin, Parrott joined Tottenham’s youth academy in 2017, quickly making a name for himself with his goal-scoring prowess. He debuted in the Premier League at 17 during the 2019/20 season. However, under the management of Mauricio Pochettino and later Jose Mourinho, Parrott’s opportunities at the senior level remained limited.

His senior debut for Spurs was memorable for its context—a penalty shootout loss to Colchester United in the Carabao Cup’s third round. Subsequent appearances included brief stints in Premier League matches against Burnley and Wolves and a late substitute appearance in the FA Cup against Norwich City. Unfortunately, none of these moments allowed Parrott to cement a regular spot in the first team.

Recognizing the need for more consistent playing time, Tottenham sent Parrott on a series of loan spells. His time at Millwall, Ipswich, MK Dons, and Preston provided valuable experience but did not yield the breakthrough he needed. It was when his loan to Excelsior Rotterdam last season that Parrott began to shine, scoring 17 goals in 32 appearances despite the club’s eventual relegation from the Eredivisie.

A Fresh Start at AZ Alkmaar
Parrott’s impressive performance in the Eredivisie did not go unnoticed. AZ Alkmaar, a club known for developing young talent, saw potential in the 22-year-old striker. Signing a five-year contract that extends until the summer of 2029, Parrott views AZ as the perfect environment to continue his development.

“I think AZ is the perfect club for me to take the next steps in my development,” Parrott stated on the club’s official website. Following his stint with Excelsior, his familiarity with Dutch football undoubtedly influenced his decision. The competition and lifestyle in the Netherlands are no longer unknowns, giving Parrott a sense of continuity as he embarks on this new journey.

AZ Alkmaar finished fourth in the Eredivisie last season. Parrott’s addition to their squad is not just a boost in talent but also signals the club’s intent to challenge for higher honors. For Parrott, it’s an opportunity to become a key player for a team on the rise.
Reflecting on Tottenham’s Decision
From Tottenham’s perspective, the sale of Troy Parrott reflects their current strategic direction and recognizes the player’s need for growth opportunities. Spurs’ academy has been a fertile ground for young talents, but only some prospects find their place within the first team.

The reported fee of £6.7 million represents a significant investment for AZ and a decent return for Tottenham, considering Parrott’s limited impact on the senior squad.

With his contract initially set to expire in 2025, the timing of the transfer allows Tottenham to recoup value while granting Parrott a chance to flourish elsewhere.
Final Words
Troy Parrott’s move to AZ Alkmaar is a compelling chapter in his career. At 22, he stands at the crossroads of potential and performance. The Eredivisie has been a fertile ground for many young talents looking to make their mark, and Parrott’s prior experience in the league gives him a unique advantage.

For AZ Alkmaar, securing Parrott’s services is a strategic win, aligning with their tradition of nurturing young players and competing at the top level of Dutch football.

For Tottenham, it’s a moment of reflection on the pathways available to their academy graduates and the ever-present challenge of integrating young talent into a high-stakes Premier League environment.

The post Parrott Joins AZ Alkmaar from Tottenham appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

– **Heimir Hallgrímsson** named as Head Coach for Republic of Ireland Senior Men’s National Team
– Former Iceland and Jamaica manager to lead team in UEFA Nations League & FIFA World Cup 2026 campaigns
– Official unveiling at Aviva Stadium press conference tomorrow (11.07.24)

The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has announced the appointment of Heimir Hallgrímsson as the new Head Coach of the Senior Men’s National Team. Hallgrímsson, previously head coach for Iceland and Jamaica, will lead Ireland in the UEFA Nations League and FIFA World Cup 2026 campaigns.

Hallgrímsson’s First Competitive Fixture

Hallgrímsson will take charge of his first competitive fixture this September when Ireland faces England in the UEFA Nations League.

Official Unveiling

The new Head Coach will be officially unveiled at a press conference at the Aviva Stadium tomorrow (11.07.24).

