Latest news with #That'sFootball
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Report: Release Clause Could Trigger Gyökeres Transfer
Gyokeres to Arsenal? Sporting Star's Release Clause Sparks Race Viktor Gyökeres continues to dominate Premier League transfer chatter as Arsenal remain favourites to sign the prolific Sporting striker. Mark Goldbridge, speaking on his That's Football show, cut through the noise around the story, making it clear that while Arsenal are ahead in the race, the deal isn't sealed. Advertisement 'Arsenal obviously are the favourites to sign this player at the moment,' Goldbridge said, before addressing misleading claims from certain outlets. 'There was some stories coming out from, I would say, liars saying that Gyökeres was basically going to be a 'here we go' deal done last night. Not the case.' The forward, currently lighting it up at Sporting, is reportedly available for a fee that meets his release clause, with figures cited at £62 million. As Goldbridge added, 'Arsenal will pay the £62 million that Sporting want and they're looking to give him £7 million after tax, which is about £250,000 a week.' That figure would place Gyökeres among Arsenal's top earners, with Goldbridge highlighting that 'their top earner is actually Havertz on 280 grand a week.' Timing is Key in Sporting Star's Decision While financial terms may be aligned, the timing of the transfer is another matter. Sporting have important fixtures coming up which may delay the player's final decision. 'They've got a big game this weekend, Sporting, then they've got the cup final the week after. So he's not going to decide his future till after then,' Goldbridge explained. Advertisement This delay opens the door, if only slightly, for rival clubs like Manchester United to make their move. 'I'm hoping it might open the door for Man United if we're in the Europa League—but that's probably wishful thinking,' Goldbridge admitted. Release Clause Driving Early Market Movement Gyökeres' release clause has been a focal point for clubs looking to move quickly in a potentially hectic summer window. Goldbridge remarked, 'The credible sources from Portugal yesterday were saying that Arsenal will pay the £62 million that Sporting want.' It's a figure that's now forcing clubs into faster negotiations ahead of traditional timelines. 'I think we're going to get quite a lot of activity early on,' Goldbridge said. The presence of the Club World Cup and mounting pressure from fans and boards alike could mean that Gyökeres won't be the only player with a release clause activated early. Chelsea and United Monitoring Alternatives While Arsenal dominate the Gyökeres race, other clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United are monitoring other strikers, notably Liam Delap. However, even Goldbridge was sceptical about these pursuits. Advertisement 'Do we need another 22-year-old striker that's a project? Man United need goals,' he pointed out, while also questioning Chelsea's interest. 'I don't know why Chelsea are looking at him for the same reason.' Clubs may ultimately return to targets like Gyökeres who bring experience and an immediate impact. 'You'd probably be wanting a Gyökeres and Osimhen, you know, someone a little bit more experienced yourself,' Goldbridge concluded.
