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Graham Potter's first game at Chelsea finished with a similar sour taste as the end of Thomas Tuchel's tenure, with the Blues drawing vs RB Salzburg.

Graham Potter brought new ideas to Wednesday night's Champions League clash against RB Salzburg, but the 1-1 home result felt just as disappointing as the ones Thomas Tuchel oversaw on his way out the door of Stamford Bridge.

Potter began his tenure by optimising the play of Raheem Sterling, who was dangerous throughout when bursting forwards and surprisingly adept tracking back like a quasi-wing-back. Sterling's performance level will be key to the manager's success, and early signs are positive. The England international scored the opener, Blues fans roaring with approval when he nestled in a curling shot minutes after the half-time interval.

But longstanding problems also cropped up as Chelsea lacked a clinical edge in front of goal and, crucially, endured a defensive lapse in concentration that cost them three points as Noah Okafor equalised late.

Chelsea are still waiting for their first Champions League win this season. They haven't yet faced AC Milan, their chief rival in the group. It's probably too early to be worried about their chances of advancing to the knockout rounds, but Potter needs to lead improvement soon.

Getty ImagesThe Winners

Raheem Sterling:

The England international channelled his inner Leandro Trossard and looked seriously exciting for it. That's a comparison we never thought we'd make, but here we are.

Starting out wide – almost as a left wing-back at times – and then bursting inside, Sterling did well in responding to Potter's tactical influence and it hurt Salzburg when Chelsea fed him the ball. Be it arriving late into the box, taking the ball wide and crossing, or driving inside and creating panic, he was Chelsea's main threat.

Of course, this will take time and Sterling must trust in the manager's tactics. But the early signs were promising. His goal embodied everything that Potter's Chelsea were tying to do on the night with the overload at the back post, the deep cross and the late run. It was a lovely finish, too.

Encouraging stuff.

Kepa Arrizabalaga:

He was handed a rare opportunity to impress in a crucial game, and made a solid account of himself in the absence of Edouard Mendy.

Kepa's time at Chelsea has had it all. From a world record fee to public spats on the pitch, it's been disappointing to see him slump into a backup role, because he's better than that. And he showed it tonight with a cool, composed performance. Solid on the ball, confident hands, a positive starting position and good for a save when needed.

There's still a long way to go and he has plenty to do in order to dislodge Mendy to reclaim the No. 1 spot, but tonight certainly didn't hurt.

Mason Mount:

At a glance, Mount's performance wasn't anything to write home about. But it was an assured one, and one which saw him grow in confidence as the game progressed.

Mount impressed in ebbs and flows, showing glimpses of what he does best when he's on form. Sharp touches in tight spaces, neat link-up play with his team-mates and intelligent movements. Not everything he tried came off, and he wasn't tremendously busy, but the signs were positive.

Perhaps a touch fortunate to notch an assist at the expense of poor defending, the key takeaway is Mount being receptive to the tactical instructions.

Linked up well with James, moved intelligently and played the ball to the overload at the back post. Job done.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesThe Losers

Marc Cucurella:

All eyes were on Cucurella ahead of kick-off, with him essentially being Potter's top student by default.

The Spanish full-back left Brighton to sign for Chelsea in the summer after a stellar season thanks to Potter's help and was tipped to prove crucial tonight in the manager's first game in charge.

While his performance wasn't a bad one, it left a lot to be desired. Cucurella played as a left centre-back to allow Sterling to stretch the game, meaning he was restricted in his abilities to attack – a part of the game he excels at.

Credit to him for showing versatility, but he could have been better. Still, we trust Potter will find a way to get him forward in future.
Cesar Azpilicueta:
On a night where he wasn't called into action all too often, you'd expect someone of Azpilicueta's calibre to stay switched on when things got tough.

That didn't happen. Sure, Salzburg's goal was a combination of mistakes and Cucurella was arguably most at fault, but seeing Azpilicueta caught ball watching and flat-footed is rather concerning.

If you can't rely on him there, where can you rely on him?

Benjamin Sesko:

Welcome to the big leagues, kid.

A tough night at the office for the highly regarded 19-year-old who had to try and fashion chances while up against three central defenders. The service wasn't particularly great and when it was there, Sesko struggled to break beyond Chelsea's defence.

Experience won this time.

Getty ImagesChelsea Ratings: Defence

Kepa Arrizabalaga (7/10):

Salzburg didn't trouble Chelsea's stopper enough, in truth, but he made a solid low save to deny Benjamin Sesko in the first half. Could do very little to save the equaliser.