Hallgrímsson’s Extensive Experience

Heimir Hallgrímsson was identified as the FAI’s top candidate earlier this year due to his extensive experience and alignment with the Association’s search criteria, including:

– Previous international Head Coach experience
– Proven track record of improving FIFA world rankings
– Successful qualification and competition at major tournaments
– Expertise in youth development and progression

Notable Achievements

Iceland National Team-

**Assistant Manager to Lars Lagerback (2011-2013)**
– **Joint Head Coach with Lagerback (2013-2016)**
– **Sole Head Coach (2016-2018)**
– Led Iceland to the quarter-finals of UEFA EURO 2016, eliminating England in the last 16
– Qualified for the 2018 FIFA World Cup
– Reached the qualification playoff for the 2014 FIFA World Cup
– Achieved Iceland’s highest ever FIFA ranking of 18th

Jamaica National Team

– **Head Coach (2022-2024)**
– Led Jamaica to qualification for Conmebol Copa America 2024
– Improved FIFA world ranking from 64th to 53rd
– Resigned following the conclusion of the Copa America 2024 campaign

Al-Arabi Club

– **Head Coach (2018-2021)**
– Gained club experience in the Qatar Stars League

Comments from Heimir Hallgrímsson

Heimir Hallgrímsson expressed his enthusiasm about his new role:
> “It is an honor to be appointed Head Coach of the Ireland Senior Men’s National Team. Ireland is a proud footballing nation with talented players and memorable international tournament moments. We have a young and exciting team with genuine potential. I look forward to working closely with the players to help improve performances and results, ensuring we qualify and compete at major tournaments regularly. I am also eager to get to know the people of Ireland and the wonderful fans of Irish football. It is my responsibility to prepare and develop our team to deliver results on the pitch and make our supporters proud.”

FAI Director of Football Marc Canham’s Statement

FAI Director of Football, Marc Canham, commented on the appointment:
> “We are thrilled to announce Heimir as our new Head Coach. Heimir’s international experience with Iceland and Jamaica, along with his track record of qualifying for major tournaments and improving FIFA rankings, made him our number one candidate. It was crucial for us to recruit a Head Coach interested in the overall development of football in Ireland, as outlined in the FAI’s football pathways plan. Heimir is passionate about the development of our underage international teams. I also want to thank John O’Shea and his staff for their excellent work in guiding the team through recent friendlies, creating a brilliant environment for the players, and achieving positive results on the pitch.”

—

This announcement emphasizes Heimir Hallgrímsson’s extensive experience and qualifications, highlighting his previous successes and his future goals for the Republic of Ireland Senior Men’s National Team.

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France is one of the favourites to win the UEFA Euro 2024, according to the bookies and numerous fans. They have a remarkable squad that can compete against anyone. The manager, Didier Deschamps, gets to choose from multiple quality players in every position. Some may say that he has a unique problem selecting the starting eleven.

During their opening game at the Euro 2024, they faced Austria in a tough match. Both teams fought hard until the last minute, but in the end, France won the match by just 1-0. The win didn’t surprise the fans. However, the French squad did lack consistency throughout the whole match.

Mbappé Saves the Day Once Again

The French national team has many stars, but there is no doubt that Mbappé is the best of them all. It’s one of the reasons why this player is the captain of the French squad.

Whenever he’s out of form or not playing, the French team struggles to dominate the match. This is mainly true when they play against other top national teams.

Mbappé didn’t score against Austria, but he did help get the winning goal. He dribbled past a few defenders on the right and made a cross that hit one of the defenders. After that, the ball went into the net, making it the only goal of the match.

The Austrian team struggled to lower Mbappé’s impact on the match. Throughout the entire match, he made a total of four shots and successfully dribbled multiple Austrian players. He even had a 92% pass accuracy and won two aerial duels.

But, despite his incredible performance, he didn’t win the Man of the Match award. This prize went to N’golo Kante, who once again was everywhere on the field.

It’s worth mentioning that Austria was also decent in this match. They did underperform in the first half but improved greatly in the second half. All that was missing was a goal. Without the own goal that they scored, this match would’ve easily gone a different way.