Yahoo
28-04-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Mark Goldbridge Salutes Liverpool's Premier League Triumph on That's Football
Liverpool Crowned Premier League Champions: A Testament to Mastery Liverpool are Premier League champions once again, and according to That's Football host Mark Goldbridge, it's a triumph that demands full respect — even if it's delivered 'through gritted teeth' from a Manchester United fan. Throughout the latest That's Football broadcast, Goldbridge and contributors laid out a passionate, detailed breakdown of Liverpool's incredible campaign, their seamless transition under Arne Slot, and why nobody could keep pace. Slot's Seamless Transition At Liverpool Mark Goldbridge pulled no punches in praising Arne Slot's impact, remarking, 'I find it baffling the disrespect he actually still gets.' Slot's arrival was never going to be simple following Jurgen Klopp's iconic tenure, but Goldbridge insisted, 'Liverpool Football Club got it spot on.' Instead of dismantling and rebuilding, Liverpool's hierarchy chose a brave but clever path — finish the project Klopp started. Advertisement 'It was a brave move and it was the right move,' Goldbridge said. 'It's ended up with the Premier League title which is very difficult to win when you think that Man City have won four of the last five.' Slot's achievement becomes even more remarkable considering he had to quickly win over a squad laden with title-winners like Alisson Becker, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, and Mohamed Salah. Dominance In Fourth Gear One of Goldbridge's most telling observations was how Liverpool managed their title run. 'Liverpool have won this title scarily in fourth gear,' he stated. 'I don't think they ever had to go to gear five.' Despite minor blips — notably the shock defeat to Nottingham Forest and a late-season loss to Fulham — Liverpool barely let their grip on the Premier League title loosen. Goldbridge noted that across a grueling nine-month season, Liverpool were relentless: 'They've never given anybody a hint or a sniff of getting back into this title race whether that be Arsenal, Chelsea or whoever else.' Two losses in a full league season is an astonishing feat, and while Arsenal or Manchester City faltered, Liverpool's consistency became their weapon. Unsung Heroes Behind The Glory While the headlines naturally celebrate the likes of Salah and Van Dijk, Goldbridge made a point to highlight Liverpool's midfield as crucial to their success. 'The unsung heroes of that Liverpool team is probably the midfield,' he said, singling out Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch for special praise, while also acknowledging the contributions of Curtis Jones and others. Advertisement 'You win games in the midfield,' Goldbridge asserted, reinforcing the importance of the summer rebuild led by Klopp before his departure. He even credited Klopp directly: 'Jurgen Klopp does deserve a shout out… I'm sure Arne Slot will say 'There's no way I could have done this without the foundations of what Jurgen Klopp left as well.'' Legacy Cemented And Future Questions As Liverpool celebrate their 20th league title — now level with Manchester United — the focus will inevitably turn to next season. Goldbridge admitted, 'I don't like the fact that they've levelled up with Manchester United on 20 titles,' but also acknowledged Liverpool's merit as 'worthy champions.' He warned that while Liverpool's dominance this season might seem routine, it was anything but. 'Some of the best Premier League seasons we've ever seen weren't because they were the best sides, it was because we got title races. It's not Liverpool's job to get someone in a title race. That was Man City's job. That was Arsenal's job.' Liverpool's remarkable campaign stands as a testament to brilliant planning, smart management, and relentless execution. Whether this is the start of a new Liverpool dynasty under Arne Slot remains to be seen — but in 2025, they sit deservedly at the summit of the Premier League.
Yahoo
26-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Mark Goldbridge on Liverpool Star Trent Alexander-Arnold's Real Madrid Move
On the latest episode of That's Football, Mark Goldbridge delivered a striking monologue about the future of Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is reportedly closing in on a free transfer to Real Madrid. With fans split over the legitimacy and implications of the move, Goldbridge didn't hold back. Referencing live fan reactions and recent media reports, the podcast host laid out his perspective with trademark candour. According to Goldbridge, fresh reports from Sky Sports claim that Trent Alexander-Arnold has 'agreed terms with Real Madrid on a 5-year contract' and is set to leave Liverpool on a free. Goldbridge remarked, 'I'm sort of perplexed by this one, I really am. Talk to me Liverpool fans, what is your issue with this story?' In his view, this isn't a sudden development. 'He's been going in my mind for months,' he asserted. Goldbridge challenged the fanbase's reaction, noting that Alexander-Arnold has not 'at any point shown any sort of loyalty or interest in staying at Liverpool.' He also touched on the business logic behind the move, highlighting the financial dynamics at play. 