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Goal looks at the players who have created the most chances in the top five European leagues this season

20Lucas Perez | 77 chances created

Lucas Perez is still technically an Arsenal player, but has enjoyed an impressive season out on loan at Deportivo La Coruna as he waits to learn more about his long-term future after Arsene Wenger's departure from the Emirates Stadium.

AdvertisementGetty Images19Alexis Sanchez | 77 chances created

Sanchez has had his critics this season due to his reduced goal contribution at both Arsenal and Manchester United, but he has created 77 chances this season,

The Chilean also missed nine games in the Premier League, leaving him with one of the best chances created per minute ratios in the entirety of Europe.

Getty Images18Xherdan Shaqiri | 77 chances created

To make this list at a relegated club is some achievement. Shaqiri created 77 chances for Stoke but they couldn’t avoid relegation from the Premier League.

Shaqiri is unlikely to be short of suitors this summer amid expectations he will be sold following Stoke's drop into the Championship.

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Getty17 Aleksandar Kolarov | 78 chances created

The Serbian has been back to his best this season at Roma, assisting eight goals from left-back and creating 78 chances.

From Bryan Robson to Eric Cantona, the club have asked some talismanic figures to wear the armband

There have been many great personalities who have led Manchester United, and while a few are still remembered fondly, some have faded from memory.

In the early 1980s, 'Captain Marvel' Bryan Robson was given the captain's armband by Ron Atkinson. The coach broke the bank to sign Robson from West Brom for a then-British record transfer fee and had no qualms in handing over the captaincy to the midfielder.

It is believed that even former Liverpool manager Bill Shankly advised Atkinson to go all out for Robson. "Every penny it takes Ron, every penny it takes," Shankly reportedly told Atkinson.

However, Sir Matt Busby quit the board because he thought no player could be worth more than a million pounds. In spite of that, Robson survived and United started to reap the dividends.

In fact, when the Premier League era kicked off Robson still had the armband. However, his qualities were on the wane and Ferguson would often bench him, eventually leading Steve Bruce to take the armband.

Robson played 466 times for United and scored 99 goals. He was the United captain for 12 years, sharing the role with Bruce for the last two years.

Who went on to serve as United's captains in the Premier League era? GOAL takes a look.

GettySteve Bruce (1992-96)

Bruce was already the co-captain along with Robson from 1992. In 1994, he assumed the charge himself.

It was his brace against Sheffield Wednesday that helped United to win the inaugural Premier League title in 1992-93.

He made 414 appearances for the club and even led the side to a domestic double in the 1995-96 season.

AdvertisementEric CantonaEric Cantona (1996-97)

The Frenchman became the first foreign-born player to lead United. He was a popular figure in the dressing room and was key to United's success in the initial years of the Premier League.

Ferguson built his team around Cantona and he delivered on most occasions. He made 185 appearances for the Red Devils and scored 82 goals. His shock retirement at the end of the 1996-97 season at the age of just 30 stunned the football world.

Getty ImagesRoy Keane (1997-2005)

After Cantona, it was Roy Keane who took up the armband. He was one of the most committed players in a United shirt and would inspire the team to histooric success as he played the game with a fierce passion.

He had the qualities of a complete central midfielder and was primarily known for his late runs into the box, high work-rate and perfectly timed tackles.

He scored on his home debut and went on to become a fan favourite after finding the net in a Manchester derby.

He made 480 appearances for United and scored 51 goals. During his stint as the captain, United won four league titles, two FA Cups and one Champions League.

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GettyGary Neville (2005-2011)

Gary Neville was one of Ferguson's most trusted lieutenants and belonged to the Class of '92 batch. He played for almost 20 years at United and spent six of those terms as captain. With 602 appearances for the club, he ranks fifth on the all-time appearance list.

The 2006 League Cup was his first trophy as a captain. However, the UEFA Champions League win in Moscow against Chelsea was his most cherished trophy as a captain.

Karim Benzema has long been regarded as one of the greatest strikers of his generation, but just how many times in total has he found the net?

