Chelsea star Emerson Palmieri’s agent has this evening spoken out over his client’s future in London.
Chelsea struggles
Emerson, a 24-year-old left-back, made the move to Stamford Bridge in January of last year, from AS Roma.
However, the Brazilian-born Italian’s Chelsea stint subsequently got off to a rocky start, to say the least.
Over the course of his first 12 months with the Blues, Emerson managed a measly 3 Premier League starts, after failing to displace Marcos Alonso in the plans of either Antonio Conte or Maurizio Sarri.
As such, the stopper was heavily-linked with a return to Serie A during the winter transfer window.
The likes of Juventus and Inter Milan were both named as sides expressing a keen interest in the South American’s services.
‘Future is in London’
The closing months of the season, however, proved a very different story.
After being handed the chance to impress during an extended run of appearances by Maurizio Sarri, Emerson seized his opportunity with both hands.
The twice-capped Italian international went on to push Marcos Alonso frequently to the bench, impressing both defensively and with his constant bursts forward.
DUBLIN, IRELAND – AUGUST 01: Emerson Palmieri of Chelsea during the Pre-season friendly International Champions Cup game between Arsenal and Chelsea at Aviva stadium on August 1, 2018 in Dublin, Ireland. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)
Emerson’s influence was most-keenly felt in the Europa League, where the 24-year-old played the full 90 minutes in both of the Blues’ semi-final meetings with Eintracht Frankfurt, as well as the club’s showpiece victory over Arsenal last night.
The Santos youth product even set up Olivier Giroud’s opener with a pinpoint delivery.
And, as confirmed by agent Leonardo Cornacini this evening, Emerson’s upturn in fortunes over the last couple of months appear to have decided his future, with the full-back set to remain at Stamford Bridge into next season and beyond:
‘He still has years left on his contract.’
‘He’s happy and the club are happy to keep him. We’re certain that his future is in London.’
Chelsea and Arsenal clashed in Baku on Wednesday evening for the right to lift the Europa League trophy.
Prior to 2019’s final, Arsenal had never won the Europa League while Chelsea had won it back in 2013, seeing off Benfica.
The final certainly attracted headlines in the build-up to Wednesday, largely because Henrikh Mkhitaryan chose not to travel over safety concerns.
But despite the politics heading into the game, the final was very entertaining, at least the second half was anyway.
Here are three of the key talking points from the 2019 Europa League final.
A general view of UEFA Europa League logo prior to the UEFA Europa League final at The Olympic Stadium, Baku, Azerbaijan. (Photo by Steven Paston/PA Images via Getty Images)
Has Hazard played his final game for Chelsea?
One of the biggest talking points coming out of the final will likely be if it was Eden Hazard’s last game for Chelsea.
The Belgian has had an excellent 2018/19 season, scoring 16 and assisting 15 in 37 Premier League outings.
However, Hazard was kept fairly quiet during the opening 45 minutes in Baku. But the Chelsea forward would liven up in the second half, providing the assist for Chelsea’s second goal of the final.
Nevertheless, Hazard could well now be on his way to Spain.
The attacker has been linked with a move to Real Madrid for some time now but on Wednesday, Spanish outlet AS reported that Los Blancos will announce Hazard as their player on June 3rd.
Chelsea have signed Christian Pulisic from Borussia Dortmund who could, in theory, be replacing Hazard. But it’s extremely hard to replace someone of his quality.
Hazard also spoke to a BT Sports reporter after the game, who asked about his future, to which he replied:
“I think it is a goodbye. My dream was to play in the Premier League and I did that for 7 years with the best team in the world.” As quoted by the Evening Standard.
BAKU, AZERBAIJAN – MAY 29: Olivier Giroud of Chelsea celebrates after scoring a goal to make it 1-0 during the UEFA Europa League Final between Chelsea and Arsenal at Baku Olimpiya Stadionu on May 29, 2019 in Baku, Azerbaijan. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)
Could Giroud be Chelsea’s main striker next season?
Chelsea have really struggled in their search for an inform number nine this season.
Alvaro Morata played a fair few games in the first half of the 2018/19 campaign under Maurizio Sarri.
The Spaniard was not in great form though and was loaned out to Atletico Madrid in January.
Morata has also reportedly said he wants to finish his career in Madrid.
Chelsea would then loan one of Sarri’s former players, Gonzalo Higuain.
The Blues are said to have the option to extend Higuain’s loan deal for another season, for a fee of £15.6m.
But the Argentine doesn’t look like he has really settled at Stamford Bridge. He has scored just five goals in 17 appearances across all competitions for Chelsea.
Also with Chelsea staring down the barrel of a transfer ban, they may not be able to sign another forward this summer.
So, this begs the question, should Chelsea make Olivier Giroud their main striker next season?