Marc Cucurella (5/10):

Cucurella was deployed as a central defender tonight so that Sterling could stretch the play. It meant he wasn't his usual, expressive self. It was that desire to attack which was his and Chelsea's undoing, getting caught out of position and leaving his defence compromised.

Thiago Silva (6/10):

Not too much to do for the veteran but was always keen to receive a pass and did well to evade the press. Wasn't at fault for Salzburg's equaliser, but did go out to make the tackle which didn't pay off. The ball had to go out of play and it didn't.

Cesar Azpilicueta (6/10):

A similar story for Azpilicueta, who was protected well by more youthful counterparts in the side but was caught flat-footed when trying to stop Salzburg from scoring. You'd count on someone as experienced as him not to switch off there.

Reece James (7/10):

Not everything came off, but you can already see how James could well flourish during the new era at Chelsea. Endlessly comfortable in possession when bringing the ball forward, but also completed his defensive duties.

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Getty ImagesMidfield

Mason Mount (7/10):

Some sharp touches and had a brilliant chance to fire Chelsea ahead after 40 minutes, when a crossed ball fell kindly to him on the edge of the box. Despite being unmarked, Mount fired wide. Improved as the game went on, though, and grabbed the assist for Chelsea's goal.

Mateo Kovacic (6/10):

Not bad. Kovacic's press resistance will be key moving forward and if he can stay fit, it wouldn't be a surprise to see him become a key player under the new manager.

Jorginho (7/10):

A very textbook Jorginho performance, which is him at his best. Not perfect, but much improved. Kept things ticking over in possession during the build-up play and began to find his range with more adventurous, long passes as the game grew on.

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Everything you need to take your game to the next level in 2023

If you’re anything like us, you make a similar resolution every January: play more football. Whether you’re a seasoned player who just wants to add another weekly game or you’re new to the sport and keen to start playing regularly, now is the time to do it. To help you get equipped for a new year filled with five-a-side matches, a return to Sunday League or just more regular kickabouts with your mates, we’ve pulled together all of your essential items.

1. New boots

Nike Phantom GTIINike / GOAL£72.95-£234.95 at Nike

As the well-known saying goes, new year, new boots. As well as being arguably the most important part of your kitbag, boots are also the most fun part to buy. 2022 saw some great new releases, with the Nike Phantom GTII line arguably the best to arrive. Whether you’re looking for firm ground or soft ground, elite level or entry-level, the Phantom GTII has a version for you. The boot has proven such a hit that it's worn by a whole host of the world’s best, with the Glacier Ice, Yellow Strike and Sunset Glow colourway proving to be particularly popular.

Advertisement2. The ball

Al Rihla footballadidas / GOAL£15.00-£130.00 at adidas

There’s every chance your new teammates will have a full selection of match balls ready to go, but it’s also equally likely that it’ll be easily forgotten each week, so it’s worth having your own. Now feels like the perfect time to go for adidas’ Al-Rihla design, best known as being the official match ball at the Qatar World Cup. You can relive the Messi vs Mbappe final for yourself.

3. A new kit bag

Le Coq Sportif bagLe Coq Sportif / GOAL€35.00-€39.00 at Le Coq Sportif

Brands like Nike and adidas all have a number of good and practical kit bags, but you might as well take this opportunity to indulge your inner mid-90s continental player. Le Coq Sportif has the ideal solution, complete with the brand’s iconic logo against the French flag. Altogether it makes the bag look equally good whether you’re reporting for duty at Clairefontaine or packing away your muddy boots on a Sunday morning.

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4. The best shirt

Venezia FC 2022-23 kitVenezia FC / GOAL€90.00-€110.00 at Venezia FC

It doesn’t matter if you’re a newcomer to the game or a veteran of the five-a-side scene, you want to be the best dressed. Ultimately, that comes down to the shirt you wear on the pitch. The World Cup had some of the best on offer, but if you want to scratch deeper than that then the best place to start might be with the best-dressed club in European football, Venezia FC. Another strong effort would be either of Red Star Paris’ Lack of Guidance-designed kits for the 2022-23 season.

The France forward is once again being linked with a move to the Bernabeu but there's now a transfer fee to consider, on top of his huge salary…

According to , Kylian Mbappe regretted his decision to sign a new Paris Saint-Germain contract immediately.

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Two months after lifting up a PSG kit with '2025' emblazoned on the back, standing in front of nearly 50,000 adoring fans, Mbappe was allegedly on the phone to Real Madrid, asking if the club could sign him.

claims that Madrid were noncommittal, which would make sense in the circumstances. Los Blancos had, after all, only recently been rejected by the French star, who seemed so certain to don their famous white all-white kit just six months previously.