French fans believe that their team will perform even better in the upcoming matches. Among them are many bettors that get involved in Euro 2024 betting, some even backing France to win the competition.

The French Captain Suffered an Injury Against Austria

Kylian Mbappé enjoyed a spectacular match but was unlucky right at the end. In an attempt to hit the ball with his head, the Frenchman collided with Austria’s Kevin Danso.

Unlucky for Mbappé, he hit the opposite player’s shoulder, which left him with a bloody nose. It later turned out that he actually broke his nose. After the match, the medical staff took him to a local Düsseldorf hospital where an X-ray scan confirmed the break.

The first signals indicated that the player would need surgery right away. However, the French Football Federation (FFF) dismissed these speculations.

They stated that Mbappé returned to the base camp of the French team. There he would undergo treatment in the upcoming days, but without getting an immediate surgery. In order for the player to resume playing for his national team, the FFF will make a special mask for him.

The mask will protect his nose from getting even worse while playing in the future Euro 2024 matches. Mbappé will return to the pitch only after the period devoted to treating his injury.

At the moment, it’s unclear whether Mbappé will be fit to play against the Netherlands on Friday. Some say that the French player will miss the rest of the Euro 2024 group stage. But, according to the FFF president, Philippe Diallo, it’s still premature to decide whether he’ll be out of the competition.

Didier Deschamps said that the French team is always stronger with Kylian. But, if the news isn’t good, then he and the team will continue fighting without their best player.

The manager also said that the medical staff did everything in their power to reduce the injury. He concluded by stating that the player would need surgery after the tournament.

Hopefully, his injury doesn’t get any worse during another Euromatch or a training session. Getting another hit on his nose will surely end his Euro 2024 dream.

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As we look ahead to this summer, particularly Euro 2024, it will be interesting to see how many teams adopt the possession-based style that has defined the last few years of football across the continent.

Indeed, the favourites for the competition with Euro 2024 betting odds all have their tactical approach, with France, England, and Germany all capable of lifting the trophy. But how has their identity changed when looking at previous winners of the Euros?

In this article, we look at the last few champions of Europe and assess the tactics that proved successful throughout recent editions of the tournament. Read on to find out more.

Euro 2020 – Italy

We start with the current holders of the Euros, and Italy’s defensive displays played a big part in their victory over England on penalties at Wembley three years ago.

Roberto Mancini established an experienced side with hundreds of international caps. It may have lacked pace and physicality but created chances by utilising set-pieces, and then kept clean sheets with the leadership from the centre-back partnership of Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini.

The two former Juventus defenders were rocks at the back, and the Azzurri conceded just three goals all tournament.

Even when trailing to England in the fourth minute, it never looked as if they would panic, and the control of Mancini’s 4-3-3, which focused on covering wingers Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Chiesa, went a long way to winning the big games for the Italians.

Euro 2016 – Portugal

When Cristiano Ronaldo scored the winning penalty to earn Real Madrid an 11th Champions League in the spring of 2016, those using a bet on Euros offer would see Portugal’s odds slash, but the five-time Ballon d’Or winner couldn’t have done it alone.

Ronaldo was the heartbeat of that Portugal side that won in2016, but stylistically their game plan focused far more on long, direct balls to compensate for their midfield.

The drop-off in quality from the bench was apparent for manager Fernando Santos, but Ronaldo’s injury against France in the final forced his hand to make changes, and it was a substitute in the form of Eder that won the game for the Portuguese.

Santos’ approach was to play forward quickly, changing his wingers to strikers in a diamond at the business end of the competition to have a numerical advantage – which worked when Eder got his goal in the 109th minute.

Euro 2012 and 2008 – Spain

The Spanish team from 2008-2012 were perhaps one of the greatest international sides of all time – and it was a combination of Guardiola’s intricate tiki-taka fused with José Mourinho’s winning mentality that was integrated by Spain boss Vicente del Bosque, as he won back-to-back Euros as well as the World Cup in South Africa.