The Frenchman doesn’t have a great record in the PL this season, scoring just two in 27 appearances.
However, it should be noted that 20 of those appearances came from the bench.
Furthermore, as was once again shown in Baku, Giroud has been in excellent form in the EL this campaign.
Giroud impresses in Baku
After a slow first half, Giroud opened the scoring for Chelsea in the 49th minute with a superb header.
Giroud would also assist Hazard for his second and Chelsea’s 4th of the night.
This put the Chelsea forward to 11 goals and four assists in 14 Europa League appearance this season.
With that type of goal scoring record combined with Chelsea’s potential transfer ban, surely Chelsea should give Giroud more first-team football in the league next year.
BAKU, AZERBAIJAN – MAY 29: Unai Emery the head coach / manager of Arsenal during the UEFA Europa League Final between Chelsea and Arsenal at Baku Olimpiya Stadionu on May 29, 2019 in Baku, Azerbaijan. (Photo by James Williamson – AMA/Getty Images)
Arsenal set to lose out on CL revenue
The Europa League final had more significance to Arsenal than Chelsea.
While both managers were competing for a trophy in their first season in England, the Gunners had something else on the line as well.
After a poor end to the season that saw Arsenal lose three games in the space of a week, the Gunners would finish 5th in the PL.
This meant Arsenal would be missing out on the Champions League next season unless they beat Chelsea.
Missing out on CL football is bad for two main reasons. Firstly, it will likely be harder to attract bigger players when you can’t offer them Champions League football.
Secondly, qualifying for the UCL earns you a lot more money than making it into the EL.
According to the Telegraph, if Arsenal were to miss out on Europe’s top competition and its high revenue, their transfer budget could be as little as £40m.
As per a report from Spanish journalist Gerard Romero, a groundbreaking swap deal between Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain involving Neymar and Ousmane Dembele could be on the cards this summer.
Neymar & Dembele’s respective struggles
Following 4 years trophy-laden seasons at the Camp Nou, Brazilian superstar Neymar made the move to French giants PSG in the summer of 2017, for a world-record 222 million Euro fee.
Barcelona quickly moved to replace the Selecao star, snapping up Ousmane Dembele from Borussia Dortmund for a fee with the potential to rise to almost 150 million Euro.
However, to say that both moves have since proven somewhat underwhelming would be putting it lightly.
While Neymar has absolutely dazzled when fit and firing at the Parc des Princes, a pair of long-term injury problems have seen the 27-year-old confined to the sidelines when PSG have needed him most in each of his two seasons in Paris.
Neymar during the UEFA Champions League Group C match between Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
Dembele, meanwhile, has similarly struggled with his fitness in Catalunya.
After a hugely-disappointing debut campaign with La Liga champions Barca, the Frenchman looked to have finally turned things around towards the end of last year, when he embarked on a scintillating run of form to showcase exactly why the Blaugrana had agreed to splash out such a hefty sum on his signature.
The second-half of the season, though, once again saw Dembele struggle with a number of fitness problems, forcing Ernesto Valverde to make do without the explosive wide-man in both legs of the club’s Champions League semi-final defeat to Liverpool, and the Copa Del Rey final.
Ousmane Dembele during the La Liga match between FC Barcelona and CD Leganes. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Neymar back to the Camp Nou?
As per the aforementioned report from Gerard Romero of RAC1 this evening, though, Barcelona and PSG could be set to cut their losses on their respective attackers this summer, in a high-profile swap deal.
In fact, Romero goes as far as to claim that negotiations over such a transfer are already underway
As per a report from Marcal Lorente of Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona’s pursuit of in-demand Ajax starlet Matthijs de Ligt has hit a major roadblock.
De Ligt in-demand
Despite the summer transfer window having not yet opened in any of Europe’s major divisions apart from the Premier League, speculation surrounding the respective futures of a number of football’s biggest stars has nevertheless been rampant for weeks now.
The likes of Antoine Griezmann, Philippe Coutinho, Eden Hazard and Paul Pogba have all been tipped to find their way to new clubs over the coming months.
No player, however, has been more widely-talked about than Ajax’s Matthijs de Ligt.
Matthijs de Ligt celebrates scoring for Ajax vs Tottenham Hotspur – UEFA Champions League – Semi-Final – Second-Leg. (Photo by Bradley Collyer/EMPICS/PA Images via Getty Images)
Dutch stopper de Ligt has emerged as Europe’s most highly-sought after youngster, on the back of a stunning season.
Along with sealing a domestic double, the 19-year-old, already Ajax’s captain and a regular for the Netherlands at international level, led the Amsterdam outfit to the semi-finals of the Champions League.
De Ligt’s combination of physique, athleticism, aggression, reading of the game and ability with the ball come together to form the package of a complete, modern centre-half.