Instead, Madrid reportedly told Mbappe to wait, and stressed that any deal for the player would come with a series of conditions – including their insistence to not enter a bidding war.

If all of this is true, it would represent an ominous sign for Mbappe, especially given Madrid have some of the deepest pockets in Europe.

It all points towards a player in purgatory in Paris, left running down his contract while he waits for Madrid to swoop.

But can Florentino Perez really afford to sign Mbappe this summer? And if they can't, who could?…

The player

This whole thing is deeper than a price tag. PSG will want a lot of money, and a few teams might consider paying it. But the real issue for Madrid is the wages.

Mbappe is under contract until 2024 and has the option to extend his deal for a further year.

Right now, he makes roughly €1.5 million (£1.3m/$1.6m) every week. That is more than Lionel Messi and Neymar, and nearly three times as much as the highest earner outside of PSG's 'big three', Sergio Ramos.

The France star will pull in €72m(£63m/$77m) in salary alone this year, and still has €216m (£190m/$231m) remaining in his contract if he stays until 2025. A €70m($75m/£60m) loyalty bonus also pops into his bank account for every year he stays.

Madrid, try as they might, simply cannot pay him that much.

Currently, Los Blancos' highest-paid player is Eden Hazard (remember him?) The Belgian is paid roughly €600,000(£528,000/$644,000) per week and, by the end of this year, will have pulled in under half of Mbappe's yearly payout.

Last summer, Madrid refused to shatter their financial model for the French star. Although Real offered Mbappe total control of his image rights, they were only willing to pay Mbappe a salary of €23m (£20m/$25m.) Of course, different tax laws complicate things.

But PSG blew Madrid's weekly offer out of the water, according to

So, Madrid can't offer more favourable financial terms than PSG, which means Mbappe will have to make sacrifices.

But he will undoubtedly make certain demands. He will definitely want to be Madrid's biggest earner. He will also probably want control of his image rights – something PSG never allowed.

Mbappe is arguably the best player in the world, and his value as a commodity – as well as a footballer – means that Madrid will have to offer him the kind of financial package that might well be beyond them right now.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesThe club

In simpler terms, Madrid will have to pay more than their pledge last summer to bring Mbappe to the club. The good news is, they can probably afford to stretch things slightly.

Madrid have been rather financially prudent in recent years, letting players come and go while dealing with the €700m (£614m/$751m) burden of renovating the Santiago Bernabeu.

Sergio Ramos and Casemiro were allowed to leave, while a number of players saw new contracts put on hold. Conveniently, and very much by design, Madrid have seven players out of contract on June 30. Among them are three of the club's top five earners: Toni Kroos, Karim Benzema and Luka Modric.

And this is where it gets complicated.

According to the latest La Liga estimates, Real Madrid are allowed to spend a maximum of €683m per year on their payroll. Last season, they used around €336m. There is, then, more than enough room for Mbappe in the budget.

And if Modric, Benzema and Kroos were all to leave, it gets even easier.

But Benzema and Modric are almost certain to stay, while the latest reports suggest Kroos is likely to.

So, is it really worth letting three of your best players walk in order to bring in one talent? It simply wouldn't make sense. Real Madrid, contrary to popular belief, will not be playing Football Manager.

There is also the Jude Bellingham issue. If Real Madrid are to sign the English international — which they are reportedly interested in doing — it will cost them up to €150m. He will also command large wages.

Los Blancos can afford Bellingham, who seems reasonably priced relative to Mbappe. But, as it stands, there's no way they can take on both while at the same time retaining their old guard.

The cost

So, the exact question changes. Madrid can, logically, afford Mbappe. But will they opt to him this summer? Does it actually make sense?

According to the , PSG want €300-350 million (£263-£306m/$321m-$426m) for their star, who doesn't have a release clause. That number would smash the world transfer record by some distance. They will likely have to bring their valuation down, given that Mbappe can leave on a free next summer. But they won't cave too much.

Still, reported that Real Madrid will not enter a bidding war for the player, nor will they negotiate on any massive numbers. It leaves the situation at something of an impasse, then.

Madrid have never shut the door on an Mbappe deal, but it would have to happen on their own terms. PSG, quite simply, will not allow that.

Everything is made further complicated by a potential payment structure. Even if Madrid were to cave to PSG's potential lofty demands, there is little chance that they have the funds or intention of paying a massive sum upfront.

