Last dance? Lionel Messi got the Barcelona band back together for this MLS postseason push – now it's time for Inter Miami to win

With Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba retiring and Luis Suarez' slowing, its time for Messi and Miami to deliver

Lionel Messi bringing together the remnants of great Barcelona teams past in Miami was a beautiful thing. It was a side for the football romantics. Many who watched Messi in Barca would have seen him connect, play and win with his compadres.

Jordi Alba was the left back who had assisted Messi more than anyone else. Luis Suarez developed the kind of attacking chemistry that many can only ever dream of. And Sergio Busquets was at the base of midfield, winning everything and metronomically ticking the game over. 

That quartet was the spine of one of the best sides in the history of the sport. Their reunification in Florida just right. You can imagine the "We're getting the band back together" style meeting. It was probably over WhatsApp. Maybe there was a Zoom call involved. Honestly, it may have gone through agents. 

They reunited, and the assumption was that they would win, early and often. The reality has been far from the case. The vibes are immaculate. The romanticism is clear to see. Their desire to continue to perform at a high level cannot be questioned, either. But results have remained elusive.

And time, it seems, is running out. Alba and Busquets are retiring at the end of the season. Suarez may yet do the same. And even if Messi just signed a three-year extension with the club, there is a sense that this is the last ride for the Catalonian boys in Miami. The band is breaking up, and on the dawn of MLS playoffs, they have one last chance at a big hit.

  • Imagn

    The Barcelona connection

    There is a beautiful circularity to the story of these four. They last played for the same Barca team in 2020. That iteration of Barca underperformed slightly, in the sense that they had the sheer audacity to win La Liga. Still, the currency of playing for is trophies, and the quartet ultimately failed. 

    After that, they dispersed. Suarez bolted for Atletico Madrid once it became clear that Barca were going through something of a transition. Messi, unthinkably, left soon after, starting the strange fever dream era in which he played for PSG (a saga that was defined by him skipping a couple games, scoring some outrageous goals, and ultimately winning a World Cup with Argentina). Then the move to Miami in 2023.

    Alba and Busquets stuck around, the elder statesmen on what was a strange era of La Liga. Barca and Real Madrid were both in transition. Xavi – if only to complete the old-teammate vibe – came in as manager. They won La Liga in 2023, and then both bolted for Miami. 

    Suarez did the same, albeit after a sabbatical in South American soccer with Gremio. His signature was surprising; he had spoken openly about his body breaking down in real time. But the appeal of Miami – and reunification with his old friends – was too much to turn down.

    Miami, in turn, were a strange outfit. They barreled their way through the 2024 regular season, making a mockery of the league, setting a new points record and claiming the Supporters' Shield. They were, by extension, playoff favorites. And they failed to live up to that tag in quite remarkable fashion, losing in the first round to eighth-seeded Atlanta United. 

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    The challenges of a new season

    Heading into this campaign, the writing was on the wall. There was scattered talk that Suarez could retire at the end of last season, but he stuck around. Busquets and Alba were playing on expiring contracts. All of the signings Miami made over the winter – Tadeo Allende, Telasco Segovia, Maxi Falcon – seemed shrewd options, the kind of foreign talent that, in theory, makes a win-now MLS team.

    The addition of Javier Mascherano as manager, meanwhile, was a massive keep-Messi-happy move.

    Miami have gone about their business admittedly well – especially given the flaws. There was always going to be a hefty workload, with CONCACAF Champions Cup, Club World Cup and Leagues Cup added to an already packed MLS schedule. Across all competitions, they played 57 matches, won 31, lost 12 and drew 14.

    They are scoring more than two goals per game, possess the best attack in MLS and, crucially, have managed to stay relatively healthy throughout. 

    Some midseason transfer activity was smart. Benjamin Cremaschi openly criticized his coach, and was swiftly sent to Parma – his Miami future seemingly over. Rodrigo De Paul's signing was an immense upgrade in the midfield, and also perhaps a signifier of Busquets' impending retirement.

    Sure, they missed out on a centerback that they badly needed. But zoom out, consider the angles and think about the scope of MLS – a league in which playoff success is everything – and they are better set up for a run than last year's group. 

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    What would success be?

    It's important to consider, though, what exactly success for Miami would look like. The numbers suggest that this is a good MLS side, led by someone who is, to say the least, a clear difference-maker. But their finish in the Eastern Conference – third, and one point off first – is indicative of where they are as a team.

    FC Cincinnati (second) are more well-rounded and have plenty of weapons. First-place Philadelphia Union are wonderfully consistent and will likely be able to deal with the rough and tumble of three-game playoff series. 

    In truth, Miami are right where they should be – especially given they have played 16 games more than Cincinnati and 18 more than Philadelphia with the other competitions. This is an older team being asked to play more games, and still came within one point of first place. In abstract, by the normal variables of modern soccer, this is effectively an overperformance.