Karim Benzema has long been regarded as one of the most well-rounded forwards in the game and his recent Ballon d'Or win confirmed his status as one of the greatest of his generation.

He has been a constant presence for Real Madrid for over a decade, but he was not always been the dominant force at the Santiago Bernabeu as he spent a large chunk of his career in the shadow of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Known for his exceptional work-rate, potent finishing and playmaking, the Frenchman sacrificed his own attacking returns for many seasons to be an amazing provider for the Portuguese star, who garnered all the media attention.

Following Ronaldo's departure in 2018, Benzema's rise has been a meteoric one. His reputation as one of the world's best operators in European football grew multi-folds year after year, as did his goal-scoring output.

Now plying his trade in the Middle-East with reigning Saudi Pro League champions Al-Ittihad, and as they say, he is ageing like a fine wine and if anything he only seems to be getting better with age.

But just how many goals has he scored during his outrageous career at Lyon, Real Madrid, Al-Ittihad, and France?

Let's take a look.

GettyHow many goals does Karim Benzema have for Al-Ittihad?

In a shock move, Benzema left Real Madrid in the summer of 2023 after 14 trophy-laden seasons at the Bernabeu, following in Cristiano Ronaldo's footsteps and becoming the second global superstar to quit European football for Saudi Pro League adventure.

Al-Ittihad come off of an emphatic title win over Ronaldo's Al-Nassr and are considered the dominant force in Saudi Arabia. Add a five-time Champions League winner and current Ballon d'Or holder to the mix, as well as a sprinkling of other high-profile signings, they are the odds-on favourites to repeat their success from last season.

Season

Games

Goals

2023-24

7

4

AdvertisementGettyHow many goals did Karim Benzema score for Real Madrid?

In 2009, Benzema joined Real Madrid for a transfer fee of €35 million, rising to €41 million based on add-ons.

However, he had a rough start at his new club as he scored just nine in 33 appearances in his debut season.

He eventually came good, though, and following Gareth Bale's then-record transfer from Tottenham Hotspur, Bale, Benzema, and Cristiano Ronaldo forged one of Europe's most fearsome attacking trios, dubbed the BBC.

However, the French star's selfless contributions, work ethic, and ability to creating plays and spaces for others to exploit seemingly went unnoticed at times.

Now that Ronaldo has left the Santiago Bernabeu, however, Benzema is finally thriving more and getting the spotlight he deserves.

He is currently second on the all-time scoring list for Madrid and fourth on all-time UEFA Champions League charts, with former team-mate Ronaldo topping both podiums.

Season

Games

Goals

2022-23

43

31

2021-22

46

44

2020-21

46

30

2019-20

48

27

2018-19

53

30

2017-18

47

12

2016-17

48

19

2015-16

36

28

2014-15

46

22

2013-14

52

24

2012-13

50

20

2011-12

52

32

2010-11

48

26

2009-10

33

9

Total

648

354

Getty ImagesHow many goals did Benzema get for Lyon

Benzema began his youth career with Bron before joining boyhood club Lyon in 1997. He progressed through the youth ranks and then made his first senior appearance for the French outfit in 2005.

He assisted Lyon’s second goal and subsequently went on to sign his first professional contract with the club.

Despite his tender years, Benzema earned a reputation for himself as a lethal finisher from within the box with either foot and his head, despite being typically right-footed.

Benzema recorded 66 goals in 148 competitive appearances for Lyon and later became one of France's highest-paid players after renewing his contract in 2008.

During his time at Lyon, he earned himself the Ligue 1 top scorer, French Cup top scorer, several player of the month awards.

Season

Games

Goals

2008-09

47

23

2007-08

52

31

2006-07

27

8

2005-06

16

4

2004-05

6

0

Total

148

66

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Getty ImagesBenzema goals for France

It's safe to say Benzema's international career has been a turbulent one, full of controversy.

In 2006, before his international career even started, he spoke openly about his desire to play for the Algerian national team, the native country of both of his parents, but would play for France for only sporting reasons.

