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The 2025 South Carolina football schedule is loaded once again. Which games are the most compelling? We rank them here.

South Carolina’s 2025 Football Schedule: Ranking the Most Intriguing Matchups

The South Carolina Gamecocks are riding high after a stellar 2024 campaign, fueled by an elite defensive front and the rise of a dynamic quarterback. With expectations reaching new heights in Columbia, the big question remains: Can they maintain the momentum? Here’s a look at the 2025 South Carolina football schedule, ranked by a variety of factors including rivalry intensity, opponent excitement, and overall season impact.

Let’s break down each game and see which ones have the most to offer this fall.

12) vs. SC State Bulldogs (Saturday, Sept. 6)
While SEC teams often face criticism for scheduling FCS teams, South Carolina fans are unlikely to complain. With a brutal SEC schedule, they’re likely to be forgiven for facing an in-state rival. This isn’t the powerhouse SC State Bulldogs of years past, but under Chennis Berry, the Bulldogs did capture the MEAC Championship in 2024. Still, this is a game the Gamecocks should dominate.

11) vs. Coastal Carolina (Saturday, Nov. 22)
When this matchup was first announced, it had Gamecocks fans worried, especially with Jamey Chadwell at the helm of Coastal Carolina. However, after Chadwell’s departure, the intrigue surrounding this game has significantly decreased. It now seems like a warm-up ahead of a critical Palmetto Bowl showdown in Rivalry Week.

10) vs. Vanderbilt Commodores (Saturday, Sept. 13)
Despite Diego Pavia adding some excitement to the Vanderbilt matchup, it remains a lower-tier game on the schedule. The Gamecocks have dominated this series, winning 16 straight against the Commodores, and this game should be another routine victory in a typically lopsided SEC affair.

9) vs. Kentucky Wildcats (Saturday, Sept. 27)
The rivalry between South Carolina and Kentucky had some renewed energy recently, especially with both teams fighting for relevance in the SEC East. However, with the Wildcats struggling in 2024 and facing a large roster turnover, this game has lost some of its former luster. South Carolina’s dominant win last year only adds to the feeling that they’ll handle business once again.

8) vs. Oklahoma Sooners (Saturday, Oct. 18)
The Oklahoma Sooners are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2024 season. South Carolina’s dominant defense last year set the tone, with nine sacks and four turnovers against the Sooner offense. Shane Beamer’s squad should be favored, but Oklahoma is hungry for revenge, and John Mateer under center promises an intriguing matchup.

7) at Missouri Tigers (Saturday, Sept. 20)
After a dramatic victory over Eli Drinkwitz’s Missouri Tigers last year, Shane Beamer now faces them on the road for the next installment of the Mayor’s Cup. This young rivalry has already delivered plenty of thrills, and both teams are expected to have high expectations in 2025. Despite the game’s potential, it’s still somewhat overshadowed by stronger matchups on the schedule.

6) at Texas A&M Aggies (Saturday, Nov. 15)
In recent years, South Carolina has had Texas A&M’s number, winning two of the last three matchups, including a 44-20 blowout in 2024. With Mike Elko’s Aggies improving and South Carolina yet to win at Kyle Field, this game could be pivotal in the hunt for the College Football Playoff.

5) vs. Virginia Tech Hokies (Sunday, Aug. 31)
The Virginia Tech Hokies have had a rough offseason, losing key players and undergoing coaching turmoil. For South Carolina, this game is an excellent opportunity to make a statement on a national stage. However, Beamer’s teams have struggled in season openers, and this contest could be a make-or-break moment to set the tone for the rest of the year.

4) vs. Alabama Crimson Tide (Saturday, Oct. 25)
In 2024, South Carolina nearly pulled off an upset in Tuscaloosa, losing in dramatic fashion. With Kalen DeBoer’s squad expected to be better in Year 2, this late October matchup could be the perfect opportunity for the Gamecocks to finally topple the Crimson Tide at home. Shane Beamer and company will surely be fired up for this one.