    Miami don't have the time to recover, regroup, coach and train. They take it game-by-game . Anyone else would struggle. But of course, none of that really matters. Miami cannot point to heavy workloads, or make the "excuses" other clubs routinely use. Talent alone renders all of that irrelevant. 

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    Nashville and the realities of a tough matchup

    On MLS Decision Day, Miami looked something close to their scintillating best. They turned in a very Miami performance. They were battered for 20 minutes, and really should have gone down a goal or two. And then, the main men woke up. Alba found Messi, who scored. Nashville responded twice and went up 2-1 at halftime. 

    Then, the Blaugrana boys turned it on properly. Messi scored twice more in the second half, and set up a third. Alba purred up the left wing. Suarez was a constant irritant and saw a couple of shots well denied. Still, 5-2 wins don't always keep coaches happy. Sure, it's nice to score five. But conceding twice isn't the hallmark of a team in control.

    Control, however, has never been Miami's thing. And that's why they are so dangerous. This side can wake up in an instant, and rattle off four second-half goals without breaking a sweat. They sacrifice defense in the name of a rip-roaring attack. Is it borderline reckless, and the kind of thing that might see them undone? Sure, but it's the way they play. 

    Nashville, Miami's opponent in this rematch from Decision Day, will be tricky. Last's week's loss notwithstanding, they are structured, disciplined, well coached, and have excellent attacking players, Hany Mukhtar and the ruthless Sam Surridge. There likely won't be any more 5-2 Miami wins here. 

تشكيل الأهلي المتوقع أمام بتروجيت اليوم في الدوري المصري

يخوض النادي الأهلي مباراة قوية ضد نادي بتروجيت، مساء اليوم الأربعاء، في إطار منافسات بطولة الدوري المصري الممتاز، على ملعب استاد الكلية الحربية.

ويلتقي الأهلي مع بتروجيت، في منافسات الجولة الثانية عشر من عمر مباريات بطولة الدوري المصري، إذ ينطلق اللقاء في تمام الساعة 8 مساءً بتوقيت القاهرة.

طالع | تشكيل الأهلي الرسمي أمام بتروجيت في الدوري المصري.. طاهر يقود الهجوم 

ويسعى النادي الأهلي، إلى تحقيق الفوز الرابع على التوالي مع الجهاز الفني الجديد بقيادة ييس توروب، بالإضافة إلى العودة إلى صدارة ترتيب الدوري المصري.

النادي الأهلي يخوض المباراة، وهو يحتل المركز الثاني في جدول ترتيب الدوري المصري، برصيد 21 نقطة، من 10 مباريات، إذ حقق الفوز في 6 مباريات وتعادل في 3 وخسر في لقاء.

ومن المتوقع  أن يشهد تشكيل الأهلي حسب التدريبات الختامية، أن يعود المدرب الدنماركي ييس توروب بالدفع بمحمد الشناوي في مركز حراسة المرمى بعد غيابه عن المباراة الماضية للإصابة.

ومن المنتظر أن تتواجد القوة الضاربة للنادي الأهلي، المكونة من أحمد سيد زيزو وأشرف بن شرقي ومحمود حسن تريزيجيه والمهاجم السلوفيني جراديشار. تشكيل الأهلي المتوقع أمام بتروجيت اليوم في الدوري المصري

حراسة المرمى: محمد الشناوي.

خط الدفاع: محمد هاني، ياسر إبراهيم، ياسين مرعي ومحمد شكري.

خط الوسط: أليود ديانج، محمد علي بن رمضان ومحمود حسن تريزيجيه.

خط الهجوم: أشرف بن شرقي، أحمد سيد زيزو وجراديشار.

Arsenal looking at £40m move for "one of the best young CMs in Europe"

Arsenal scouts have watched a “world-class talent” in action a number of times already this season, and they could be set to battle Tottenham Hotspur for his signature.

Gunners looking to bolster options in midfield

Mikel Arteta made major improvements to his squad in the summer transfer window, and Martin Zubimendi is already looking like a very astute signing, having been singled out for praise after scoring twice in the 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest at the weekend.

Former Watford striker Troy Deeney said: “The technique on the first of his two goals against Nottingham Forest was frightening. It would have been so easy to get over that and put it into Row Z, and his header was nice as well.

“We see so many players that can’t head a ball any more and it was really calm. He ran the show and that is why Arsenal brought him in. They want him to be that maestro when they have loads of the ball.”

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Christian Norgaard also arrived at the Emirates Stadium in the summer, meaning Arteta should be very well-stocked in the engine room this season, but the north Londoners have now joined the race for another central midfielder.

That is according to a report from journalist Ahad Shaukhat for the Daily Briefing, who states Arsenal scouts have now watched Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi on a number of occasions already.

Bouaddi is being targeted by a number of top clubs from across Europe, with bitter rivals Tottenham also in the race for his signature, but there have been suggestions a deal could be on the expensive side.