Instead, they will emulate the strategy Chelsea recently employed of spreading contracts over longer periods of time in order to ease the burden of the massive financial commitment.

That will require lengthy negotiations, something Madrid are adamant they won't get into.

Add to that the open wound of Mbappe spurning Madrid's interest last summer, and an outright buy looks unlikely.

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GettyWho else?

But if Mbappe is put up for sale, there will undoubtedly be some competition.

Los Blancos will face threats from across Europe, especially in the Premier League.

Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea and Newcastle could all make competitive offers, given their massive spending power and immense revenue from the Premier League's TV rights deals. All four are able to expand their wage budgets to meet Mbappe's lofty demands, too.

Man Utd could be particularly dangerous if Qatari Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani completes a takeover. He would make the Red Devils one of England's richest clubs and has already promised to wipe the club of its debts.

A marquee signing would be the cherry on top.

How to watch vs Luton Town vs Middlesbrough in the Championship on TV and online in the United States.

Luton Town will take on fellow play-off competitors Middlesbrough in a highly anticipated Championshipgame at the Kenilworth Road on Monday.

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📺 Watch Luton Town vs Middlesbrough live on ESPN+in the US

Luton are unbeaten in their last 11 league matches and will treat the fixture as an important game as they prepare for the playoffs next month. The hosts confirmed their ticket to the playoffs with a draw against Reading in their previous outing.

The visitors were struggling at the start of the season but have enjoyed a brilliant turnaround since Michael Carrick took charge as head coach. They are only a point behind Luton Town in the standings and will be confident of getting a good result at the start of the week,

GOAL brings you everything you need to know about how to watch the Championship fixture between Luton Town and Middlesbrough, plus team news, recent form and more.

GettyKick-off time

Date:

April 24, 2023

Kick-off time:

3pm EDT

Venue:

Kenilworth Road

The game is scheduled for Monday April 24, 2023, at Kenilworth Road. It will kick off at 3pm EDT in the US.

Advertisement(C)Getty ImagesHow to watch Luton Town vs Middlesbrough online – TV channels & live streamsTV channels & streaming options

Country TV channel Live stream

U.SN/AESPN+

In the US, fans can watch the game on ESPN+.

GettyTeam news & squadsMiddlesbrough team news

Carrick has no fresh injury concerns to deal with ahead of his team's trip to face Luton Town in the crucial Championship fixture. Aaron Ramsey is expected to be out for a month, along with Dael Fry and Riley McGree, who are also not expected to feature on Monday.

Carrick brought Isiah Jones on as a half-time sub and he had a brilliant impact on the game. Jones picked up two assists as his team came back from a goal down to win 3-1 against Hull City.

The players who came off the bench could be given a start against Luton but the lineup is not expected to be tinkered with too much.

Middlesbrough predicted XI: Steffen; Smith, McNair, Lenihan, Giles; Howson, Hackney; Jones, Akpom, Forss; Archer

Position Players

Goalkeepers:Steffen, Roberts, DanielsDefenders:Fry, McNair, Lenihan, Giles, Bola, Dijksteel, Smith, FisherMidfielders:Mowatt, Barlaser, Hackney, Howson, McGree, Crooks, JonesForwards:Akpom, Walker, Archer, Muniz, ForssLuton Town team news

Coach Rob Edwards has a fully fit squad available for the last three matches of the regular season.

Following their draw against Reading which confirmed the team's place in the playoffs, the manager may look to give chances to players who have been on the bench in recent fixtures.

Elijah Adebayo was a substitute and set up Carlton Morris' equaliser against Reading and he is a good shout to make the lineup.

Luton predicted XI: Horvath; Lockyer, Bradley, Bell; Drameh, Nakamba, Mpanzu, Doughty; Campbell; Morris, Adebayo

Position Players

Goalkeepers:Shea, Walton, Isted, Macey, HorvathDefenders:Drameh, Potts, Lockyer, Bradley, Burke, Bell, OshoMidfielders:Rea, Berry, Lansbury, Mpanzu, Nakamba, Clark, Pereira, Watson, Campbell, Onyedinma, Thorpe, Freeman, DoughtyForwards:Morris, Woodrow, Adebayo, Mendes Gomes, Muskwe, Pepple, Taylor, McAteeHead-to-head record

Date Result Competition

December 2022Middlesbrough 2-1 LutonChampionshipMarch 2022Middlesbrough 2-1 LutonChampionshipNovember 2021Luton 3-1 MiddlesbroughChampionshipMay 2021Luton 1-1 MiddlesbroughChampionshipDecember 2020Middlesbrough 1-0 LutonChampionship

Luton may have the upper hand in the Championship standings this season but only once have they defeated Middlesbrough in the last five meetings between these two teams.

