Tommy Brown, a former shortstop, left fielder and pinch hitter for three MLB teams from 1944 to '45 and 1947 to '53, died Wednesday, according to a Wednesday afternoon social media post from Ben Lindbergh of . He was 97.
A native of Brooklyn, Brown was the final living member of the 1947 Brooklyn Dodgers—the team for which Jackie Robinson debuted at first base on April 15, integrating the National League.
Additionally, Brown was the last living major leaguer whose career began during World War II. With able-bodied men in short supply on the home front, Brown debuted for the Dodgers in '44 at the age of 16. In 1945, he hit a home run at the age of 17; he's still the youngest player ever to homer in the major leagues.
After a one-year stint in the army, Brown played in 15 games for Brooklyn in '47. In 1949, he saw his only postseason action, going 0-for-2 with a strikeout as a pinch hitter in the World Series against the New York Yankees.
Brown finished his big-league career with the Philadelphia Phillies and Chicago Cubs, and his baseball career more broadly with a quartet of minor-league teams.
Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi has accepted his "share of responsibility" for his side's poor form following their Champions League exit. However, returning forward Tim Weah has blasted talk of a "total crisis" at the club, pointing out they are still second in Ligue 1 and just two points behind reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain.
Weah dismisses 'total crisis' claims
Marseille are reeling from a 1-0 home defeat to Atalanta in the Champions League which followed a disappointing league draw against Angers, amplifying the pressure on the squad.
Despite their European exit, which leaves them 25th in the Champions League league phase, Marseille remain second in Ligue 1. They host Brest at the Stade Velodrome on Saturday, knowing a victory could send them to the top of the table – at least until PSG face Lyon the following day.
Weah, who is returning from injury, was defiant when facing the media, expressing his confusion at the severe external reaction to the team's form.
"I read that it's a total crisis and I don't understand anything," Weah stated. "It's not like we're 10th, we're two points behind Paris. We're not getting the results we want, but it's not the end of the world. We have to stay focused on our work and not look at the others."
The United States international, who has played for other high-pressure clubs including PSG, Juventus and Celtic, insisted the internal mentality remains positive.
"Pressure? It doesn't surprise me at all. When you lose it gets a bit crazy but players shouldn't look at that," Weah added. "The mentality of the group is very good. We just have to do the job, everyone is calm here, all the noise is outside."
While Weah acknowledged the team is "not playing our best football," he attributed the difficulties to a significant injury list rather than a fundamental flaw.
"There are a lot of injuries, important players, and it's difficult because you're playing matches every three days," he explained.
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De Zerbi accepts 'justified' criticism of poor form
De Zerbi, however, took a different tone and shouldered the blame for the performances that have frustrated the fanbase.
"The criticism of our play in the last three matches is justified, I say that without shame and I take my share of responsibility," De Zerbi admitted. "It's a difficult moment – like after Rennes – because we're not playing well. Losing against Atalanta and drawing against Angers has frustrated us."
He added: "The responsibility is mine."
De Zerbi provided a detailed update on his squad's fitness, revealing the extent of the personnel issues that have forced his hand.
Leonardo Balerdi remains unavailable for the Brest match. Geoffrey Kondogbia and Neal Maupay may only be fit enough for the bench with "reduced playing time." Weah's status will be assessed after training.
On a positive note, Emerson will return from suspension. De Zerbi is optimistic that the situation will improve significantly next week, projecting the return of Balerdi and "perhaps" Facundo Medina, while Kondogbia is expected to regain 100% fitness.
The manager also gave an update on Bilal Nadir, who collapsed last week, stating: "He trained with us yesterday. He's better but he's not yet at 100%. We'll assess him today, but if he's in the squad, he'll be on the bench."
Manager defends controversial rotation policy
The injury crisis was at the centre of De Zerbi's defence of his squad rotation, which has drawn criticism from supporters.
"Some say I change the lineup a lot, but do you think I change it because I'm confused or because I don't want to worsen the injury situation?" De Zerbi asked. "We're trying to manage playing time, to avoid a Nayef Aguerd getting injured like he did at Auxerre. It's the same for Balerdi at Lens.
"I don't like changing five or six players per match. But like all teams, you have to rotate the squad."
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De Zerbi analyses Atalanta defeat and tactical approach
Reflecting on the midweek Champions League exit, De Zerbi defended his tactical approach, including the team's tendency to pass backwards.
"You get frustrated when we go back, and I get frustrated when we retreat too," he said. "But sometimes, to move forward more effectively, it's also enough to simply pass the ball back once."