'Real Madrid are going to go, 'We want a right back. We want Trent anyway. We would probably pay tens of millions of pounds for him. We don't have to.'' Goldbridge didn't shy away from the emotional side of the story either. Acknowledging the loyalty Liverpool fans feel, he commented, 'It does leave Liverpool fans – who are a very loyal set of fans who pride themselves on their club and their city – feeling a little bit sour, of course. But this is the modern game.' He was equally clear on whether fans should expect a last-minute change of heart. 'He's going to go to Real Madrid,' he stated firmly. However, he left a sliver of possibility open, saying, 'We might be doing a video in a couple of weeks going, 'I can't believe it.'' In one of the podcast's more pointed observations, Goldbridge asked, 'Has he not got a right to say, 'Okay, if you want me to stay, match that offer and we'll talk'?' Liverpool, he argued, cannot meet the financial package Real Madrid are likely to provide, and the club's ownership model complicates matters further. 'You're not dealing with Liverpool fans,' he said. 'You're dealing with business people.' Despite the criticism of his contract situation, Goldbridge acknowledged Trent Alexander-Arnold's significant contributions to Liverpool, saying, 'He's played for Liverpool. He's been a very good player for Liverpool. That's why he's going to Real Madrid.' He also compared the situation to past icons, saying, 'Steven Gerrard was rumoured to be going, wasn't he?' In Goldbridge's eyes, loyalty in football 'comes at a price,' and Liverpool simply cannot match what Real Madrid will place on the table. Finally, he summed up the nature of the game today: 'The fans are the ones that suffer. They always are.' Mark Goldbridge's candid take on That's Football pulls no punches. If the reports prove accurate, Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold will join a list of elite players making high-profile moves to Spain. The move reflects broader tensions between modern football's financial realities and the emotional loyalty fans still cling to. Whether or not the transfer becomes official in the coming weeks, Goldbridge's commentary underlines a key truth: 'Loyalty in football comes at a price,' and right now, Real Madrid seem willing to pay it.
Yahoo
24-02-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Mark Goldbridge on Liverpool's Premier League Charge and Arsenal's Struggles
Liverpool have all but secured the Premier League title, and with their commanding performances, it's hard to argue against them. That's Football's Mark Goldbridge was unequivocal in his assessment: 'It might not be mathematical, but with 11 games to go they have an 11-point lead.' The latest victory against Manchester City only reinforced Liverpool's superiority this season, as they remain the 'most complete team in the Premier League.' Goldbridge highlighted how Liverpool have faced doubts throughout the season but have always responded in style: 'People said when Tarkowski got the late equaliser, Liverpool were crumbling. People said when Villa got a point the other night, Liverpool were crumbling.' Yet, despite these challenges, Liverpool continue to demonstrate resilience and dominance, proving their title credentials. One of the standout factors in their success has been their defensive solidity. Goldbridge praised the centre-back partnership of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté, stating, 'I think we've got the two best centre-back partnerships in world football at the moment.' Their ability to maintain clean sheets has been a crucial element in their title charge. While Liverpool have shown balance across the pitch, Arsenal's title challenge has faltered due to a lack of goals. 'Look at Arsenal—they've got the defence, they've got the midfield, but they haven't got the goals,' Goldbridge remarked. He further pointed out that this issue is not new, saying, 'It's been a weakness of Arsenal's for 18 months.' With Arsenal failing to strengthen their attack in the January transfer window and struggling with injuries, Goldbridge believes their title challenge is all but over: 'Arsenal are done. They're absolutely done. Like, there's no way back.' Liverpool's success this season has also sparked discussions about the influence of their new manager, Arne Slot. While many have credited Jurgen Klopp's foundational work, Goldbridge was quick to highlight Slot's impressive job: 'Yes, Klopp built the foundations. Yes, Klopp would have won the league. But Arne Slot isn't Jurgen Klopp. He's had to come in and, with no transfers, take Klopp's team and… take them up a level.' Goldbridge emphasised how managerial transitions often lead to struggles but commended Slot for maintaining and even enhancing Liverpool's performance: 'You might have a successful restaurant, a successful football team—you change the manager, and the workers don't necessarily respect or understand or work as hard for the new manager. For Arne Slot to go in there with that set of players and take them up a level, I think he deserves a massive amount of credit.' With the Premier League seemingly secured, Liverpool could shift their focus to other competitions. Goldbridge hinted at the possibility of further silverware: 'Liverpool could end up with a Champions League and a Premier League this year, which is no small feat.' He also pointed out the frightening prospect for rival clubs if Liverpool continue at their current pace: 'By mid-April, they might be holding the Premier League title, and if they're still in the Champions League… they could rotate and focus on that.' This could spell trouble for other European giants as Liverpool chase another historic season.