3) at Ole Miss Rebels (Saturday, Nov. 1)
There’s a bit of bad blood between Shane Beamer and Lane Kiffin, and it stems from much more than just football. The two coaches have had their share of battles in the transfer portal, with the Rebels even flipping one of South Carolina’s top recruits this offseason. This will be a fiery contest, and after last year’s lopsided loss, Beamer is eager to exact revenge.

2) at LSU Tigers (Saturday, Oct. 11)
Last year’s matchup between South Carolina and LSU was marred by one of the most egregious officiating errors, costing the Gamecocks a potential College Football Playoff berth. As they head to Baton Rouge in Week 7, South Carolina will be out for redemption. The timing of the game off a bye week could set the stage for a primetime spectacle.

1) vs. Clemson Tigers (Saturday, Nov. 29)
The Palmetto Bowl always takes center stage, no matter the records of either team. This rivalry has had it all – from fights to campus invasions to wild controversies. After Shane Beamer led the Gamecocks to two wins over the Tigers, both on the road, will he secure his first home victory over Clemson in 2025? With both teams loaded with talent and potential College Football Playoff implications on the line, this is the game everyone will be watching.

So, there you have it: a packed 2025 South Carolina football schedule that promises drama, excitement, and a potential Playoff push. Stay tuned to see how the Gamecocks perform in what could be a historic season.

February 10, 2025
Stefan Bajcetic faces new setback in Liverpool loan as coach expresses concern

Liverpool midfielder Stefan Bajcetic has had a rough start to his loan spell at Las Palmas after being forced off with an injury during his debut. The Spaniard completed a temporary move to the La Liga side this week following a tough period at RB Salzburg.

The 20-year-old’s time in Austria was cut short, with just eight starts under his belt after joining from Liverpool alongside former Reds assistant manager Pep Lijnders. However, Lijnders was dismissed from his position just before the winter break in mid-December.

On Saturday, Bajcetic was given his first start for Las Palmas in their 2-1 loss to Villarreal, playing 78 minutes before being substituted due to a calf issue. The injury occurred after a physical challenge with Villarreal’s Tajon Buchanan.

This was only Bajcetic’s second appearance in months, having made a brief appearance in Salzburg’s 4-1 defeat to Atletico Madrid last week in the Champions League.

Las Palmas head coach Diego Martinez acknowledged that the calf problem might be linked to Bajcetic’s lack of recent competitive action.

“Basically, it’s a bit of a miracle that Sandro is able to play today,” Martinez said. “And given the situation he came from, it’s further proof of the commitment he has to us, to the club, to the team.

“And obviously, like Stefan, they are players who, for one reason or another, have not trained for a long time and have not had continuity in training.

“In principle, they are normal overloads that have gone up in the femoral muscles, but they have to wait, although it’s as if nothing had happened.”

More news…..

Complete list of Liverpool transfers for January 2025 as 7 players depart

Liverpool did not make any signings during the 2025 January transfer window, but several young players left the club either permanently or on loan.

A quiet transfer window typically indicates a well-managed club, and given the solid state of their squad, Liverpool had no need for major signings this month.

With only Trent Alexander-Arnold currently a concern due to injury, following the returns to training of Diogo Jota, Joe Gomez, and Curtis Jones last week, there was no urgency to bring in cover. The team’s impressive performance throughout the season meant significant additions were unnecessary.

In terms of departures, there was interest from Saudi Arabian clubs in Darwin Nunez, but Liverpool was not open to selling him this month, though a move could be considered at the end of the season. Federico Chiesa had also been linked with a return to Serie A due to limited playing time, but his situation at Anfield appears more promising after recent appearances.

Although there were no major arrivals or exits, several youngsters left on loan or permanently. Stefan Bajcetic joined Las Palmas until the end of the season after his move to RB Salzburg was cancelled, while Dominic Corness, Kaide Gordon, and Calvin Ramsay all completed loan moves to other British clubs. Corness moved to Gillingham, Gordon to Portsmouth, and Ramsay to Kilmarnock.