Spain became so successful because of their ability to transition and play in multiple positions. An elegant midfield of Sergio Busquets, Xavi, and Xabi Alonso meant that Andrés Iniesta changed role, playing as a left winger, while David Villa and Fernando Torres had to come to receive the ball more often than they would have for Valencia and Liverpool respectively.

There was a slight change to personnel at Euro 2012, with Jordi Alba replacing Joan Capdevila at left-back, and Cesc Fàbregas leading the line for a side that scored 11 goals and conceded just one on route to thrashing Italy in the Kyiv final.

—

Looking ahead to this summer, it will be interesting to see if any national side incorporates tactics that are used in the following domestic European seasons.

The post How international football has changed tactically in recent European Championships appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Aoife Mannion finds it hard to remember the last time she won a trophy before Manchester United’s recent FA Cup final victory over Spurs. “The girls were all teasing me,” she says. “It was my first in about a decade. The last one was some kind of FA Cup shield or something with Aston Villa. I can’t even remember the exact name, but it was a regional trophy of some sort.”

The win at Wembley marked a significant upgrade in silverware, with United clinching the FA Cup for the first time in their history in front of a crowd of 76,000. By the time Mannion stepped off the bench to play the final 12 minutes, the team was already leading 4-0. Job done.

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“It was phenomenal, an absolutely amazing experience. And when the boys accomplished it too, the sense of pride was immense. It was a truly extraordinary moment for me, my family, and my friends. Around 25 people came over from Ireland, including a school from Ballinrobe. We know one of the teachers there, and she always brings the students to the games. They’ve visited the Aviva and even watched us at the Emirates when we played Arsenal. They always carry the same banner, so I spotted it at Wembley and knew exactly where my family was sitting. It’s not like it used to be a decade ago when you could easily recognize faces in the crowd.”

For the 28-year-old defender, it was a triumphant end to yet another season plagued by injuries, where she managed only four league appearances for United. A knee injury had already sidelined her from the World Cup, and then a quad tear in September kept her out until February. Having endured two anterior cruciate ligament injuries in her career, she was no stranger to long stints in recovery.

Did the dream of moments like the FA Cup final keep her motivated? “Absolutely, it’s crazy to think about—there have been some really low points, but also incredible highs. Once my career is over, I’ll reflect on it all and decide what was worth it. The FA Cup is now just a memory, and I’m eager to chase that feeling again.”

She has made the most of her time away from the game, earning her Uefa B coaching license. Now, she’s among 17 current or former players selected for the inaugural all-female Uefa A license course. This 12-month program, which started last week, includes notable figures like Vivianne Miedema, Beth Mead, Kim Little, Lia Wälti, and Steph Houghton. It also features Chelsea’s Swedish goalkeeper Zećira Mušović, whom Mannion hopes Ireland can challenge in their upcoming matches. “We exchanged a few pleasant words as we left, like ‘see you in a few days,’” she says with a laugh.

While coaching might be in her future, her current focus is on playing. Since making her debut under Vera Pauw in February last year, she has only added four more caps due to a streak of bad luck. However, Eileen Gleeson’s high regard for her was evident when she started against both France and England in the opening games of Ireland’s Euro 2025 qualifying campaign last month, not in her usual center-back position, but as a left and right wing-back.

“I don’t mind where I play; I’ll give it my all in any position. My versatility is an asset for the team, and I’m ready to help wherever needed.”

Although Ireland lost to France (0-1) and England (0-2), Mannion sees positives. She believes these experiences boost their confidence for Friday’s game against Sweden at the Aviva Stadium and the return match in Stockholm next Tuesday.

“We played well for large parts of those games. The narrow scorelines, especially our strong second half against England, showed our potential. Our goal now is to maintain that balance for a full 90 minutes. It’s challenging against top teams, but we’ve learned a lot. Hopefully, we can apply those lessons against Sweden, recognizing they are one of the world’s best teams.”

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