Despite the 1-0 loss, De Zerbi pointed to statistics as evidence that the performance was not as negative as the result suggested. Marseille registered 15 shots to Atalanta's six, with four on target.
"We had more shots on goal than Atalanta, we entered the box more often, but they scored. That disappoints me," he said.
Weah added that the team felt aggrieved by a refereeing decision in the match: "There's a real disappointment against Atalanta… It's a disappointment because there was a penalty, but we have to take responsibility because we didn't play a very good match."
Newcastle United’s wait to see Yoane Wissa in action goes on. The £55 million summer signing has suffered another delay in his recovery from a Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) injury sustained while on international duty with DR Congo. Eddie Howe has confirmed that Wissa is “not close” to making his debut and will almost certainly remain sidelined until after the November international break.
Wissa's wait for Newcastle debut goes on
Wissa’s highly anticipated debut for Newcastle United has been pushed back yet again as Howe revealed that the striker is still far from returning to full training. The 29-year-old sustained a PCL injury just a week after completing his £55 million transfer from Brentford on September 1, having picked up a knock while representing DR Congo. Despite earlier optimism that he could return before the next international break, Howe has confirmed that Wissa’s fitness is not yet at the required level for him to rejoin the first-team setup.
Newcastle had initially hoped the DR Congo international might be available for selection ahead of their Premier League clash against West Ham this weekend. However, those plans have been scrapped after the medical team advised caution, prioritising Wissa’s long-term fitness.
The injury setback is a frustrating twist for both player and manager, given how central Wissa was to Howe’s summer plans. Newcastle identified him as the ideal successor to Alexander Isak, who joined Liverpool for £130 million, but the club’s new marquee forward has yet to even train with his teammates since signing.
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Howe admits Wissa still not ready for action
Howe admitted his frustration at Wissa’s slow progress but stressed the importance of allowing the striker the time to recover fully. “It (his comeback) is definitely not West Ham (on Sunday),” the Newcastle boss confirmed. “He’s working very hard. He’s on the grass. He’s getting the fitness work in that he needs.”
The manager added that while Wissa is over the worst of his injury, he is still short of the physical sharpness needed to train with the squad. “I’d say he’s not close to training with the group at the moment, not through injury but through fitness, and making sure we build his robustness. I’m not trying to be evasive. I don’t know when the moment will be when he’s back with the squad.”
Howe also praised the DR Congo forward for his attitude during what has been a mentally testing period since his arrival on Tyneside. “He has a very strong character and that comes across,” Howe continued. “He’s good with the players, he’s very positive. He’s a leader. You can see that already.”
Wissa's spectacular move to Newcastle this summer
Wissa’s arrival on deadline day was seen as a major coup for Newcastle, following months of pursuit by the club’s recruitment team. The DR Congo star had been a standout performer for Brentford, scoring 19 Premier League goals in the 2024/25 season and earning widespread praise for his relentless pressing and clinical finishing. His £55 million transfer was part of Newcastle’s broader rebuild after Isak’s high-profile sale to Liverpool, with Wissa viewed as the perfect stylistic fit for Howe’s high-energy system.
However, the timing of his injury, sustained during international duty just days after signing, has been an immense blow. The 29-year-old forward has yet to train with his new teammates and has spent the past several weeks in an intensive individual recovery programme. Newcastle’s medical staff have been careful not to rush him, given the nature of the ligament injury and the risk of recurrence if he returns too early.
Off the pitch, Wissa has already made a strong impression in the dressing room. “He’s trying to inspire and help the players, which is sometimes very difficult when you come to a new club and you’re injured straight away,” Howe said. “That’s a real tough mental challenge for him to take on, especially with his transfer fee. There’ll be a lot of emotions going through him, but all he can focus on is trying to get fit and trying to make a difference on the pitch.”
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Wissa won't return before the November international break
Newcastle are mindful of easing Wissa into a squad that has struggled with injuries last season. Several key players, including Harvey Barnes, spent extended spells on the sidelines, making depth in attack a persistent issue.
Newcastle’s upcoming schedule means Wissa will likely be absent for their next two fixtures — the Champions League home clash with Athletic Bilbao and the Premier League trip to Brentford, ironically against his former club. Should his recovery continue smoothly, his debut may finally arrive after the November international break, potentially giving him the chance to feature in a string of key matches leading into the festive period.
The step up from the Championship to the Premier League was always going to be a challenging one for Leeds United after they won the second tier title in the 2024/25 campaign.