Barcelona ‘move away’
As such, it has come as little surprise to see the prodigious teen added to the respective wish-lists of a whole host of football’s heavyweights.
The likes of Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Juventus and Manchester United have all been named as keen suitors of de Ligt.
La Liga champions Barca, though, have long-been viewed as favourites to actually clinch a deal for the Dutchman.
Matthijs de Ligt looks set to leave Ajax for Barcelona this summer, irrespective of interest from English clubs, Sky Sports News understands.
As per the aforementioned update from Marcal Lorente of Mundo Deportivo, however, the Blaugrana’s pursuit of de Ligt looks to have reached an impasse.
The board of the Catalan giants have reportedly come to the decision that the financial commitment required to sign Ajax’s captain poses too heavy a burden, with Barca having prioritized additions in other areas.
As per a report from the reliable Alfredo Martinez of Onda Cero, Spanish giants Barcelona will consider parting ways with Ernesto Valverde this summer, despite the Spaniard having only recently signed a new contract.
Barcelona 1-2 Valencia
Valverde’s men travelled to the Estadio Benito Villamarín last night, for the final of the Copa Del Rey.
The Blaugrana headed into proceedings hoping to bounce back, after seeing their treble hopes wiped out in remarkable fashion by Liverpool earlier this month.
However, when all was said and done, the latest sub-par showing on Barca’s part eventually saw the Catalan giants put to the sword by 2 goals to 1.
First-half strikes from Kevin Gameiro and Rodrigo proved the difference between the sides, as Lionel Messi’s finish 20 minutes from time came as little more than a consolation.
SEVILLE, SPAIN – MAY 25: Jordi Alba of FC Barcelona looks dejected after the Spanish Copa del Rey match between Barcelona and Valencia at Estadio Benito Villamarin on May 25, 2019 in Seville. (Photo by TF-Images/Getty Images)
‘Not guaranteed’
As such, as mentioned above, within the space of 3 weeks, Barcelona have seen their hopes of securing a trio of trophies cut to just the La Liga title.
However, even more concerning than the recent results racked up by the Blaugrana, have been their shoddy performances.
Defensive frailties, coupled with a frankly-ridiculous over-reliance on Lionel Messi, have seen large sections of the Barca faithful begin to turn on Ernesto Valverde.
And, as per the aforementioned update from the reliable Alfredo Martinez, the worrying lack of conviction showcased by the Spanish tactician over the season’s run-in looks set to see his position at the Camp Nou come under threat.
Despite having only signed a contract extension in February, there is said to be no guarantee that Valverde will lead the La Liga champions into next season:
‘It’s already news that Valverde, renewed weeks ago, does not have 100% guaranteed continuity.’
Martinez, though, does deny claims of an emergency summit set to be held by the Blaugrana hierarchy regarding their boss’ future.
West Brom were relegated from the Premier League at the end of the 2017/18 season, finishing 20th with 31 points.
Darren Moore took charge of the club towards the end of their stay in England’s top flight, and remained in charge with the task of winning promotion in the 2018/19 season.
With top players such as Jay Rodriguez, Dwight Gayle and Kieran Gibbs, Baggies’ fans may have viewed promotion as almost inevitable.
However, West Brom would soon find out what a tough league the Championship is.
West Brom missed out on an automatic promotion spot, finishing 4th, nine points below 2nd placed Sheffield United.
Darren Moore would also be sacked in early March, with caretaker James Shan taking charge for the rest of the season.
Shan would also be in the dugout as West Brom lost to Aston Villa in the play-off semi-finals via penalties.
Villa will now face Derby County for the final promotion spot.
Darren Moore, Caretaker Manager of West Bromwich Albion shows appreciation to the fans after the Premier League match between West Bromwich Albion and Tottenham Hotspur at The Hawthorns on May 5, 2018 in West Bromwich, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Bruno Labbadia in the running for Baggies job
With West Brom’s season now officially over, they appear to have stepped up their search for a new manager.
According to the Telegraph’s Midlands football reporter John Percy, Bruno Labbadia will be interviewed for the vacant position on Monday the 27th of May.
One of the hottest targets this summer is Ajax defender Matthijs de Ligt.
De Ligt, 19, seems certain to leave Ajax in the off-season.
Last week Jan Aage Fjortoft reported on social media that Manchester United were actively trying to sign de Ligt.
….if there is signing that is perfect for @ManUtd it is Ajax-captain de Ligt.
Center half ✅
Leader ✅
Young ✅
Everything the club is missing right now.
Be sure! They are working VERY hard to get him
— Jan Aage Fjortoft (@JanAageFjortoft) May 21, 2019
Back then, it seemed unlikely that Man United would stand a chance at landing the Dutch teenager.
Having finished sixth in the Premier League, Man United can only offer Europa League football to a player who just scored in a Champions League semi-final.