Jayden Danns’ loan move to Sunderland was confirmed on Tuesday, along with news of a minor injury and a new contract. Here’s the full list of Liverpool’s January transfer dealings:

Incomings
None

Outgoings
Marcelo Pitaluga – Permanent to Fluminense
Tom Hill – Permanent to Harrogate
Luca Furnell-Gill – Permanent to Tottenham
Calvin Ramsay – Loan to Kilmarnock
Stefan Bajcetic – Loan to Las Palmas
Dominic Corness – Loan to Gillingham
Kaide Gordon – Loan to Portsmouth
Jayden Danns – Loan to Sunderland

February 9, 2025
Report: Liverpool greenlit to pursue stunning Rodrygo move following initial talks

Liverpool Ready to Move for Rodrygo as Real Madrid Opens the Door for Sale

In a stunning development, Liverpool have received the green light to pursue a move for Rodrygo, with Real Madrid reportedly open to selling the Brazilian star. This comes as the Reds continue their measured approach to transfers under Arne Slot, who made only one first-team addition last summer—Federico Chiesa. Liverpool’s strategy has focused on maintaining consistency, rather than making major splash signings, and it’s clearly paying off. They are currently leading the Premier League, six points ahead of Arsenal with a game in hand, and topped their Champions League group.

Liverpool have engaged in talks for Rodrygo, with Real Madrid now easing their position on a potential sale

Liverpool have been in talks with Real Madrid about a potential move for Rodrygo, with the Spanish club seemingly softening their stance on parting ways with the winger. There’s also growing speculation surrounding Mohamed Salah, whose exceptional form this season has made him a 3/1 favorite to win the 2025 Ballon d’Or. Ben Jacobs, a prominent transfer expert, believes that even if Liverpool renews Salah’s contract, it won’t prevent them from seeking his eventual replacement. Jacobs said, “In an ideal world, Liverpool renew Van Dijk and Salah, while simultaneously in 2025 looking to replace them… it makes the transition much more seamless.”

Liverpool manager Arne Slot is looking to sign a new winger

If Liverpool secures Rodrygo‘s signature, there might be little need for a lengthy period of adjustment. According to Fichajes, Real Madrid has always viewed Rodrygo as a key figure, though “the situation could change” if offers come in this summer. There’s already talk of Saudi Arabian interest, with rumors of a €200 million bid. Los Blancos are expecting further suitors for Rodrygo as the transfer window approaches.

Previously, Spanish outlets Cadena Ser and Sport (via Sport Witness) have reported on initial conversations between Rodrygo and Liverpool, potentially as a fallback option if Salah does not extend his contract. With just three months remaining on Salah’s current deal, there’s a real possibility that Liverpool could target Rodrygo in the summer if they lose their star player. There’s even speculation that Rodrygo could slot into Liverpool‘s attack alongside Salah, given his versatility—he originally played on the left wing before transitioning to the right for Madrid.

Although Rodrygo has been valued at around €100 million, and he is ranked among the top right-wingers in the world, Liverpool faces stiff competition. A possible bidding war could emerge, with Saudi Arabian clubs reportedly ready to throw large sums at him. However, despite Liverpool‘s interest, the move remains distant at this point. FourFourTwo suggests that while there is a pathway to a transfer, the situation is still developing and a deal is not imminent.

Real Madrid could seek to spark a bidding war for Rodrygo

Moreover, the move for Rodrygo seems out of character for Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes, who have earned their reputations by bringing in players before they become global superstars. Signing a Real Madrid player for a record fee would represent a significant departure from their usual approach.

As of now, Rodrygo is valued at €100 million by Transfermarkt, and attention will shift to Liverpool‘s upcoming League Cup semi-final clash with Tottenham at Anfield this week.

February 3, 2025
The Enormous Amount Liverpool Made for Winning the Champions League Group Stage

Liverpool have already earned a significant sum from this season’s Champions League, and there’s potential for even more!

The Reds’ group stage concluded on Wednesday with a 3-2 loss to PSV Eindhoven, ending their perfect record. However, this result did little to dampen the team’s spirits, as they still finished at the top of the 36-team table.

When the draw was made last summer, some believed Arne Slot’s side had been handed a tough group, but they made light work of the challenge.

Topping the group brought numerous advantages, including a simpler route to the final, but the financial rewards are also substantial. According to The Athletic, Liverpool are set to earn at least £83.8 million from their efforts over the past eight matches.