The last two games were won by Middlesbrough, both by a 2-1 scoreline.

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Getty ImagesUseful links

Middlesbrough team page

Luton team page

Live soccer on TV in the U.S.

It's been an incredible campaign for state-sponsored clubs, but Chelsea did prove that money doesn't always guarantee success…

On Sunday evening, the Premier League season came to a close. It was a wildly unpredictable campaign at times, with Arsenal emerging as a surprise contender to win the title, and yet, in the end, Manchester City finished top of the pile. Again.

Pep Guardiola's magnificent squad of superstars played some beautiful football, creating goal after goal for the unstoppable Erling Haaland, but their third title in a row will have yet another asterisk placed beside it, with the club having been charged with more than 100 alleged breaches of the Premier League's financial regulations.

Elsewhere, Newcastle underlined the growing influence of Middle Eastern money on English football by securing a return to the Champions League, as did Manchester United, who appear to be finally moving in the right direction again thanks to Erik ten Hag.

Somewhat unbelievably, Liverpool went from challenging for a quadruple last year to winning nothing at all, while Chelsea finished in the bottom half despite spending more than £500 million on new signings. But Brighton were arguably the story of the season, with Roberto De Zerbi silencing the skeptics by leading the Seagulls into Europe for the first time in their history.

Sadly, though, another touching tale of over-achievement has come to an end, with Leicester, the club that stunned the football world by winning the title in 2016, being relegated alongside Leeds and Southampton.

GOAL runs through the biggest winners and losers from the 2022-23 Premier League season…

Getty ImagesLOSER: Todd Boehly

Ah, Todd Boehly, not just loser – but biggest loser of the season. Chelsea were a joke, with a gargantuan group of high-profile players providing a pitiful return on the simply staggering amount of money invested in them. Three different coaches failed to get the very best out of them as they ended up finishing 12th and, let's face it, the buck stops with Boehly and the board.

They were responsible for the club's clueless approach to squad-building and the ridiculous decision to sack Thomas Tuchel just six games into the season. Then, after putting their faith in a long-term project with Graham Potter, they made the absolutely absurd decision to replace him with Frank Lampard for the final two months of the campaign, only cementing the perception that the new owners have "no idea about football".

It was pure farce, as probably best summed up by the sorry sight of Thiago Silva lamenting the fact that they had so many players the club had to enlarge the dressing room. Cancelling their end-of-season awards ceremony for fear of upsetting the already furious fans was probably the one correct call the club made this season.

But, in a way, we neutrals should be thankful to Boehly – and not just for all the amusing mishaps and memes, or the utterly compelling tragi-comic nature of their campaign in general. No, in this modern era of gross financial inequality, it was genuinely heartening to see that money doesn't always guarantee success.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesWINNER: State-owned clubs

What a season for the Middle East! First came the World Cup in Qatar, slap bang in the middle of the club campaign, and then Abu Dhabi-backed Manchester City winning another Premier League title, with Saudi Arabia-owned Newcastle finishing fourth to get themselves back into the Champions League for the first time in 20 years. It really is remarkable what oil money can do for a club!

Of course, superstar-obsessed Paris Saint-Germain continue to provide ample proof that a club still needs to be well-run in order to make the absolute most of a limitless supply of cash. But while City and Newcastle may be at different stages of their development, both sets of owners clearly know what they're doing. They have a clear, coherent strategy in place and further success seems inevitable.

Indeed, do not be at all surprised if other clubs now start following their lead. There is, of course, still a very real chance of Qatari investors taking over at Old Trafford in the coming weeks, which really only serves to hammer home the point that football's future is highly likely to be dominated by a select few state-sponsored clubs.

So much for 'The Beautiful Game', eh?…

Getty ImagesLOSER: Arsenal

Arsenal as a loser – it feels harsh, borderline wrong, in truth. Mikel Arteta's exciting young side gave so much in pursuit of an impossible dream and provided Premier League followers with so many magical moments. Reiss Nelson's thunderbolt against Bournemouth, for example, will live long in the memory. It provoked pure bedlam at the Emirates.

However, there is no denying that when Arsenal's manager, players and supporters look back on their 2022-23 campaign, there will be tinges of regret. They didn't bottle the league, of course. They simply succumbed to the inevitable. No team can compete with City over the course of an entire season. They are just too powerful, on and off the field.