In the last two seasons, all six of the newly-promoted teams have been instantly relegated from the Premier League after coming up from the Championship, which illustrates how big the gap between the two divisions is.
Daniel Farke and the board knew that the squad would have to undergo some changes during the summer transfer window to give the club a fighting chance of avoiding relegation.
With a haul of eight points after seven matches, it is fair to say that it currently looks like the 49ers did good work in the window by signing the likes of Anton Stach, Sean Longstaff, Gabriel Gudmundsson, and Noah Okafor, among others.
Because of the step up in quality and physicality in the Premier League, some of the players who were instrumental for Farke in the Championship have found themselves falling down the pecking order.
One example of that is central midfielder Ao Tanaka, who is currently out of the starting XI and does not look like breaking into it any time soon.
Why Ao Tanaka is not a starter for Leeds
The Japan international was a star for the West Yorkshire outfit in the Championship in the 2024/25 campaign after his permanent move from Fortuna Düsseldorf in the summer of 2024.
Tanaka nailed down a place in the middle of the park, next to Ethan Ampadu, Joe Rothwell, or Ilia Gruev, to end the campaign with 37 starts in 43 appearances, per Sofascore.
The 27-year-old star was a midfield metronome for the Whites. He ranked within the top 2% of central midfielders in the league for pass accuracy (89.2%) and the top 7% for progressive passes per 90 (7.03), per FBref, which shows that he was incredibly reliable and progressive in possession.
Unfortunately, though, the step up in physicality in the Premier League appears to have been too much for the midfielder to deal with, as he has struggled physically and defensively this season.
Tackles
1
Bottom 4%
Duels won
5
Bottom 6%
Duel success rate
23.8%
Bottom 3%
Fouls committed
2
Bottom 24%
Ball recoveries
10
Bottom 32%
Dribbled past
6x
Bottom 10%
As you can see in the table above, Tanaka ranks among the worst midfielders in the division in a host of physical and defensive statistics, losing a whopping 76.2% of his duels.
Per Capology, though, the Japanese whiz is the third-lowest earner in the senior squad on £25k-per-week, which suggests that the Whites can afford to keep him as a back-up option.
Tanaka, who has started two matches in the Premier League this season, may have to settle for being a rotation player for Farke due to his lack of physicality, but his low wages suggest that the club should not be in a rush to move him on from Elland Road.
Meanwhile, there is a Leeds flop who earns more than the Japan international, despite playing fewer minutes, and should be on borrowed time in West Yorkshire.
Wage Burners
Football FanCast’s Wage Burners series explores the salaries of the modern-day game.
Illan Meslier has not played a single minute of competitive football in the 2025/26 campaign, and could be on his way out of the club in the not-too-distant future.
Why Leeds need to move on from Illan Meslier
Whilst Tanaka has, at least, started two league games and played in five league matches, the French goalkeeper has not made a single appearance for the club in any competition this season.
Per Capology, Meslier earns £30k-per-week at Elland Road. That is as much as Karl Darlow and Jayden Bogle, and more than Tanaka (£25k-per-week) and Ilia Gruev (£15k-per-week).
The left-footed goalkeeper, per Capology, has earned roughly £7m in wages in his Leeds career, which is due to soar to around £8.5m by the end of the current campaign, on top of the £5m fee that the Whites paid Lorient for his services.
This means that the Leeds flop, who was once dubbed a “massive liability” by journalist David Kent, has rinsed the club for £12m to date, and up to £13.5m by next summer.
The 25-year-old dud was the number one between the sticks for four seasons at Elland Road, including three in the Premier League and one in the Championship, but his underlying data shows that the situation was always heading to where it is now.
23/24 (Championship)
40
-3.1
22/23 (Premier League)
67
-12.4
21/22 (Premier League)
79
-16.2
20/21 (Premier League)
52
-3.4
Meslier consistently underperformed as a shot-stopper for the Whites and it finally cost him when Farke dropped him from the side at the end of the 2024/25 campaign to make Darlow the new number one.
The Wales international started the last seven games of the Championship season, after Meslier made three errors that led to goals (Sofascore), and Leeds won promotion to the Premier League with him in net.
The summer transfer window, as aforementioned, provided the club with an opportunity to bolster their squad and they brought Lucas Perri in from Lyon to start between the sticks.
This meant that Meslier started the current season as the third-choice goalkeeper at Elland Road. Although he is currently on the bench behind Darlow, whilst Perri is injured.
The 25-year-old is in no man’s land in West Yorkshire because Farke has clearly decided, by the signing of Perri and his use of Darlow, that the Frenchman is not a part of his plans moving forward.