Yet, on Saturday night, the narrative appears to have changed dramatically.
Man United are ‘very close’ to signing Ajax’s de Ligt
According to Gerard Romero, a Spanish journalist who works for Esports RAC1, Man United are “very close” to signing de Ligt.
Is the deal for the Ajax star done? No, not yet.
However, Gerard Romero claims that Man United have tabled an offer for the centre-half, and de Ligt is open to talks.
☎️☎️☎️ #mercato
De Ligt muy cerca del United! OJO!
No definitivo pero propuesta MUY buena para el jugador ☎️☎️☎️ https://t.co/88f6XAlDNC
If that wasn’t enough, the Independent’s chief football writer Miguel Delaney has also reported on Man United and de Ligt.
He’s claimed that Man United are “willing to offer ‘staggering’ money to De Ligt, and he is listening.”
United willing to offer “staggering” money to De Ligt, and he is listening. Worth noting, though, that De Jong had similar with PSG (and was close) before eventually doing what everyone expected and signing for Barca.
Barca also have an issue where they badly need players off their wage bill to facilitate such signings. A huge problem for them is, well, no one willingly wants to leave Barca. Great club, great money, great lifestyle. Would take huge wage to get Rakitic, for example.
I can’t wait to see how Manchester United will word their tweet on the day of the Matthijs de Ligt signing.
Something like “We are delighted to announce that Marcos Rojo has signed a new three-year deal” posted while Barcelona are presenting their new Dutch centre back.
Former Arsenal striker Robin van Persie has claimed Unai Emery’s side could soon challenge Manchester City for the Premier League title.
You have to go as far back as 2004 to see Arsenal’s last Premier League title.
While there have been some impressive seasons since then, none have resulted in English top flight triumph.
Since their last title, the Gunners have been on a slippery slope too.
Arsene Wenger lost the fans a couple of seasons ago following several disappointing campaigns and was replaced by Unai Emery last summer.
While there has been some progression, a Premier League title push still alludes them.
Arsenal eventually finished fifth in the recently concluded domestic campaign.
Though, despite that, Robin van Persie believes Arsenal are capable of pushing for a Premier League trophy.
VALENCIA, SPAIN – MAY 09: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal (R) celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal with teammate Alexandre Lacazette during the UEFA Europa League Semi Final Second Leg match between Valencia and Arsenal at Estadio Mestalla on May 09, 2019 in Valencia, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
“They’re close already, they’ve been close for so many years”
Speaking to the BBC, Van Persie claimed that Arsenal have been close to challenging for the title for ‘so many years’ and are still capable.
When asked about whether Arsenal could challenge for the title again, Van Persie was adamant the Gunners can mount a push.
Though, Arsenal’s fate may rest in Pep Guardiola’s hands.
“Of course they can, yes, because they’re close already, they’ve been close for so many years,” he explained.
“It goes in periods. Now you have Manchester City, who are doing unbelievable. To win back-to-back titles is very special – that shows, really, that you’re a proper team.
“But it goes in phases. Maybe [City manager] Pep Guardiola will leave next year and that does something to a club. Maybe Liverpool will take over and they will dominate for the next few years. But I hope and wish Arsenal all the best to win the title. I know how difficult it is.”
Spurs have confirmed that a number of the club’s Season Ticket Holders have been handed indefinite bans, after attempting to sell tickets to the Champions League final on secondary platforms.
Tottenham vs Liverpool
Mauricio Pochettino’s men are set to take on Liverpool next weekend, in the second of two all-English European club finals.
After Arsenal and Chelsea battle it out for the Europa League crown on Wednesday in Baku, Spurs and Liverpool will do likewise on the grandest stage of them all in Madrid.
The north Londoners secured their spot in the Champions League final courtesy of a historic comeback victory over Eredivisie champions Ajax two weeks ago.
After trailing by 3 goals to nil on aggregate at half-time in the tie’s second-leg, a stunning turnaround over the ensuing 45 minutes, courtesy of hat-trick hero Lucas Moura, eventually saw Tottenham advance on away goals.
‘Indefinite bans’
And, ahead of the biggest outing in the club’s history in 11 days’ time at the Wanda Metropolitano, Spurs have today released an official statement pertaining to the clash.
However, the announcement is far from a positive one.
The capital giants have confirmed that 3 of the club’s fans have been issued with indefinite bans.
This comes after the trio, all of whom were Season Ticket Holders, attempted to sell their tickets for the Champions League final on secondary ticketing platforms, no doubt at massive prices.
Tottenham’s statement reads as follows:
The Club has this week issued indefinite bans to three Season Ticket Holders who have listed their Champions League Final tickets for sale on a secondary ticketing platform.
We shall look to take the strongest possible action against anyone found to be engaging in such activity.