Still, while Arsenal were always going to be overhauled in the long run, the way in which they began to flag in the final stretch will remain a source of immense frustration for some time to come. There is no shame in being outclassed by City at the Etihad – a game which starkly illustrated the gulf in class and quality between the two squads.

However, they should have arrived in Manchester with a far bigger lead and left with their fate still in their own hands regardless of the result. Points were thrown away against Liverpool, West Ham and Southampton, with the latter draw effectively signalling the end of their heroic challenge.

Arsenal deserve credit for giving us a title race for such a long time but they'll know themselves that they had a glorious chance to keep the pressure on City right until the final day. The Gunners might well challenge again next season but so, too, should Liverpool, United, Newcastle and maybe even Chelsea under Mauricio Pochettino.

The sad truth is that such an opportunity may never come again for Arsenal, and that knowledge is what will hurt the most.

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Getty ImagesWINNER: Erik ten Hag

Manchester United haven't always convinced this season, particularly away from home against anything resembling decent opposition. There have been some horrific capitulations, most notably against Liverpool and Sevilla. However, United are undeniably making progress under Erik ten Hag.

Indeed, it's worth remembering just how much pressure the manager was under after his reign began with back-to-back Premier League defeats, at home to Brighton and away to Brentford. The latter loss was particularly embarrassing, with Ten Hag being castigated for – among other things – bringing the diminutive Lisandro Martinez with him from Ajax.

However, both the defender and the Dutchman eventually proved their critics wrong. Ten Hag clearly still has a lot of work to do to get United challenging for a title, but he has already shown his ruthless side by effectively forcing Cristiano Ronaldo out of the club, and more deadweight is likely to be dumped overboard this summer.

He also deserves credit for inspiring the most prolific campaign of Marcus Rashford's career to date, addressing United's long overdue need for a dominant defensive midfielder by bringing in Casemiro (arguably the signing of the season) and going out of his way to give Jadon Sancho a shot at reviving his career.

Of course, a manager is ultimately judged on results and, for all of the heavy defeats here and there, he has just ended his first season in England with a trophy and a Champions League place. This is United, of course, so the scrutiny of his position won't stop until he wins a major honour, but Ten Hag's tenure has got off to a good – if topsy-turvy – start.

There were immense performances from all around the continent over the course of the campaign, but who makes GOAL's best XI?

The domestic European season will finally come to a close this weekend, with only the Champions League and Europa Conference League finals to wrap up before all attention can turn to the madness of the summer transfer window.

It's been a truly remarkable season for a number of individuals. Erling Haaland has destroyed record books in multiple competitions. Jude Bellingham has become one of the world's best midfielders as a teenager. Marc-Andre ter Stegen has racked up clean sheets at an unprecedented rate. Meanwhile, the likes of Kieran Trippier and Kim Min-Jae have been unexpected stars for resurgent sides.

But who were the best? And how can they be put in a perfect team? Here's GOAL's European Team of the Season…

Getty ImagesGK: Marc-Andre ter Stegen (Barcelona)

Ter Stegen has enjoyed the luxury of playing behind Europe's best defensive unit this year, but that takes nothing away from his level of performance. The German shot-stopper's save percentage was his best of the last three years, and could yet set a new record for clean sheets in a La Liga season.

There have been some standout individual performances, too. Ter Stegen made crucial saves in Barca's narrow win over Atletico Madrid, while his trio of stops against Athletic Club were also key in a spring push that saw the Blaugrana seal their first league title in four years.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesRB: Kieran Trippier (Newcastle)

Right-back was an admittedly shallow position in Europe this year, but that's not to take anything away from Trippier. The Newcastle full-back is part of the reason why Eddie Howe's side made an unlikely push for Champions League football next year.

The England international was a creative force all season, setting up seven goals while also serving as a constant danger from set-pieces. Trippier's defensive impact is also not to be understated, with the right-back using every bit of his Atletico Madrid experience to add a much-needed toughness to Newcastle's backline.

Getty ImagesCB: Ronald Araujo (Barcelona)

It was going to come together at some point. Araujo is bigger, faster, and more athletic than everyone else. But he's also a supremely intelligent defender, capable of commanding spaces as well as functioning as a ball-winner. And this year, he finally reached the world-class potential that was always there.

Barcelona would not be the same team without him. And the scary thing is, he's still 24, and could spend many more years at the top.