Yahoo
15-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Manchester City Court Case Victory Plunges Premier League into Crisis
Manchester City has won a significant court case against the Premier League, leaving England's top football division in turmoil. Mark Goldbridge, speaking on the That's Football YouTube channel, described the situation as a 'massive embarrassment' for the league, warning of far-reaching implications for competitive integrity and financial regulation. The dispute centred on the Premier League's Associated Party Transactions (APT) rules, introduced in 2021 to prevent clubs from securing inflated sponsorship deals with companies linked to their owners. City challenged these regulations and, as Goldbridge explained, the tribunal found the rules 'not correct,' handing victory to the club. Goldbridge highlighted the significance of this verdict, saying: 'The Premier League have lost that. There are massive ramifications for that.' He pointed out that the decision could enable clubs like Manchester City and Newcastle United to pursue lucrative sponsorship agreements with state-linked businesses, potentially distorting the competitive balance. The Daily Mail's Mike Keegan, credited by Goldbridge during the podcast, first reported the story, describing how the ruling undermines rules designed to curb inflated sponsorships. Goldbridge summed up the implications: 'If Newcastle or Man City feel they've had a deal turned down that would have helped them be more competitive, they could sue for loss of earnings.' The ruling could spark further legal action, with City and Newcastle potentially suing the Premier League for lost earnings over the past three years. Goldbridge warned of 'massive impacts on the future of football' if clubs start claiming compensation, adding: 'This could be massively helpful to rich football clubs and a massive issue for clubs with owners who want to make money.' He also raised concerns about how the decision might impact the league's ongoing investigation into 115 alleged breaches of financial rules by Manchester City. While the two cases are distinct, Goldbridge speculated that City's legal strategy might hinge on exposing weaknesses in the league's governance to undermine the broader case against them. 'Man City will do what many of us predicted – expose the Premier League's weaknesses and potentially negotiate a deal that suits them.' Goldbridge expressed deep concern about the future of the league's competitive integrity if clubs with wealthy owners can inject unlimited funds through related-party sponsorships. 'What's the point of having any football league if you've got one or two clubs throwing billions in while everyone else can't?' he asked, warning that football could become a 'billionaire's playground.' He also questioned the fairness of existing financial practices, pointing out that clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool benefit from shareholder loans at favourable rates. 'If Arsenal and Liverpool can get favourable loans, why can't City and Newcastle get favourable sponsorship deals?' Goldbridge argued, suggesting that the league's rules might have been inconsistently applied. Looking beyond City and Newcastle, Goldbridge voiced concerns about how the ruling might impact other clubs, particularly his own club, Manchester United. He noted that the club's new part-owners, INEOS, have pursued a self-sustaining financial strategy that could now be rendered obsolete. 'If these rules come in and rich owners can get money into their clubs quite easily, then Manchester United's whole strategy just died tonight,' Goldbridge warned. He compared the situation to a local shop competing against a supermarket giant, predicting that financial disparity would grow unchecked. 'Fans should be protesting now because football will become all about who has the richest owners.' Concluding his analysis, Goldbridge painted a bleak picture of the league's future if it fails to respond decisively. 'The Premier League is the best league in the world, the most watched league in the world, but this could be the beginning of the end,' he said. He called for clearer, fairer regulations to prevent excessive financial influence from distorting the competition while acknowledging that the damage might already be done. 'I just don't think the Premier League are competent enough to take on Man City and win,' Goldbridge concluded, suggesting that the league's authority now hangs by a thread.
