Martin Samuel

For the first time in the Spaniard’s reign, City look like a team who lack direction. What could better energise exhausted stars than news that he is staying put?

There is almost nowhere in the world where Israel’s athletes would not be met with huge protest and the implications are far bigger than what happens at the next game or tournament

Emphatic win over Greece with a hotchpotch team shows there is more than enough talent on the pitch – but let’s not pretend it’s not the same off it

United need a good striker and Ratcliffe’s responsibility is to provide one. If £30 million to a middle man gets him one, that represents good business

England’s new head coach will do things his way. His 18-month contract means he will focus on the 2026 World Cup, not on building a team for the future

Manager’s new contract won’t be affected by outcome of club’s hearing into 115 Premier League alleged charges, with City expected to confirm signing of extension this week

Smithfield meat market may not be moving down the line after all. The plan, to wholly relocate to Dagenham by 2028, is on hold and some traders believe the City of London Corporation has abandoned it

There was little pomp or ceremony on display at head coach’s unveiling at desolate Carrington training ground, but plenty of sage analysis from a man full of belief that things can be different

If striker wants to impress Rúben Amorim and be part of new era at Manchester United then his trip across the Atlantic won’t help – at 27 he should be part of project for long haul

Champions looked more befuddled than ever as they were smashed 4-0 by Tottenham Hotspur. Pep Guardiola must be staggered by what he saw