The 17-year-old has been widely reported to have a price tag of £40m, which would be a huge amount to pay for a teenager.

"World-class talent" Bouaddi is one for the future

Despite his age, the young Frenchman has already established himself as a regular starter for Lille, making a total of 58 senior appearances for the French club, including four in Ligue 1 so far this season. Already he has emerged as “one of the best young midfielders in Europe”, in the words of football writer James Brooke.

Earlier this year, the Lille starlet also received very high praise from football talent scout Jacek Kulig, who lauded him as a “world-class talent”, while also describing the youngster as having “excellent technical capacity & ball carrying ability.”

That is underlined by the fact the Senlis-born ace ranks in the 90th percentile for successful take-ons per 90 over the past year, when compared to other midfielders, and the 85th percentile for tackles over the same timeframe.

Having already started to make a name for himself in Ligue 1, Bouaddi clearly has a lot of potential, and may not be too far off first-team level for a top Premier League club, so Arsenal should undoubtedly look to win the race for his signature.

A new Bergkamp: Arteta has spoken to £100k-p/w star about joining Arsenal

Arsenal are a club that have been blessed with an abundance of genuinely world-class players over the years.

In the current side, you have the likes of Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice, and then go back to the last Premier League-winning side, and it’s impossible to look past the likes of Thierry Henry, Patrick Vieira and Robert Pirès.

However, there is another superstar from the club’s past that many view as the most technically gifted player to wear the red and white: Dennis Bergkamp.

So, fans should be excited about reports linking the club with a player who could become Mikel Arteta’s own version of the Non-Flying Dutchman.

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Arsenal target their new Bergkamp

It’s been a good summer for Arsenal so far this year, as while they suffered two defeats in pre-season, they won their other three games and have been unusually busy in the market.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

New Sporting Director Andrea Berta has made six additions to the first team, with goalscoring phenomenon Viktor Gyokeres and midfield maestro Martin Zubimendi the marquee signings.

However, while that would have been more than enough business for the Gunners in summers past, it now looks like they’re trying to make at least one more addition to the team, someone who could be the new Bergkamp.

Dennis Bergkamp

At least that’s according to a recent report from Ben Jacobs, who has claimed that Arsenal are still very much interested in Eberechi Eze.

Moreover, Jacobs has revealed that while the Crystal Palace ace is open to a move to Tottenham Hotspur, he’s been in talks with Arteta and would “welcome an Arsenal bid.”

It’s not entirely clear how much the £100k-per-week star would cost, as reports from earlier this month claimed that his £68m release clause is set to expire on Friday.

It could therefore be a costly and complicated transfer to get over the line, but given Eze’s incredible ability, he’d be more than worth it, especially as he could be the club’s new Bergkamp.

Why Eze could be Arsenal's new Bergkamp

So it’s worth pointing out that we aren’t necessarily saying Eze is as good a player as Bergkamp was during his pomp, but he could be, and on top of that, there are some similarities between their transfers, or potential in the Palace ace’s case.

Crystal Palace's EberechiEzereacts

The first point is that, should this move happen, the 27-year-old Englishman would be joining the Gunners at a similar stage in his career to the Dutchman, who was 26 when he moved to Highbury from Inter Milan in 1995.

Moreover, as his move helped to usher in a period of incredible success for the North Londoners, it also feels like the Eagles star has the ability and could be that missing piece that finally brings success to Arteta’s project.

However, away from the similar circumstances around the moves, the other key similarity between the two players is their immense technical abilities.

For example, when he was at his best, the Amsterdam-born maestro was a joy to watch, someone who wouldn’t just score a goal or provide an assist, but do something so utterly brilliant with the ball at his feet that would often leave fans speechless.

The most famous example of this would undoubtedly be his goal against Newcastle United, but there are so many other instances during his time in England when he’d make the improbable seem blasé.

Now, while we are yet to see the former QPR gem score a goal quite as spectacular as that one at St James’ Park, he remains one of the most entertaining players to watch in England today and has a catalogue of strikes most could only dream of.

Eze’s recent form

Season

23/24

24/25

Appearances

36

43

Minutes

2285′

3303′

Goals

11

14

Assists

6

11

Goal Involvements per Match

0.47

0.58

Minutes per Goal Involvement

134.41′

132.12′

All Stats via Transfermarkt

Moreover, on top of scoring wonder goals, the “superstar” attacker, as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, is just as proficient at setting them up or completing the crucial action that leads to one of his teammates setting up a goal.

Finally, after goals and assists, the most exciting thing a player can do is beat an opposition defender with the ball at their feet, and that’s something the Greenwich-born “magician,” as dubbed by Micah Richards, can do with ease.

According to FBref, he ranks in the top 10% of attacking midfielders and wingers for successful take-ons in the Premier League last season.

Ultimately, even if it’s a costly and complicated transfer to get over the line, Arsenal should be doing all they can to sign Eze this month, as he could turn into Arteta’s Bergkamp.