That is why Meslier, who has already rinsed the club for £12m during his time at Elland Road to date, is on borrowed time at Leeds and should be moved on during the January transfer window.
Farke struck gold on Leeds star who came from "the school of Haaland"
Leeds United hit the jackpot on this star who Phil Hay compared to Erling Haaland.
O atacante Endrick, do Palmeiras, foi um dos principais destaques do time no empate por 0 a 0 com o Deportivo Pereira, resultado que garantiu vaga ao alviverde na fase de semifinal da Libertadores, na quarta-feira (30). Aos 17 minutos do segundo tempo, o centroavante entrou no lugar de Rony e protagonizou bons momentos no jogo. Depois da partida, porém, ele revelou que não está feliz com a falta de oportunidades, apesar de sua eficiência nos números.
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+ Veja tabela e classificação do Brasileirão-2023 clicando aqui
Em dois lances na partida, Endrick conseguiu provocar a expulsão do zagueiro Juan Quintero. Ele também quase balançou as redes em duas oportunidades. Na primeira, finalizou dentro da área com a perna direita, levando perigo. A segunda chance, de perna esquerda, parou no goleiro Quintana, que impediu o gol.
+ Copo Stanley a partir de R$120,00. Bebida gelada nos 90′ de jogo do Verdão!
– Eu fico um pouco triste por não estar jogando, mas tenho que segurar um pouco isso. Tive uma conversa com o Abel e ele me tranquilizou. Não fico na azia, como ele fala, de jogar ou não. Ele fala que o importante é trabalhar – disse o garoto em entrevista para a ESPN na saída de campo.
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Apesar de ter atuado apenas 150 minutos nos últimos 10 jogos, Endrick é o quinto jogador do elenco que mais marcou nesta temporada. Ao todo, são sete gols, ficando atrás apenas de Raphael Veiga, artilheiro do time, Rony, Artur e Gabriel Menino.
+ Murilo celebra marca defensiva inédita do Palmeiras de Abel Ferreira
No atual plantel de Abel Ferreira, o centroavante é o terceiro atleta, empatado com Artur, que precisa de menos minutos para fazer um gol.
Com a grave contusão de Dudu, que rompeu o ligamento cruzado anterior do joelho direito e lesionou o menisco, a tendência é que Endrick ganhe mais minutos na equipe principal. Logo na primeira oportunidade, após a lesão do camisa 7, o centroavante mostrou que pode ser uma das soluções para o ataque palmeirense. No entanto, essa alternativa não deverá ser no lugar de Rony.
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– Muito difícil o Rony sair, seja Endrick ou López, que precisam de sequência, a pergunta que eu faço é o que é melhor para o Palmeiras, é o que eu recorro quando eu tenho dúvidas. Eu sei o que é melhor para eles (sequência), mas muitas vezes não é o melhor para a equipe. Eu não treino um jogador, eu treino uma equipe – declarou Abel Ferreira após a partida.
Leeds United desperately needed additions during the summer transfer window if they were to have any chance of securing survival in the Premier League throughout 2025/26.
The hierarchy have already backed manager Daniel Farke during the off-season, making nine additions to the first-team squad, spending nearly £100m in the process.
Noah Okafor is the latest player to make the move to Elland Road this summer, arriving in Yorkshire from Italian giants AC Milan, costing a fee in the region of £18m.
Despite the big money being splashed already this window, further additions are also being lined up ahead of the September 1st deadline to further bolster the chances of top-flight survival.
Experience in such a division will be vital to avoiding an immediate return to the second-tier, leading to multiple players currently plying trade in the Premier League being touted with moves.
Leeds targeting numerous Premier League talents this summer
Former loanee Manor Solomon has been on Leeds’ radar constantly this summer, understandably so given his record of 23 goal contributions for the Whites in the promotion-winning campaign.
He could be allowed to depart Tottenham Hotspur this window, opening the door for the 26-year-old to return to Elland Road on a permanent basis before the September 1st deadline.
However, he’s not the only player in England’s top-flight to appear in their sights, with Farke’s men considering a move for Bournemouth star James Hill, according to Sky Sports’ Mark McAdam.
He claimed that the Whites have been tracking a deal for the 23-year-old in recent weeks, potentially making a move for his signature in the coming days.
AFC Bournemouth's James Hill and AFC Bournemouth's MilosKerkezcelebrate after the match
It’s also been confirmed that the defender only has one year left on his deal at the Vitality, which could see the Cherries cash in on him to avoid losing him for nothing in 12 months time.