An additional £47.2 million remains up for grabs between now and the final in Munich on May 31, meaning the Reds could earn more than £130 million if they secure their seventh European Cup title.

The report also highlights that Liverpool generate between £3 million and £4 million on a matchday at Anfield, placing them in a strong financial position.

This success is likely to fuel calls from fans for a busy summer transfer window, especially after the club’s recent frugality.

This season’s progress underscores the importance of Liverpool returning to the Champions League after dropping into the Europa League in 2023/24.

Slot’s team heads into the knockout stages as the bookies’ favorites to win the competition in May, with Arsenal, Barcelona, and Real Madrid seen as their toughest challengers. Manchester City rounds out the top five but will face either Real or Bayern Munich in a difficult one-legged playoff.

With Liverpool also leading the Premier League with 16 matches remaining, things are going exceptionally well for Slot.

Now, it’s about being relentless across four competitions—starting with upcoming Carabao Cup and FA Cup matches against Tottenham and Plymouth—and pushing for what could be a historic quadruple. While this achievement might ultimately be out of reach (as no English team has ever managed it), this Liverpool side feels poised for extraordinary success this season.

More news….

Stefan Bajcetic transfer news: Liverpool youngster may receive new opportunity

Liverpool midfielder Stefan Bajcetic’s loan situation at RB Salzburg has sparked considerable debate, with contrasting reports regarding his future.

Merseyside sources maintain that the 20-year-old will not be recalled, but recent reports from Spain suggest otherwise. Bajcetic, who has struggled for playing time under new Salzburg head coach Thomas Letsch following the departure of former Reds coach Pep Lijnders, has been linked with a potential move to La Liga.

Spanish clubs, including Real Betis, Celta Vigo, and most recently Las Palmas, are reportedly interested, with Tenerife-based outlet Atlantico Hoy stating that the latter is nearing an agreement.

Despite earlier reports indicating that Liverpool might end Bajcetic’s Salzburg loan in favor of a move to Spain, The Athletic’s James Pearce has dismissed this idea, affirming that the Reds are content with Bajcetic’s development in Austria.

Nonetheless, there are lingering questions about Bajcetic’s future. It is believed that the 20-year-old’s playing style may align more closely with Jurgen Klopp’s tactics than with the system employed by Arne Slot at Anfield, fueling speculation that his long-term future could lie elsewhere.

Liverpool is expected to see considerable activity in the final week of the transfer window, particularly with outgoing transfers for their younger players.

While Bajcetic’s immediate future appears set with at least another half-season at Salzburg, other emerging talents may be on the move, either temporarily or permanently, to further their development.

Tyler Morton, for example, could be allowed to leave, with potential loan moves also on the cards for Kaide Gordon, James Norris, James Balagizi, Dominic Corness, and Harvey Davies.

Liverpool has already made several adjustments to their youth setup this month. Gordon, Calvin Ramsay, and Marcelo Pitaluga were recalled from their loans, with Ramsay quickly rejoining Kilmarnock on another loan and Pitaluga returning to Brazil to reconnect with former club Fluminense. Additionally, midfielder Tom Hill has completed a free transfer to League Two side Harrogate Town.

January 30, 2025
Roberto Di Matteo claims Mohamed Salah’s replacement is already in Liverpool’s squad

Federico Chiesa has been considered a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah at Liverpool if the Egyptian forward departs this summer.

Roberto Di Matteo, a former Italy international, believes Chiesa possesses the skill to make a significant impact at Anfield, provided he can maintain his fitness.

Liverpool acquired Chiesa from Juventus in the summer of 2024 for a relatively low £10 million, which many saw as a bargain. However, the 27-year-old’s time at Liverpool has been hindered by injuries.

So far, Chiesa has only made eight appearances and hasn’t yet started a Premier League match. Speculation about a return to Italy emerged in January, but Chiesa remained with Liverpool.

Roberto Di Matteo Discusses Chiesa

In an interview with GOAL in collaboration with BetMGM, Di Matteo shared his opinion on Chiesa’s future at Liverpool.