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GettyCB: Kim Min-jae (Napoli)

Undoubtedly one of the bargain signings in Europe this year, Min-Jae has been crucial in Napoli's march to their first Scudetto since 1990. He wasn't an entirely unknown quantity when the eventual league winners brought him in from Fenerbahce, but few knew that 'The Monster' would be this impactful.

Sadly, Napoli could well sell him this summer, with Manchester United linked with a big-money move for the South Korean. Regardless, it's been a fine 12 months in Italy for one of a burgeoning talent.

Lionel Messi recreated one of the most famous images featuring Diego Maradona during his MLS debut for Inter Miami against the New York Red Bulls.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

South American superstar shining in the StatesHas already netted 11 goalsContinues to emulate fellow countryman

WHAT HAPPENED?

Former USMNT star Taylor Twellman has raised that point after watching the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner in action. Messi was only given 30 minutes off the bench against the Red Bulls, but that was still enough time in which to score his 11th goal through nine appearances and spark more mass hysteria regarding his impact in the United States.

AdvertisementTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Messi’s remarkable vision was on show immediately prior to finding the back of the net, as he picked out the most stunning of passes, with the Argentine surrounded by defenders but still able to find a team-mate. Maradona once found himself in a similar situation at the 1986 World Cup, during a meeting with Belgium, and similarities have been drawn between that iconic image and a still from Messi’s latest outing.

AND WHAT'S MORE

Twellman posted on social media after watching another Messi masterclass, with the South American considered to be some form of sporting “alien”.

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WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Messi emulated Maradona when guiding Argentina to global glory at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, as he cemented his standing among the all-time greats, and is keeping himself in contention for an eighth Golden Ball with his exploits in America.

The midfielder found the net in stoppage-time to secure a 1-0 win for Carlo Ancelotti's side after a frustrating evening at Santiago Bernabeu

Joselu's missed chances tally may have reached double digits for Real Madrid against Union Berlin on Tuesday, but Jude Bellingham bailed the striker out with yet another goal to start the Blancos' Champions League campaign in typically dramatic fashion. Carlo Ancelotti's side seemed to be heading for a frustrating stalemate, but Bellingham's 94th-minute goal gave his side a deserved victory.

Madrid were well-defended by Champions League debutants Union in the first half. Still, Joselu had the most obvious goalscoring opportunity, rising to meet Lucas Vazquez's cross at the far post, but he skewed his header wide. Bellingham also came close, but slipped before he could connect with Luka Modric's cut-back.

The hosts offered more in the second half, as Rodrygo hit the post with a flying volley while Joselu saw a close-range effort tipped over the bar. By the closing stages, it had descended into bad luck for the 33-year-old, as a plethora of opportunities were either saved, or trickled wide of the net. Others were culpable, too, including Antonio Rudiger, who missed from five yards out.

Still, Madrid stayed in the contest, and Bellingham latched onto a ricocheted effort from Federico Valverde, turning home with the goal gaping. It was yet another dramatic ending for a team that cannot do without them in Europe.

GOAL rates Real Madrid's players from Santiago Bernabeu…

Getty ImagesGoalkeeper & Defence

Kepa Arrizabalaga (6/10):

Didn't have anything to do. He really shouldn't have to against this team.

Lucas Vazquez (7/10):

Handed a rare start. Offered a lot going forward in the first half, and should've had an assist to his name.

Antonio Rudiger (7/10):

A bit unsteady at the back in the early goings, when Union threatened. Settled after, and probably should have scored.

Nacho (6/10):

Did a job with the armband on. Correctly removed after 70 minutes.

David Alaba (7/10):

Offered cover at left-back, before looking far more comfortable in the middle. A stalwart for this side.

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Aurelien Tchouameni (6/10):

Picked up a silly yellow card, but was otherwise composed at the base of midfield. Could have moved the ball quicker, though.

Luka Modric (8/10):

Now 38 and still bossing the midfield for fun. He comes alive on European nights.

Eduardo Camavinga (6/10):

Probably the least effective of the diamond. Won the ball back, but didn't match the tempo of Modric and Bellingham.

Jude Bellingham (9/10):

A constant danger at the tip of Madrid's midfield. Came close on multiple occasions, before burying an inevitable winner.

Getty ImagesAttack

Rodrygo (7/10):

Was relatively quiet before coming alive in the second half. Unlucky not to score.

Joselu (5/10):

Missed one good chance and one half chance in the opening period. Continued to fail to hit the target after the break. Ended the night with 11 attempts and no goals. Unlucky or ineffective? Perhaps both.