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Better signing than Zubimendi: Arsenal plot late move for £78m "monster"

The international superstar would be a game-changer for Arsenal and Mikel Arteta…

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

Aug 11, 2025

'I'm really convinced' – Oliver Glasner lifts lid on Marc Guehi's mental state after Giovanni Leoni injury refuels Liverpool January transfer speculation

Oliver Glasner says Marc Guehi has shrugged off the disappointment of seeing a Liverpool transfer fall through and is now focusing only on Crystal Palace. The 25-year-old looked set to make a switch to Anfield on summer deadline day, only for the move to collapse at the eleventh hour. Amid speculation the Reds may return for him in January, Glasner has no concerns about Guehi's professionalism.

Leoni injury reignites Guehi to Liverpool links

After Guehi stayed put at Palace, despite Liverpool's deadline day approach, Bayern Munich have entered the race to sign the centre-back, although the former Chelsea man may have his sights set on Real Madrid. Los Blancos are said to be keen on bringing him to Santiago Bernabeu next summer when he will be a free agent, but the Reds may try and move for him in January – something the Eagles could be open to so that they at least secure a fee for him.

The Merseyside outfit have captain Virgil van Dijk as their defensive talisman, and Ibrahima Konate has ably supported him in recent times, but with summer signing and understudy Giovanni Leoni suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury this week, Guehi has swiftly come up on Liverpool's radar again. Whether he would join Arne Slot's side, who are a bit short of defensive options right now, for the second half of the season remains to be seen.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportGlasner praises Guehi's class

The Austrian did concede that Guehi was a tad disheartened that his Liverpool transfer did not come to pass, but his attitude and commitment to the cause for the Eagles has been exemplary. 

He told reporters: "I have no concerns at all [about Guehi]. I'm completely convinced, and I mention this quite often, as long as Marc is playing for Crystal Palace, he will be playing with 100 per cent. This is what I expect tomorrow [against Liverpool].

"I'm really convinced that he will show this again. He's an amazing player, he's in amazing shape. So I expect a great game from him. Of course, I had a conversation with Marc but I think you will expect it to maybe have been more or longer, it was really a very short conversation because it was easy. We talked before, we talked at the end of last season, we talked in off-season, we talked in the pre-season, and of course we talked after the transfer window closed but it was a five-minute conversation.

"On the other side, I'm really wondering why it's so outstanding if you stick to an agreement, it also shows you maybe what kind of times we are living in. If you sign a contract, let's say the normal thing is you stick to your contract, so we are praised for doing what we have to do, I think it's more the opposite, we should blame people who don't stick to their agreement.

"Of course he was a little bit disappointed at the beginning but he said 'no, it's fine, I like being here, I like the team, I like the staff, I like Crystal Palace, I'm a south London boy, it's all good, I will give my best,' and this is exactly what I knew would happen."

Glasner 'tired' of Guehi speculation amid Liverpool and Real Madrid interest

The Palace manager, who has guided his side to a 17-match unbeaten run, admitted he is a bit fed up with all the Guehi transfer speculation. But he acknowledges that it will undoubtedly come up in the January transfer window.

"Again, [the move to Liverpool] is gone. The window is closed, fortunately, so he's completely focused on Crystal Palace, on his performance and our performance and like always, it's good to have him as a captain," the Eagles boss said.

"I'm not talking about transfer discussions. We had this for three or four months, and it really made me tired. I don't want to talk about it. I know in January it will be again for one month. Even when I think about it, it makes me tired. So let's talk about this great game, the FA Cup winners against the Premier League. That's more important than all the other stuff."

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Getty ImagesGuehi to face suitors Liverpool

The England international will get a chance to show Liverpool what they are missing when Palace host the Premier League holders and early-season pacesetters at Selhurst Park on Saturday afternoon. If the Eagles win this weekend and results go their way, they could go second in the table.

Ousmane Dembele unwittingly implicated in bizarre 'confidential' PR campaign to promote Ballon d'Or hopes as company blames 18-year-old intern for offer to journalist

Ousmane Dembele's representatives have denied being part of a bizarre PR storm after a journalist revealed a "confidential" offer to secretly promote the Paris Saint-Germain attacker's Ballon d'Or chances online. The agency behind the offer has since blamed a "curious" 18-year-old intern and insisted that it was simply an exploratory email.

  • Journalist exposes alleged campaign to boost Dembele's Ballon d'Or bid

    PSG star Dembele has been unwittingly embroiled in a bizarre public relations controversy after a freelance journalist exposed a secret, paid offer to promote his Ballon d'Or candidacy online. According to an investigation by, sports writer Neal Gardner received an email with the subject "Confidential Collaboration Opportunity" from a creative agency, proposing a month-long campaign of "carefully crafted tweets" to "strengthen the narrative" around the French forward.