Why Leeds’ latest target would be a repeat of Longstaff
During the current window, Leeds completed a deal to sign Newcastle United midfielder Sean Longstaff, handing needed Premier League experience to the middle of the park.
The Englishman joined the Whites on a four-year deal from the Magpies, costing a fee in the region of £15m – after making 214 appearances for Eddie Howe’s men.
He was utilised off the bench during the opening day win over Everton on Monday night, with his arrival undoubtedly bolstering the squad at Farke’s disposal.
Newcastle midfielder Sean Longstaff
Whilst he didn’t start the win, the 27-year-old will have a huge role to play throughout 2025/26, potentially seeing the hierarchy land a bargain deal if he can replicate his form from 2023/24, which saw him score eight times.
However, the Whites could be about to replicate a move for Longstaff should they pursue a move for Hill, with the Bournemouth ace also able to offer an excellent squad option to the current first-team squad.
The Englishman made 14 appearances for the Cherries in all competitions last season – mainly being the backup for Dean Huijsen and Illia Zabarnyi – who both left for a combined £107m this summer.
Despite his lack of minutes in the Premier League, he managed to produce some impressive numbers, many of which would make him a superb addition to Farke’s outfit.
Games played
10
Minutes played
448
Pass accuracy
72%
Chances created
0.6
Dribbles completed
50%
Tackles won
1.6
Duels won
7.1
Aerials won
3.1
Interceptions made
1.8
Hill, who’s been dubbed “outstanding” by one podcast host, achieved a 50% dribble success rate and completed 72% of the passes he attempted – handing the side another option should they want to play out from the back.
The youngster also ranked in the 97th percentile for aerial duels won (3.1) and the 95th percentile for ground duels won (7.1) – offering a dominant presence at the heart of the backline.
His impressive numbers didn’t end there, making 1.8 interceptions per 90 and 1.6 tackles per 90, highlighting his talented ability to regain possession for his side.
It’s unclear how much a deal for the Englishman would cost the Whites this summer, but it’s clear from the stats produced that he would improve the options at Farke’s disposal.
Such a move would replicate a move for Longstaff, potentially being another shrewd addition in the club’s hunt to maintain their Premier League status beyond the 2025/26 campaign.
Their new Raphinha: Leeds could hijack late move to sign £32m "magician"
Leroy Sane’s surprise move to Galatasaray has drawn heavy criticism from Bayern Munich legend Oliver Kahn, who claimed the winger “doesn’t want to be a top player” despite having all the qualities to dominate at the highest level. The German international left Bayern this summer after five years, turning down a contract extension in favour of a new challenge in Turkey.
Sane’s Galatasaray switch questioned by Bayern great
Sane opted to leave the Bavarians at the end of his contract negotiations, ending a five-year spell in which he scored 61 goals and provided 55 assists in over 220 appearances. Despite interest from other European clubs, he rejected several offers to join Galatasaray, citing the atmosphere at Rams Park as decisive. His choice, however, has not gone down well with the former Bayern figure.
AdvertisementImago ImagesKahn: Sane has everything, absolutely everything
Speaking to , the former Bayern goalkeeper expressed disbelief at the winger's decision, insisting he has all the natural gifts to be an elite player.
"When you see him, what qualities he has – in training, on the pitch, his speed, his style of football, his dribbling, even his finishing when he's focused: The boy has everything, absolutely everything, you need to become a truly top player," said Kahn
The German stressed that the biggest question around Sane isn’t his ability, but his mentality and desire to consistently reach the very top.
"If he doesn't want that, then it's his decision, then his career will just follow a little differently, and now he has to make sure he finds his place at Galatasaray. If I don't come today, I'll come tomorrow – that's just his character, often with his entire body language."
Bayern forced into transfer reshuffle
The 29-year-old's exit left Die Roten short of experience out wide, prompting the German giants to splash €75 million (£65m/$87m) on Liverpool’s Luis Diaz. While Galatasaray have enjoyed a flawless start to the Super Lig, winning all seven games, Sane himself has struggled to settle. With just one goal and three assists in eight starts across competitions, his output has fallen short of expectations.
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Getty ImagesNext steps for Sane in Istanbul
Sane remained on the bench during Galatasaray’s Champions League victory over Liverpool. However, with a crucial clash against Besiktas up next, the German international will be eager to break into the starting XI and prove that his move to Turkey was not a step down from European football’s elite stage.
Everton’s need for reinforcements at right-back has become a top priority for David Moyes as the start of the new Premier League season looms.
Following the departure of Ashley Young, the position remains one of uncertainty.