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Federico Valverde (8/10):

An excellent showing after coming on. Direct, powerful, smart in his passing. His shot led to Bellingham's winner.

Toni Kroos (7/10):

Raised the tempo for the home side.

Fran Garcia (6/10):

An injection of pace on the left. His defensive weaknesses did leave Madrid open once or twice.

Brahim Diaz (N/A):

Not enough time to make an impact.

Carlo Ancelotti (7/10):

Rotated heavily ahead of the Madrid derby. Vazquez and Nacho were handed starts, while Modric also came in. It seemed like one of those days before he was saved by his star man.

The Norwegian went missing for the second Premier League game in a row, but few players distinguished themselves in a disappointing defeat

All good things must come to an end, and Manchester City's incredible run of 12 straight Premier League victories over Arsenal was finally halted thanks to a heavily-deflected Gabriel Martinelli goal.

Pep Guardiola's side played without their usual swagger and confidence, and there was an air of shyness about them without Rodri. Indeed, they have lost all three matches that the influential Spaniard has been suspended for.

But most worrying for the treble winners is the form of Erling Haaland. The Norwegian gave Arsenal almost nothing to worry about and uncharacteristically ducked out of a header which he usually would have powered straight into the net. He has now failed to score in his last three matches.

The international break comes at a good time for him and will give him time to reset for City's next matches, against Brighton and Manchester United.

GOAL rates Manchester City's players from the Emirates Stadium…

Getty ImagesGoalkeeper & Defence

Ederson (6/10):

Barely had to make a save until being beaten by a wild deflection.

Kyle Walker (6/10):

Guarded the right side of the pitch astutely. Didn't get forward much.

Ruben Dias (7/10):

Very assured, barely allowed Nketiah a sniff at goal.

Nathan Ake (6/10):

Solid for most of the game and unlucky with the goal, with Martinelli's shot just bouncing off him and into the net. Caused some danger going forward but loses a mark for not hitting the target with a good chance in the first half.

Josko Gvardiol (7/10):

His best game in a City shirt. Alert to the danger, physically imposing and a threat going forward. Had a shot cleared off the line by Rice.

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Rico Lewis (7/10):

Fully justified his selection for such a big game and played with maturity and bravery.

Bernardo Silva (6/10):

Sat very deep and acted more as a destroyer than a creator, albeit a very graceful one.

Mateo Kovacic (5/10):

Kept the ball well but loses marks for two rash and dangerous tackles which could have got him sent off.

Getty ImagesAttack

Julian Alvarez (6/10):

Played with determination and almost caught Raya out when he closed him down while dribbling. Couldn't create much more danger for the rest of the game.

Erling Haaland (4/10):

Another really poor performance. Ducked out of a good heading opportunity in the first half and barely seen in the second.

Phil Foden (5/10):

Couldn't influence the game much.

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John Stones (6/10):

Made his first Premier League appearance of the season but couldn't have much impact.

Jeremy Doku (7/10):

Looked a threat and worked hard defensively.

Matheus Nunes (6/10):

Could have shown more aggression and didn't look like turning the game around after Arsenal went ahead.

Pep Guardiola (6/10):

Surprisingly kept Kovacic on after half-time despite the risk. It made no difference in the end and his subs made sense even if they did not pay off.

Pep Guardiola insists he does not "want to make a thing" of Mauricio Pochettino not shaking his hand after Chelsea and Manchester City's draw.

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Article continues below

Poch did not shake Guardiola's handInstead chose to confront the refereeHad to be restrained by Chelsea staffWHAT HAPPENED?

Amidst a chaotic game that saw eight goals scored, Pochettino appeared to fume at referee Anthony Taylor's decision to blow the full-time whistle after Marc Cucurella had regained possession on the halfway line. While it is customary for both managers to shake hands after the final whistle, the Argentine instead stormed straight onto the pitch, and had to be restrained by Chelsea staff members.

AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Pochettino had seen his Chelsea side bounce back from going a goal down on three separate occasions, with Cole Palmer's 95th-minute penalty ultimately rescuing a point. It comes after Monday's wild 4-1 win over Tottenham, and the results leave the Blues 10th going into the international break, while City are back on top, with a one-point lead over second-placed Liverpool.

WHAT THEY SAID

When asked about the handshake snub after the game, Guardiola replied: "It's completely fine. It's emotion. I don't want to make a thing about it."

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GettyWHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Chelsea play Newcastle after the international break, while City play Liverpool, in two heavyweight clashes that could go a long way to deciding how wins the title and who finishes in the top four.