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    Agency blames 'curious' 18-year-old intern for bizarre approach

    After Gardner made the approach public on social media, the company was identified as India-based marketing agency Bangrr International. The firm's founder, Ali Husain, has since blamed the incident on an "unsolicited inquiry sent by a young intern" acting without authority. In a statement, Husain claimed the 18-year-old intern sent the email out of "educational curiosity" to research influencer rates and apologised to both Gardner and Dembele for the "misunderstanding."

  • Dembele's representatives deny any involvement in campaign

    The player has been completely distanced from the strange affair. When contacted for comment, Dembele's representatives emphatically denied having any knowledge of or involvement in the proposed social media campaign. Gardner himself stated he did not know who was funding the initiative before he chose to make the offer public to "raise awareness" of what he called a "ridiculous" situation.

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  • Campaign exposed after Ballon d'Or voting has already closed

    The entire premise of the campaign is shrouded in bizarre logic and flawed timing. The agency reportedly targeted Gardner, a known Barcelona fan, believing his pro-Dembele tweets would carry more weight. However, the most significant flaw is that the voting for the 2025 Ballon d'Or has already closed. The winner is set to be announced at the official awards ceremony in Paris next Monday, September 22, making the proposed month-long campaign entirely redundant.

Liverpool 2025-26 kit: New home, away, third & goalkeeper jerseys, release dates, shirt leaks & prices

Everything you need to know about the 2025-26 Liverpool kits, including leaks, where to buy and more.

Home

Home Kit

The new home kit brings back the 2006-07 Adidas vibes in bold “Strawberry Red”Clean white details and a timeless silhouette mark Adidas’ return to Anfield

From

$150

Buy Now!Away

Away Kit

A sleek “Wonder White” base with red Adidas accents and a bold new shield-framed crestPaired with black shorts and white socks, it’s a crisp, modern update on classic Liverpool style

From

$150

Buy Now!Third

Third Kit

Comes in a striking sea green base colour, with black stripes on the collar and sleeves.Drawing inspiration from the 1980s with striped trim, a modern take on the classic green Liverpool x Carlsberg shirts.

From

$100

Buy Now!Goalkeeper

Goalkeeper Kit

Combines two shades of green with black logos, featuring Adidas’ signature soundwave patternA potential pink variant and a third kit in black with gloss stripes and white Trefoil branding complete the set

From

$100

Buy Now!Home

Home Kit

The new home kit brings back the 2006-07 Adidas vibes in bold “Strawberry Red”Clean white details and a timeless silhouette mark Adidas’ return to Anfield

From

$150

Buy Now!Away

Away Kit

A sleek “Wonder White” base with red Adidas accents and a bold new shield-framed crestPaired with black shorts and white socks, it’s a crisp, modern update on classic Liverpool style

From

$150

Buy Now!Third

Third Kit

Comes in a striking sea green base colour, with black stripes on the collar and sleeves.Drawing inspiration from the 1980s with striped trim, a modern take on the classic green Liverpool x Carlsberg shirts.

From

$100

Buy Now!Goalkeeper

Goalkeeper Kit

Combines two shades of green with black logos, featuring Adidas’ signature soundwave patternA potential pink variant and a third kit in black with gloss stripes and white Trefoil branding complete the set

From

$100

Buy Now!Home

Home Kit

The new home kit brings back the 2006-07 Adidas vibes in bold “Strawberry Red”Clean white details and a timeless silhouette mark Adidas’ return to Anfield

From

$150

Buy Now!Away

Away Kit

A sleek “Wonder White” base with red Adidas accents and a bold new shield-framed crestPaired with black shorts and white socks, it’s a crisp, modern update on classic Liverpool style

From

$150

Buy Now!Third

Third Kit

Comes in a striking sea green base colour, with black stripes on the collar and sleeves.Drawing inspiration from the 1980s with striped trim, a modern take on the classic green Liverpool x Carlsberg shirts.

From

$100

Buy Now!Goalkeeper

Goalkeeper Kit

Combines two shades of green with black logos, featuring Adidas’ signature soundwave patternA potential pink variant and a third kit in black with gloss stripes and white Trefoil branding complete the set

From

$100

Buy Now!

Liverpool have once again partnered with Adidas, starting from the 2025-26 season. The end of the club's last contract with Nike paved the way for the return of the 'Three Stripes' to Anfield after 13 years.

The new deal, projected to bring in over £60 million annually, officially begun on August 1, 2025. This is Adidas' third time as Liverpool's official kit partner. Their previous collaborations were from 1985 to 1996 and then again from 2006 to 2012, before the partnerships with Warrior, New Balance and Nike.

Shop Liverpool 2025-26 kits at the LFC StoreBuy now

The Adidas kits from Liverpool's earlier Premier League period were famously worn by club legends such as Steven Gerrard, Jamie Carragher, Fernando Torres, and Luis Suarez, among others. During that time, the club secured one trophy, the 2012 League Cup.

Along with a different crest on every Liverpool shirt for 2025-26, Adidas has revived some of their older kit designs from when they took over from (Adidas-owned) Reebok as the club's official partner.