“I definitely think he can be a success. He is one of the best Italian players. His only downfall has been injuries,” Di Matteo stated.

He also praised Liverpool for their decision to sign Chiesa, believing the player still has the potential to prove himself.

“I can see why Liverpool would sign him. It’s a fantastic club, always challenging for the Premier League and Champions League. It’s not easy to break into the team with Mo Salah and Luis Diaz ahead of him, but I think he will be an asset in the second half of the season,” Di Matteo added.

With Salah’s contract nearing its end, Liverpool may soon need a new star on the right wing. When asked if Chiesa could step into Salah’s role, Di Matteo acknowledged it would be a tough task.

“Who can fill Mo Salah’s void? That’s a big ask. His numbers are staggering. I’m not sure Chiesa can fill his shoes, but he can contribute a lot to the team,” he said.

Chiesa recently scored his first goal for Liverpool in an FA Cup victory over Accrington Stanley. He has since made three additional appearances as a substitute and is hoping to play a more prominent role in the upcoming months.

More news…..

Liverpool set to complete Anis Hadj Moussa’s summer transfer

Liverpool is reportedly interested in signing 22-year-old Algerian international Anis Hadj Moussa from Feyenoord for €12 million in the upcoming summer transfer window.

According to Africa Foot, the Reds are keen on adding a wide attacker to their squad, given the uncertainty surrounding Mohamed Salah’s long-term future at the club. As a result, Liverpool plans to complete the transfer for Moussa, with a deal expected to be worth €12 million when the summer window opens.

Who is Anis Hadj Moussa?

Anis Hadj Moussa is regarded as one of the brightest young attacking talents globally, although his output has been limited so far. Born in Paris, Moussa’s youth career took him through the academies of three French clubs before he graduated from RC Lens’ youth system.

However, it was in Belgium and the Netherlands where the 22-year-old truly made a name for himself. Since joining Feyenoord from Patro Eisden in the summer, Moussa has made significant strides, contributing six goals and two assists in 22 appearances across all competitions this season.

Moussa’s development has not gone unnoticed, drawing the attention of several top clubs around Europe. Premier League teams, in particular, are eager to secure the services of the Algerian, with Liverpool being one of the frontrunners for his signature ahead of the summer transfer window.

Premier League move on the horizon?

Liverpool’s interest in Moussa makes sense, especially with the ongoing doubts about Mohamed Salah’s future. The Egyptian forward has hinted that the 2024/25 season could be his final one with the club. While Liverpool cannot afford to lose Salah, they need to plan for the future.

As a result, Moussa has become a realistic target, with Africa Foot reporting that Liverpool is set to finalize a €12 million deal to bring the winger to Anfield in the summer.

Though Moussa may not immediately replace Salah, he has the potential to develop into a key player for Liverpool. It will be intriguing to see if the transfer of the Algerian international materializes.

January 28, 2025
Stefan Bajcetic transfer news: Liverpool youngster may receive new opportunity

Liverpool midfielder Stefan Bajcetic’s loan situation at RB Salzburg has sparked considerable debate, with contrasting reports regarding his future.

Merseyside sources maintain that the 20-year-old will not be recalled, but recent reports from Spain suggest otherwise. Bajcetic, who has struggled for playing time under new Salzburg head coach Thomas Letsch following the departure of former Reds coach Pep Lijnders, has been linked with a potential move to La Liga.

Spanish clubs, including Real Betis, Celta Vigo, and most recently Las Palmas, are reportedly interested, with Tenerife-based outlet Atlantico Hoy stating that the latter is nearing an agreement.

Despite earlier reports indicating that Liverpool might end Bajcetic’s Salzburg loan in favor of a move to Spain, The Athletic’s James Pearce has dismissed this idea, affirming that the Reds are content with Bajcetic’s development in Austria.

Nonetheless, there are lingering questions about Bajcetic’s future. It is believed that the 20-year-old’s playing style may align more closely with Jurgen Klopp’s tactics than with the system employed by Arne Slot at Anfield, fueling speculation that his long-term future could lie elsewhere.