Nathan Patterson has featured consistently in pre-season but has yet to convince as a long-term solution.
Meanwhile, 36-year-old Seamus Coleman, though an influential presence in the dressing room, is no longer expected to start regularly.
The club had pushed hard to sign Kenny Tete from Fulham, but their advances were rebuffed when the Dutchman signed a new contract at Craven Cottage.
With the window moving into its decisive phase, Everton – who are also pushing ahead with their bid to sign Southampton’s Tyler Dibling – are now casting a wide net.
Among the options is a player whose career arc and profile make him a particularly intriguing fit for Everton’s evolving blueprint.
A versatile operator with Premier League experience, European pedigree, and the kind of adaptability that Moyes has historically favoured.
Everton's search for a right-back
Moves are now being made, amid Moyes’ cry for more additions, with a £35m bid having been lodged for young Dibling, while the Toffees are also closing in on a deal for Chelsea’s Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. As per Romano, the former Leicester City playmaker is set to sign for a fee of around £25m, plus add-ons.
As for their right-back search, Ainsley Maitland-Niles may not be the headline-grabbing name Everton fans were expecting this summer, but he could prove to be one of the most effective.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The 27-year-old former Arsenal man is currently with Lyon, where he quietly enjoyed a strong 2024/25 season.
He featured 32 times in Ligue 1, scoring once and registering four assists, while also appearing 11 times in the Europa League and contributing a further three assists.
Now, with several Premier League and European clubs interested, TEAMtalk revealed that Everton are among those assessing his potential return to England.
Maitland-Niles’ ability to play at right-back, central midfield and right midfield makes him a valuable asset in any squad.
Mikel Arteta once described him as having “a huge talent” due to such versatility, a quality Everton currently lack in key areas.
From a financial perspective, the deal makes sense. Maitland-Niles’ market value sits at around €12m (£10m), a relatively modest figure in today’s market.
At a time when the Toffees are navigating tricky financial waters, the prospect of bringing in a seasoned, multifunctional player without breaking the bank would be a significant win.
Perhaps most compelling, though, is how Maitland-Niles mirrors the path of one of Everton’s success stories from recent windows: Jake O’Brien.
Why Maitland-Niles could be the next Jake O’Brien
O’Brien’s rise at Everton is a blueprint worth examining.
Signed from Lyon in a £16.4m deal last year, Everton’s most expensive signing of the summer, the Irishman struggled initially.
Jake O'Brien
He failed to start a single game under Sean Dyche, and many feared he was another big-money misstep. But under David Moyes, O’Brien has flourished.
Now a regular in the back line, the 24-year-old has shown composure, athleticism, and maturity well beyond his years.
He even chipped in with two Premier League goals last season.
Speaking on his difficult start, O’Brien said: “It was disappointing. It wasn’t what I was expecting, but I still trained really hard every day and knew once I got my chance, I’d grab it.”
Maitland-Niles could offer a similar redemption arc. Statistically, he already ticks plenty of boxes.
According to FBref, he ranks in the 93rd percentile for tackles per 90 (3.09) and the 80th percentile for blocks per 90 (1.41), figures that would suit a Moyes team that prioritises defensive grit.
His pass completion rate of 86.3% (86th percentile) and progressive passes per 90 (4.52) (74th percentile) indicate composure on the ball and the ability to progress play in tight spaces, vital for a full-back expected to contribute both defensively and in buildup phases.
He also averages nearly one successful take-on per 90 (0.95), showing that he can beat a man when required.
Like O’Brien, Maitland-Niles comes with a Ligue 1 education and the hunger to prove himself in the Premier League once more.
His time at Arsenal, where he made 132 appearances over nine years, demonstrates not just pedigree, but also resilience. He knows the demands of top-flight English football and has shown he can compete in a range of roles.
Crucially, Maitland-Niles also aligns well with players Everton admire across Europe.
His statistical profile mirrors that of Rayan Aït-Nouri and Ian Maatsen, players known for their versatility, athleticism, and tidy technical skill.
With Maitland-Niles still just 27, Everton would be investing in a player entering his prime years.
Whether used as cover for Patterson, a starter in his own right, or even in midfield, he brings balance, intelligence, and experience to a side that desperately needs those traits.
Given the club’s well-documented recruitment missteps in years gone by, a move for Maitland-Niles would represent a pragmatic, potentially high-upside piece of business, especially if he can replicate the impact of O’Brien on the pitch.