Here, GOAL brings you everything you need to know about the new Liverpool kits, including where to buy, prices, leaks, and more.

READ MORELiverpool mark adidas reunion with stunning home & away kitsAll the outstanding 2024-25 football kitsNew 2025-26 football kitsLiverpool, AdidasLiverpool 2025-26 home kit, release date & priceShop Liverpool 2025-26 kits at the LFC StoreBuy now

As tradition dictates, Liverpool's 2025-26 home kit by Adidas sticks with the club's iconic red — this time dubbed "Strawberry Red" — paired with crisp white accents for a clean, classic look.

When it comes to design, it’s a no-frills throwback. The new home shirt channels serious nostalgia, drawing clear inspiration from the 2006-07 kit, minus the oversized collar. Featuring cuffed sleeves, a simple crewneck, and white trim for the crest and sponsor, it’s a sharp, timeless piece that signals Adidas’ grand return to Anfield.

That 06-07 strip holds a special place in fans' hearts; it was the first kit Adidas crafted after taking over from Reebok in 2006, and was famously worn by club legends like Steven Gerrard, Xabi Alonso, and Daniel Agger.

Completing the look, both the shorts and socks for the 2025-26 home strip are drenched in that same bold Strawberry Red, keeping the aesthetic sleek and unified for the Reds’ new era.

Liverpool's brand-new 2025-26 home kit from Adidas has been officially on sale since August 1, 2025. Supporters can grab the standard short-sleeve version for £85 ($111), while the top-tier authentic edition will set you back £120 ($162).

Prefer long sleeves? The regular long-sleeve shirt comes in at £90 ($118), with the authentic version priced at £130 ($170). 

AdvertisementLiverpool, AdidasLiverpool 2025-26 away kit, release date & priceShop Liverpool 2025-26 kits at the LFC StoreBuy now

Liverpool’s 2025-26 away kit from Adidas brings a fresh, modern twist to the club’s rich tradition. Dominated by a sleek "Wonder White" tone, the shirt pops with sharp red Adidas branding and sleeve accents, complemented perfectly by black shorts and white socks for a crisp, balanced look.

What truly sets this jersey apart is the redesigned club crest. Rather than the classic standalone Liverbird, the emblem is now framed within a bold, contemporary shield – a subtle shift that gives the kit a revitalised yet unmistakably Liverpool identity.

The pricing for the Liverpool 2025-26 away kit resonates with that of the home kit.

adidas/LiverpoolLiverpool 2025-26 third kit, release date & priceShop Liverpool 2025-26 kits at the LFC StoreBuy now

The adidas and Liverpool 2025-26 third kit sports a striking sea green base colour, with black stripes on the collar and sleeves. Drawing inspiration from the 1980s with striped trim, this design could be a modern take on the classic green Liverpool x Carlsberg shirts, although this version features Standard Chartered on the front.

Furthermore, besides an adidas Originals trefoil logo, the third kit is set to showcase the current Liverbird inside the old crest. Hence, the vintage Liverpool crest will make for a present-day interpretation of the one used on kits from 1987-1992, a period when adidas was previously the kit partner.

The kit is completed with white shorts, alongside sea green socks finished with adidas Three Stripes and bold ‘LFC’ lettering.

The adidas x Liverpool 2025-26 third jersey is available from September 9, 2025.

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Liverpool GK kit 25-26Liverpool 2025-26 goalkeeper kit release date & priceShop Liverpool 2025-26 kits at the LFC StoreBuy now

Launched as part of the releasing of the home and away strips for the forthcoming campaign, the primary Adidas Liverpool 2025-26 goalkeeper kit features a combination of two shades of green with black logos. It's available to purchase for the same price as the home and away strips.

Additionally, there's consideration for Liverpool's goalkeepers to have a pink kit option. Both of these kits are expected to incorporate a soundwave design, which is a standard feature of the Adidas Competition 25 GK kit.

The third goalkeeper kit is slated to showcase black/gloss stripes complemented by white logos, collar, and stripes. Adidas has chosen to use the Trefoil logo for this third kit, aligning with the 25-26 third jersey design.

Tottenham advancing move for £24m defender after 'emerging' as favourites

Tottenham are reportedly now favourites to sign a “remarkable” defender this summer, with Thomas Frank’s side earmarking the addition of a centre-half as one of their key priorities before deadline day on September 1.

Levy told key condition to sign £47m Frank target as Tottenham open talks

Spurs have been informed of the requirements.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Jul 22, 2025

After Spurs triggered the obligation to buy clause in Kevin Danso’s deal, Frank currently boasts around six centre-backs in his squad right now – even if that number does include youngsters like Ashley Phillips and Luka Vuskovic.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

Despite this, The Telegraph and journalist Matt Law confirmed earlier this week that Tottenham are still looking into signing another central defender – with Crystal Palace stalwart Marc Guehi remaining on their agenda after Daniel Levy failed with an audacious £70 million bid for him in January.