Liverpool is expected to see considerable activity in the final week of the transfer window, particularly with outgoing transfers for their younger players.

While Bajcetic’s immediate future appears set with at least another half-season at Salzburg, other emerging talents may be on the move, either temporarily or permanently, to further their development.

Tyler Morton, for example, could be allowed to leave, with potential loan moves also on the cards for Kaide Gordon, James Norris, James Balagizi, Dominic Corness, and Harvey Davies.

Liverpool has already made several adjustments to their youth setup this month. Gordon, Calvin Ramsay, and Marcelo Pitaluga were recalled from their loans, with Ramsay quickly rejoining Kilmarnock on another loan and Pitaluga returning to Brazil to reconnect with former club Fluminense. Additionally, midfielder Tom Hill has completed a free transfer to League Two side Harrogate Town.

More news….

Liverpool set to complete Anis Hadj Moussa’s summer transfer

Liverpool is reportedly interested in signing 22-year-old Algerian international Anis Hadj Moussa from Feyenoord for €12 million in the upcoming summer transfer window.

According to Africa Foot, the Reds are keen on adding a wide attacker to their squad, given the uncertainty surrounding Mohamed Salah’s long-term future at the club. As a result, Liverpool plans to complete the transfer for Moussa, with a deal expected to be worth €12 million when the summer window opens.

Who is Anis Hadj Moussa?

Anis Hadj Moussa is regarded as one of the brightest young attacking talents globally, although his output has been limited so far. Born in Paris, Moussa’s youth career took him through the academies of three French clubs before he graduated from RC Lens’ youth system.

However, it was in Belgium and the Netherlands where the 22-year-old truly made a name for himself. Since joining Feyenoord from Patro Eisden in the summer, Moussa has made significant strides, contributing six goals and two assists in 22 appearances across all competitions this season.

Moussa’s development has not gone unnoticed, drawing the attention of several top clubs around Europe. Premier League teams, in particular, are eager to secure the services of the Algerian, with Liverpool being one of the frontrunners for his signature ahead of the summer transfer window.

Premier League move on the horizon?

Liverpool’s interest in Moussa makes sense, especially with the ongoing doubts about Mohamed Salah’s future. The Egyptian forward has hinted that the 2024/25 season could be his final one with the club. While Liverpool cannot afford to lose Salah, they need to plan for the future.

As a result, Moussa has become a realistic target, with Africa Foot reporting that Liverpool is set to finalize a €12 million deal to bring the winger to Anfield in the summer.

Though Moussa may not immediately replace Salah, he has the potential to develop into a key player for Liverpool. It will be intriguing to see if the transfer of the Algerian international materializes.

January 27, 2025
Report: Liverpool star player has agreed to a new two-year contract

Liverpool may have already secured a new contract for one of their key players, although the news has yet to be officially confirmed.

The club has been grappling with concerning off-field issues, with Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold all set to be out of contract at the end of the season.

Fans will likely have been anxious about the possibility of losing all three players on free transfers, but it appears there is positive news regarding Van Dijk.

Fichajes reports that the Netherlands international has already agreed to a two-year contract extension with the club, ensuring his future at Anfield.

The report indicates that Liverpool are pleased with this development, and supporters will likely be celebrating once the news is made official.

Virgil van Dijk set to remain at Liverpool, but will they retain their other key players?

While Van Dijk’s future seems secure, Liverpool must now focus on keeping Salah and Alexander-Arnold for the long term.

Salah’s potential move to Saudi Arabia has been suggested by recent reports, with Gianluigi Longari noting that Al Hilal are the frontrunners to sign him.

In addition, El Chiringuito has claimed that Alexander-Arnold’s move to Real Madrid is already finalized for next season.

Losing two out of these three crucial players would undoubtedly be a significant setback for Liverpool, even though securing Van Dijk is certainly a positive development.

It is surprising that the club has found itself in this situation, as it is difficult to recall another team facing such a complex transfer dilemma in recent years.

Liverpool fans will be hoping they can navigate through this challenge and that valuable lessons will be learned to prevent such issues in the future.