Rogério Ceni deixou o cargo de treinador do São Paulo na última quarta-feira (19). A saída foi anunciada pelo Tricolor, após uma reunião entre membros da diretoria e o ex-goleiro tricolor. Ceni chegou ao clube em outubro de 2021, no mesmo dia que a demissão de Hernán Crespo foi anunciada.
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Desde então, foram 107 jogos, com50 vitórias, 28 empates e 29 derrotas. O último jogo comandado por Ceni foi a vitória contra o Puerto Cabello, por 2 a 0, válida pela segunda rodada da fase de grupos da Copa Sul-Americana.
ATUAÇÕES: Em noite ruim, Marcos Paulo salva, e Calleri mostra que faz diferença em vitória do São Paulo
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Esta foi a segunda passagem de Ceni como treinador do Tricolor. A primeira tinha acontecido em 2017, mas o comandante deixou o cargo após 37 jogos. Entretanto, mais uma vez, deixa o CT da Barra Funda sem nenhum título – diferente da era tão vitoriosa e de idolatria que teve como jogador.
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A passagem do ex-goleiro como técnico foi marcada pelos ‘vices’. Mesmo que tenha enfatizado que sua maior meta era ser campeão, não conseguiu concretizar. Em 2022, chegou até a final do Campeonato Paulista, contra o Palmeiras, mas foi derrotado. Inclusive, este foi visto como um dos grandes vexames da temporada passada. Isso porque o Tricolor estava com uma vantagem por 3 a 1 no jogo de ida, e a equipe de Abel Ferreira virou o resultado após uma goleada por 4 a 0.
Na Copa Sul-Americana, no mesmo ano, viajou até Córdoba, na Argentina, para enfrentar o Independiente Del Valle. Mais uma vez, perdeu a chance de garantir o título – mesmo com o Tricolor sendo visto como um dos grandes favoritos.
No Brasileirão, não ficou próximo da taça, mas próximo da classificação para a Copa Libertadores. Porém, por uma posição não conseguiu. Na Copa do Brasil, encerrou sua participação na semifinal, após ser derrotado pelo Flamengo.
Neste ano, a situação complicou um pouco mais. Com a expectativa de, pela terceira edição seguida, chegar até a final do Campeonato Paulista, o sonho foi frustrado de forma precoce ainda nas quartas de final, após uma derrota contra o Água Santa – que mais tarde se tornou finalista, contra o Palmeiras. E foi a partir daí que a situação começou a esquentar.
A pressão existia, mas a ideia é que Ceni conseguisse ajustar as rédeas do clube durante a intertemporada, antes de retornar para os próximos compromissos que aguardavam. Porém, mesmo com a estreia vitoriosa na Copa Sul-Americana, contra o Tigre, emplacou uma sequência não tão boa na Copa do Brasil – no empate sem gols contra o Ituano em casa -, e no Brasileiro – com a derrota pelo Botafogo por 2 a 1.
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Problemas com elenco?
Mas não foram somente os resultados que marcaram a trajetória de Rogério Ceni pelo São Paulo. Alguns problemas internos também surgiram neste caminho – que envolveram até mesmo discussão com alguns jogadores.
No final da temporada 2022, Patrick – atualmente no Atlético-MG -, teria se incomodado com certas atitudes do ex-técnico. Mais especificamente, na penúltima rodada do Campeonato Brasileiro.Mesmo enquanto o São Paulo ainda vencia por 1 a 0, Patrick foi substituído na volta do segundo tempo, dando lugar a Giuliano Galoppo. Na etapa final, em menos de quinze minutos, o Tricolor sofreu três gols, marcados por Germán Cano.
O incômodo do ex-atleta do Tricolor teria sido motivado pelas substituições frequentes que estava enfrentando. A discussão aconteceu no vestiário, após o término da partida. Mesmo com a saída do meia, os dois sempre enfatizaram que era um assunto que tinha sido resolvido.
Recentemente, algo parecido aconteceu com Marcos Paulo. A discussão aconteceu no último mês, após a eliminação da equipe no Campeonato Paulista contra o Água Santa, quando jogador fez uma postagem suspeita nas redes sociais.
Marcos Paulo compartilhou uma foto em seu Instagram com a letra de uma música que dizia uma frase emblemática sobre ‘hipocrisia e simpatia serem uma junção venenosa’. Até então, parecia só mais uma postagem normal, mas o que chamou atenção foram algumas curtidas do jogador em comentários de torcedores. Estes comentários criticando justamente Rogério Ceni.