While the focus right now appears to be finally concluding a deal for Nottingham Forest playmaker Morgan Gibbs-White, amid an ongoing legal dispute with Nuno Espirito Santo’s men over the transfer, it appears a new defender is also in Tottenham’s sights.

Nottingham Forest's MorganGibbs-Whitereacts after the match

“Tottenham remain confident about their chances of signing the player. But, obviously, now this is a legal topic. They need to have discussions directly with Nottingham Forest to find the solution,” said Fabrizio Romano on the GMS Market Madness podcast a few days ago.

“Of course, it changes the timing of the deal. Tottenham’s perfect plan was probably to sign Kudus and Gibbs-White in 24 or 48 hours. It is now going to take a bit longer, but they remain intent on signing the player. That is still their plan, so let’s see how it continues on the legal side. But, for sure, Tottenham still want Morgan Gibbs-White.”

In terms of the defensive addition Levy could make, a lot of noise has surrounded Bournemouth star Illia Zabarnyi, despite PSG’s lengthy talks for the Ukranian which stretch back for weeks (Fabrizio Romano).

He was a mainstay in Andoni Iraola’s backline last season, helping the Cherries to their best-ever Premier League points tally, and Bournemouth will undoubtedly be reluctant to lose another star defender after Dean Huijsen.

While media sources suggest that Zabarnyi has already agreed personal terms with PSG, a new report from journalist Pete O’Rourke states that Spurs are definitely not out of the race just yet.

Tottenham emerge as "the frontrunners" to sign Illia Zabarnyi

According to O’Rourke, in a piece for Football Insider, Tottenham “have now emerged as the frontrunners” to sign Zabarnyi ahead of PSG – with Spurs said to be advancing a move for the 22-year-old.

The Lilywhites could now hijack PSG’s deal for Zabarnyi, it would seem, but Levy will have to fork out north of £60 million, as Bournemouth attempt to make a handsome profit off the £24 million they originally paid for him.

Interestingly, Sky Italia reporter Gianluca Di Marzio claimed last week that Spurs are prepared to do just that, so this could be one to keep an eye on in the coming days.

In terms of Zabarnyi’s obvious quality, there is little doubt he’d upgrade Frank’s current options, with pundit Jamie Redknapp suggesting the Euro 2024 star didn’t quite get the credit he deserved last season.

“He is probably the most underrated player,” said Redknapp.

“I also spoke with Ukrainian legend Andriy Shevchenko, and he mentioned that Illia has everything it takes to reach the next level. Everyone is talking about Dean Huijsen. Yes, he is a fantastic young player, but Zabarnyi plays very aggressively in defense as well. I was genuinely impressed by him. He shows remarkable calmness on the pitch.”

Their next McTominay: Wilcox in talks to sign £51m "machine" for Man Utd

Manchester United desperately needed to hit the rebuild button this summer after a catastrophic 2024/25 season.

Indeed, the stale Red Devils slumped to a horrendous 15th place in the Premier League come the end of the 38-game slog, on top of also failing to secure a last-minute spot in Europe by coming up short in the Europa League final to Tottenham Hotspur.

Manchester United manager RubenAmorimbefore the match

Therefore, this summer does feel as if it’s make-or-break territory for Ruben Amorim in the constantly pressurised Red Devils hot-seat, with the Portuguese manager aiming to not sink under all the strain by landing some top talents to help his underperforming team push on next season.

Man Utd in talks to land £51m midfielder

Matheus Cunha has already joined the building, with Bryan Mbeumo looking likely to be the next high-profile capture.

Cunha’s capture certainly caught the eye, but Mbeumo would no doubt be the biggest statement here, considering he scored 20 goals last season for Brentford.

Yet, as far as rumours go, another excellent addition might soon be entering the developing United camp in the midfield areas.

Indeed, according to reports in Italy, United and Atalanta are currently locked in negotiations over the Red Devils landing Ederson from the Serie A titans.

It’s stated that Amorim and Co. were interested in the energetic Brazilian last summer when offering up a fee around £42m, but Atalanta were looking for an offer nearer to the £51m region to consider parting ways.

Atalanta's Ederson in action

Now, they could make this move a reality as talks continue, with it also being rumoured earlier in the hectic transfer window that Liverpool were intrigued by the possibility of landing the 25-year-old to bolster their own midfield department.

The Premier League strugglers aren’t blessed with depth in the middle of the park either, with both Christian Eriksen and Casemiro 33 years of age, meaning a new, fresh addition centrally would definitely boost Amorim’s side, away from just the high-profile addition of Cunha.

How Ederson can be United's new McTominay

Sealing a move for Ederson could mean United can finally get over the sad exit of Scott McTominay, with the lively South American a similar style of performer to the departed Scotsman, having also set Serie A alight with many standout performances.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Nobody would have anticipated the sharp rise McTominay would undergo when swapping his boyhood club for Antonio Conte’s Napoli last summer.