More news……

Arne Slot must unleash key player as Liverpool await crucial answer to big question within 24 hours

In a dramatic 1-1 draw at Nottingham Forest, Liverpool had to fight back after an early deficit, and the key to their second-half resurgence came from an inspired double substitution. The importance of Kostas Tsimikas and Diogo Jota‘s first touches in this match may not be fully realized until later in the season, but their impact was clear.

For now, Arne Slot will be left reflecting on several missed opportunities, as Forest goalkeeper Mats Sels was in outstanding form, denying Liverpool a crucial victory. Sels was superb, keeping out efforts from Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, and Jota, while Ola Aina also made a crucial clearance off the line. This resilience from Forest is exactly why they currently sit second in the league, showing their ability to withstand intense pressure from Liverpool’s attacking waves.

Though Forest may not challenge Liverpool for the Premier League title come May, their defense is proving formidable, and a top-four finish looks very attainable, especially with rivals like Chelsea and Manchester City faltering after their own 2-2 draws earlier this week. If Arne Slot truly believes those teams are still title contenders, then no ground was lost here for Liverpool.

In terms of defensive solidity, Forest certainly deserve recognition. Nikola Milenkovic and Murillo were exceptional, exemplifying why Forest have conceded only 20 goals in 21 games—matching Liverpool‘s defensive record. Only Arsenal have conceded fewer.

From the outset, Liverpool controlled the game, dominating possession against a Forest side that opted to sit back rather than press. The hosts were content to invite Liverpool forward and defend deep, but, as in their previous meeting in September, a sharp counterattack caught Liverpool off guard. Chris Wood capitalized on the hosts’ first shot on target, finding the net after just eight minutes.

January 19, 2025
Report: Premier League Defender Prefers Transfer to Liverpool over Manchester United

“Premier League Giants Liverpool and Manchester United Eye New Left-Back Signings”

Both Liverpool and Manchester United are seeking to strengthen their left-back positions this year, with Liverpool struggling due to Andy Robertson’s poor form and Manchester United dealing with Luke Shaw’s fitness issues.

Arne Slot at Liverpool and Ruben Amorim at Manchester United are both focused on resolving this issue.

While Robertson’s struggles have hurt Liverpool, Manchester United has had to rely on Diogo Dalot, a natural right-back, in the left-back role.

Milos Kerkez, a Bournemouth left-back, has emerged as a target for both clubs, as well as for Manchester City.

iNews reports that Kerkez prefers a move to Liverpool over Manchester United.

The report states that all three Premier League clubs have contacted the player’s representatives, but Kerkez is keen on playing for the Premier League leaders.

Liverpool’s director of football, Richard Hughes, who previously worked at Bournemouth and brought Kerkez to England, is a factor in the player’s preference for a move to Anfield.

This connection gives Liverpool an advantage over Manchester United and Manchester City in the race to sign the talented left-back.

Bournemouth are not open to negotiations this month, meaning interested clubs will have to wait until the summer transfer window to make a move.

Kerkez is valued at approximately £50 million by Bournemouth, and it remains to be seen if the interested clubs are willing to meet that asking price.

Milos Kerkez would be a perfect fit for Liverpool

The Hungarian defender excels both defensively and offensively, making him well-suited to Liverpool’s attacking style.

He could be the left-back equivalent of Trent Alexander-Arnold, contributing to offensive moves while also strengthening the defense.

Kerkez’s forward runs and attacking contributions would be highly valued by Liverpool fans.

With Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas’ poor performances this season, it’s clear that Liverpool needs a new left-back.

Additionally, Liverpool has been linked with Wolves’ Rayan Ait-Nouri, another left-back who has impressed the club’s management.

January 18, 2025
Richard Hughes Faces Crucial Liverpool Decision as January Transfer Talk Heats Up

As the January transfer window continues, Liverpool remains notably silent while their Premier League rivals start to strengthen their squads. With the window halfway through, there’s been little movement in terms of completed deals, leaving many Reds fans growing restless. As other clubs, especially those close to the top of the table, gear up to bolster their ranks, Liverpool’s inactivity stands in stark contrast.

