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Arsenal’s trip to Dubai for a warm-weather break has had a significant impact on their performance in 2024. Since returning from their mid-January break, Arsenal has achieved five consecutive victories and scored a total of 21 goals. These goals have come from nine different players, highlighting the importance that Mikel Arteta placed on everyone contributing during their time in Dubai.
The trip provided Arsenal with a fresh setting to unwind and relax. Arteta believed that privacy and relaxation would benefit his players in the long run. He even invited the players’ families to join them, further enhancing the squad’s relaxation and bonding. The break allowed Arsenal to refocus away from the media attention and engage in warm weather training.
Arteta’s attention to detail was evident during the mid-season camp. While the players worked hard, it also provided an opportunity for them to recharge their batteries. Arteta took advantage of the break to have one-on-one conversations with various players, including Bukayo Saka, who has been exceptional since returning from Dubai. This break allowed Arteta to step away from the usual matchday routine and plan for upcoming important games. If Arsenal can maintain their current form, they will be strong contenders for the title until the end.
Kylian Mbappe’s move to Real Madrid is one step closer as he has informed PSG of his intention to leave at the end of the season. The details of his exit are yet to be finalized, but PSG will be financially protected regardless of the outcome. Mbappe may leave on a free transfer, forfeiting significant bonuses, or he may negotiate a payment to PSG from his signing-on bonus, which could amount to as much as €150m.
While there have been suggestions of a move to the Premier League, particularly to Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea, these links have been downplayed by the clubs. Recent reports of a meeting between Mbappe’s camp and Manchester City have not been confirmed. It is likely a tactic by Mbappe to gain leverage in his negotiations with Real Madrid.
Mbappe has a contract to review, which spans five years. It is only a matter of time before he signs, despite the lower base wage compared to PSG’s offer. However, he does require permission to participate in both Euro 2024 and the Paris Olympics, which clashes with Real Madrid’s pre-season tour in the US. It is expected that the parties will reach an agreement soon, with Mbappe’s destination becoming clear.
PSG will benefit financially from Mbappe’s departure, saving approximately €200m. This money will be reinvested in their summer budget, with a focus on signing a striker, midfielder, and center-back. While Napoli’s Victor Osimhen is a top target, Chelsea and Arsenal may have a chance to secure his services if he prefers a move to the Premier League. PSG is also considering Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Milan’s Rafael Leao as potential forwards.
In terms of midfield targets, PSG is interested in Bernardo Silva from Manchester City and Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle. Guimaraes has a release clause of over £100m, and if Newcastle fails to qualify for the Champions League, PSG may have an opportunity to sign him. Barcelona’s Gavi is also on PSG’s radar, although prying him away from his current club will be challenging due to his €1bn release clause.
Defensively, PSG is considering Lille’s Leny Yoro, Jonathan Tah from Leverkusen, and Ousmane Diomande from Sporting. Chelsea’s Levi Colwill is highly regarded by PSG, but he is not available for transfer at the moment. Liverpool’s search for a new manager is focused on finding a sporting director first, who will then have input on Jurgen Klopp’s replacement. Xabi Alonso is a favorite for the Liverpool manager position, but Leverkusen’s current form and the possibility of leading them in the Champions League next season may influence his decision. Bayern Munich is not as appealing to Alonso as Liverpool, even if he becomes a potential replacement for Thomas Tuchel.
Liverpool is expected to shortlist up to seven candidates for the manager position, including Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi. They may also consider making another attempt to bring back Michael Edwards as their sporting director. The priority for Liverpool is to have the senior recruitment executive in place as soon as possible, followed by the appointment of the new manager before the end of the season.
According to the Source caughtoffside.com