Indeed, just a season into his stay in Naples, the 61-time Scotland international steered Conte’s men to a triumphant Serie A title success.

He scored a sublime 12 goals and posted six assists in league action. Amazingly, he had only amassed seven more goals than this stunning amount when regularly plying his trade in the Premier League, even from a far greater tally of 178 clashes.

Ederson didn’t quite have a similarly impactful season for The Black and Blues, but he has shown over three seasons now in Bergamo a hunger to be involved in all phases of play, just like McTominay.

From 139 games and counting in the heart of the Atalanta midfield, the £51m “machine” – as he’s been labelled in the past by journalist Carlo Garganese – has collected 13 goals and four assists, with his relentless desire to get stuck in for his team’s cause also baring clear similarities to the ex-United academy product.

Ederson’s Serie A numbers (24/25)

Stat (* = per game)

Ederson

Games played

37

Goals scored

4

Assists

1

Touches*

65.9

Accurate passes*

45.5 (87%)

Key passes*

1.1

Big chances created

6

Ball recoveries*

5.0

Total duels won*

4.9

Stats by Sofascore

Glancing at the table above, Ederson actually beats McTominay when it comes to accurate passes per league clash in Serie A at 45.5 per clash compared to the Scotsman’s lesser 22.7, before you even begin to consider the Brazilian’s aggressiveness means he trumps McTominay’s ball recovery numbers too at five per match, next to his counterpart’s lower 4.2

Further heralded as “strong” by football journalist Tim Vickery in what he can offer in the midfield spots, this feels like it could be a golden capture on United’s end as they hunt down a similar star to McTominay.

Atalanta's Ademola Lookman celebrates scoring their third goal withEdersonand Matteo Ruggeri and completes his hat-trick.

United will have to hit the ground running next season to silence their loud naysayers, and with Ederson’s potential arrival onto the scene, Amorim’s options continue to look stronger and stronger all across the pitch.

Man Utd now negotiating "complex" big-money transfer to sell £200k-p/w star

He wants to leave.

ByTom Cunningham Jun 28, 2025

Wolves could sign instant Cunha replacement in "special" £25m talent

Wolverhampton Wanderers know they will enter the 2025/26 season without the services of Matheus Cunha.

The Brazilian is set to join Manchester United in a deal worth £62.5m in the coming weeks and this will leave the Old Gold short in the attacking department.

Wolverhampton Wanderers'MatheusCunha

Cunha was arguably the reason why Wolves remained in the Premier League last season. All good things must come to an end, however, and Vitor Pereira will now be looking to replace the former Atlético Madrid man when the transfer window opens.

Matheus Cunha's Wolves record

Cunha was the club’s biggest attacking threat last season. Not only did he top the scoring charts with 17 goals, while finishing second in the squad for assists with six in all competitions.

Indeed, Cunha registered the most goal involvements (21) in the squad during the Premier League, while also ranking first for big chances created (13), key passes per game (1.8) and successful dribbles per game (1.8).

Season

Games

Goals

Assists

2024/25

36

17

6

2023/24

36

14

8

2022/23

20

2

1

If it weren’t for his contributions in the final third, Wolves might have found themselves in graver danger towards the end of the season, that’s for sure.

Now the onus is on Pereira to find a suitable replacement for the Brazilian talisman. One who can hit the ground running at Molineux at the start of next season.

Could the manager target a player from a fellow Premier League club?

Wolves could land Premier League star as Cunha replacement

Last week, Birmingham World claimed that the Old Gold were considering making a move for James McAtee of Manchester City this summer.

A fee of around £25m appears to be what Pep Guardiola is set to demand for the youngster. Given that Pereira will have money to play with upon Cunha’s sale, this shouldn’t be a problem.

James McAtee

McAtee has already made 48 Premier League appearances throughout his embryonic career, scoring six goals and grabbing three assists.

Despite playing 27 times last term, only nine of these came in the starting XI. If McAtee wishes to fulfill his potential, moving to a club like Wolves will allow him to play every week.

Hailed as a “special player” by Guardiola, the Englishman would certainly offer something extra to the Wolves side next term.

Indeed, when compared to his positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues, McAtee ranks in the top 1% for goals (0.78) and the top 6% for total shots (3.53) per 90 over the previous 365 days.

If given chances, he will certainly score plenty of goals for Wolves. Furthermore, he also created two big chances and had a goal conversion percentage of 25% in the Premier League during the 2024/25 season.

This was despite averaging just 24 minutes per game for City. He might not be at the same level as Cunha just yet, but the English talent certainly has the tools required to eventually get there one day.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Pereira will need to act swiftly, as there are a few other teams also seeking a move for the City starlet this summer.

Offer made: Wolves submit bid for £42m star who "never puts a foot wrong"

The Old Gold have now made a move for a defender.

ByDominic Lund May 29, 2025

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