So far, the only significant signings in the Premier League have been from clubs in need of reinforcement. Tottenham Hotspur secured reserve goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky, while Aston Villa signed Donyell Malen, Brighton brought in Diego Gomez from Inter Miami, and struggling teams like Ipswich Town, Leicester City, and Wolves have also made moves. But for the most part, those near the top of the table, including Liverpool, have kept their powder dry.

Traditionally, the January window sees either early moves, like Liverpool’s signing of Cody Gakpo last year, or a last-minute rush as clubs assess their needs for the remainder of the season. For Manchester City, who have not had the best first half of the season, this January could see the most activity. They’ve already agreed to a £33.6 million deal for Abdukodir Khusanov from Lens and are reportedly close to signing Omar Marmoush from Eintracht Frankfurt.

Arsenal also appears ready to make moves, with the club nearing a deal to bring Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad this summer. This will likely stir up even more frustration among Liverpool supporters, many of whom remember their club’s past interest in Zubimendi before his decision to stay in Spain.

Despite Liverpool’s strong position, sitting atop both the Premier League and Champions League tables, the absence of new signings has raised concerns. Under Arne Slot, the team has performed well, but with only Federico Chiesa as a new addition—limited to just one start—fans are anxious for reinforcements. In previous years, Liverpool has strengthened during the winter window, with Takumi Minamino joining in 2020 and Luis Díaz arriving in 2022, playing pivotal roles in the club’s challenges for major titles.

What sets this year apart, however, is the significant overhaul of the club’s structure. Jurgen Klopp is still at the helm, but the departure of sporting director Michael Edwards and recruitment chief Julian Ward has left a gap. Richard Hughes, who took over as sporting director last year, faces the difficult task of getting up to speed with the club’s recruitment strategy, including negotiating contract extensions for key players like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, and Virgil van Dijk.

This lack of activity has created some nervousness among the fanbase, and now, more than ever, the spotlight is on Hughes. While Slot and his players continue to show their worth on the pitch, Hughes has the opportunity to calm rising tensions by either securing a new signing or wrapping up key contracts. If he can deliver during this window, it would not only strengthen Liverpool’s squad but also help alleviate some of the growing pressure surrounding his position.

January 18, 2025
Slot Speaks: Injury Update and Tactical Plans for Forest Clash

Liverpool boss Arne Slot spoke to the media ahead of his team’s eagerly awaited clash with Nottingham Forest on Tuesday, providing an update on his squad’s fitness. Unfortunately for Liverpool, there was disappointing news regarding Joe Gomez’s recovery.

“[Gomez is] quite far [from fitness],” Slot said. “He’s definitely not training with the team yet. And Darwin is suspended. Those are the two we will miss tomorrow.”

Gomez, who suffered a muscle injury during last month’s match against West Ham United, still has no confirmed return date, leaving Liverpool light in defense.

Apart from Núñez’s suspension and Gomez’s injury, Slot confirmed that there are no new fitness concerns, though the lingering effects of illness could still be a factor. It’s still unclear whether the illness that sidelined Dominic Szoboszlai for a short period has had a lasting impact, or if it played a role in Jarell Quansah‘s withdrawal during his last start for the club.

Turning attention to Nottingham Forest, Slot anticipates changes in the lineup compared to their previous meeting.

“I watched it back because I wanted to see what we did back then in terms of tactics and what we could do now. I assume, but I’m not sure of course because I don’t make the line-up for Forest, but back then it was already a surprise for us that [Callum] Hudson-Odoi and [Anthony] Elanga weren’t playing,” Slot reflected.

“But they are playing so well now that it would again be a surprise to me if they don’t start now. Back then, they didn’t start and they played more with midfielders in these positions.”

He added, “So, we have to wait and see. We are prepared for both, of course. But that we have to do better than that game, that is clear. And they have still a similar playing style, like we still have the similar playing style. So we have to look into the details [for] what we can do better than that game.”

Both Hudson-Odoi and Elanga will likely exploit the spaces behind Liverpool’s fullbacks, targeting a counter-attacking strategy that has caused trouble for the Reds in previous encounters. As Forest aims for a potential double over Liverpool, the team must be ready to counter these challenges and improve on their previous performances.

January 14, 2025