O restante do elenco teria se incomodado com a reação de Rogério Ceni com o caso, o que começou a esquentar a discussão. Após o último jogo do treinador com a equipe, contra o Puerto Cabello, Ceni trouxe este assunto à tona, e mais uma vez, afirmou que estava tudo resolvido.
Mesmo assim, tirando estas exceções, o elenco sempre pareceu se dar bem com o ex-técnico. Inclusive, nas redes sociais, nomes como Calleri, Nestor, Moreira, se manifestaram pouco tempo após o anúncio da sua saída, se despedindo e agradecendo ao trabalho prestado.
Durante quase um ano e oito meses, 23 jogadores chegaram ao Tricolor sob o comando de Rogério Ceni. Agora, ao que tudo indica, os próximos passos do clube devem seguir o mesmo caminho de 2017. Isso porque o principal nome no radar é o mesmo que sucedeu Ceni na primeira passagem: Dorival Júnior.
Celtic have made a habit out of buying and developing and selling on young talent over the years, as they have made millions in profit through player trading.
The likes of Matt O’Riley, Odsonne Edouard, Moussa Dembele, and Virgil van Dijk, among many others, have come and gone thanks to the club’s excellent recruitment work.
Whilst they have had success in plucking players out of top European countries, like van Dijk from the Netherlands or Dembele and O’Riley from England, they have also had success in snapping up talent from more obscure leagues.
For example, Celtic signed Kristoffer Ajer as a 17-year-old for £650k from Norwegian side Start, before they went on to sell him to Brentford for a reported fee of £13.5m.
The Hoops plucked the teenage talent up and sent him out on loan, to Kilmarnock, before integrating him into the first-team to develop into a £13.5m player, and they could repeat a similar trick with their interest in a midfielder this summer.
Celtic enquire about deal for Serbian midfielder
According to Cukaricki sporting director Vladimir Matijašević, Celtic have made contact over a potential deal to sign central midfielder Andrej Bacanin before the end of the summer transfer window.
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Speaking to the club’s official website, he said: “There’s significant interest in our young players, and right now the spotlight is on Andrej Bačanin’s transfer. His performances last season for both our team and the Serbian national side at youth level have drawn attention from numerous clubs.
“We’ve had enquiries from Scottish giants Celtic and Rangers, and clubs like Ajax and Udinese are also interested, among others. It’s possible more options will emerge, but I expect the transfer to be completed within the next ten days.”
This shows that the Hoops are interested in the 18-year-old talent, who could arrive at Parkhead to follow a similar path to success in Scotland as Ajer.
Why Celtic should sign Andrej Bacanin
The Scottish Premiership giants should push to win the race for the teenage starlet’s signature this summer because he could be a future star for the club.
At the age of 18, Bacanin should not be expected to arrive as an immediate first-team star, as he only just made his breakthrough at senior level in Serbia in the second half of the 2024/25 campaign.
Celtic managerBrendanRodgerscelebrates after winning the League Cup
Instead, the Serbia U19 international could follow Ajer’s path by joining another Premiership team, or a club in another country, on loan to continue his development, before making the step to Brendan Rodgers’ team further down the line.
Although he may not be ready to make an instant impact in Glasgow for Celtic, his performances in the Serbian Superliga show that he does have potential.
24/25 Superliga
Andrej Bacanin
Appearances
17
Starts
10
Goals
1
Assists
2
Tackles per 90
2.3
Interceptions per 90
1.8
Error led to goal
0
Penalties committed
0
Stats via Sofascore
As you can see in the table above, Bacanin offered a screening presence in front of the back four when he played, averaging 4.1 tackles and interceptions per 90 in the division.
Meanwhile, no central midfielder for Celtic managed more than 2.0 tackles and interceptions per game, which suggests that the Serbian youngster could offer a defensive midfield option that Rodgers does not currently have.
Former Celtic defender Kristoffer Ajer.
As was the case with Ajer, though, Bacanin will need to be playing games week-in-week-out to hone his skills and develop as a player, which is why bringing the young whiz in before sending him out on loan could be a shrewd move.
The Hoops could snap him up this summer, to ensure that their rivals do not steal a march of them, before sending him away to develop and improve, with the hope that he will come back a better player who is ready to make his mark on Parkhead in the 2026/27 campaign.
He'll send Idah to the bench: Celtic lining up swoop for £7m "goal machine"
Celtic are eyeing up a deal for a striker who would send Adam Idah to the bench.
By
Dan Emery
Jul 18, 2025
Serbian Football Scout, who is a professional scout for MLS side Colorado Rapids, previously dubbed Bacanin a “true midfield controller”, and he could control games for Celtic in the future, if they get this deal done.