In 2015, Noel Le Graet, the president of the FFF, suspended the striker indefinitely from the national team after he was arrested by police for his alleged involvement in blackmailing fellow France international player Mathieu Valbuena.

He didn't appear for France between 2016-2020 and this absence has tainted his CV. He was called back by Didier Deschamps in 2021

Since his return, he has been showing what France missed out on and he also helped them win a Nations League trophy.

Season

Games

Goals

2022

3

1

2021

13

9

2020

0

0

2019

0

0

2018

0

0

2017

0

0

2016

0

0

2015

4

2

2014

13

7

2013

10

3

2012

12

2

2011

10

2

2010

5

3

2009

8

3

2008

11

2

2007

8

3

Total

97

37

Lionel Messi may be lined up for a reunion with another former Barcelona team-mate, with Arturo Vidal open to the idea of joining Inter Miami.

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Argentine icon in the United StatesJoined by Busquets & AlbaChilean willing to make MLS move

WHAT HAPPENED?

Seven-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi has already been joined in Florida by the familiar faces of Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba since making his way to the United States. There has been talk of Luis Suarez treading a similar path at some stage in the near future.

AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Before any deal is done there, the prospect of Vidal heading to America has been discussed. The 36-year-old Chile international midfielder, who spent two years at Barcelona between 2018 and 2020, is preparing to sever ties with Brazilian side Athletico Paranaense after leaving Flamengo in July. He has told of heading to MLS: “I would happily go and play with Messi. With him it's very easy, you just have to pass him the ball. In the United States there are several rules that prevent more older players from going, that's why it hasn't happened before. I would be delighted to play with Leo, Busquets – they play by heart and now Inter Miami plays like that too, with a good coach [Tata Martino].”

AND WHAT'S MORE

Vidal, who has earned 140 caps for his country, has also discussed the possibility of lining up against Messi at the 2024 Copa America – which will take place in America. He added on the all-time great, who has suggested that he will not be defending a global crown with Argentina at the 2026 World Cup: “I see Messi playing for a long time with the Argentine team. He enjoys it and is happy wearing the Argentine shirt.”

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GettyWHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Messi is showing no sign of slowing down at club level, with a record-breaking 44th trophy captured within weeks of his arrival at Inter Miami. On the back of inspiring them to Leagues Cup glory, the South American superstar has also helped to book a place in the U.S. Open Cup final and secure a much-needed MLS win over the New York Red Bulls.

Kylian Mbappe says he has far to go after reaching a "hilarious" 300-goal career milestone, thanks to a hat-trick in France’s 14-0 win over Gibraltar.

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Mbappe starred in France's win over GibraltarScored a hat-trick to reach 300 career goalsVowed to keep improving for club and countryWHAT HAPPENED?

The 24-year-old striker led from the front with a fine hat-trick as France scored over a dozen past Gibraltar on Saturday night. He started the scoring on the night from the spot on the half-hour mark and went on to add two more in the second half which helped him reach the 300-goal mark. Mbappe naturally found reasons to celebrate as he is gunning to be the best of all time – therefore meaning he harbours lofty ambitions.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesWHAT MBAPPE SAID

Speaking after the match to , Mbappe said: "It’s just part of the process, there are some players who scored 800 or 850 goals in their career. 300 is just hilarious! I have to keep going and improve for both club and national team."

Getty/GOALTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Earlier in September, Cristiano Ronaldo became the first player to score 850 career goals when he struck against Al-Hazm in a Saudi Pro League fixture. Whereas, Lionel Messi is not far behind as the Argentine boasts 821 goals in 1044 career appearances.

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WHAT NEXT FOR MBAPPE?

Mbappe still has a long way to go to match the goalscoring numbers of the two legends of the game. However, with time on his side, nothing is impossible for the prolific PSG striker.

Real Madrid star Aurelien Tchouameni reached for the popcorn after Kylian Mbappe reportedly informed PSG about a potential summer exit.

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Mbappe set to leave PSG in the summerTchouameni had earlier denied knowing details about Mbappe's futureShares an incredible bond with the PSG forwardGetty/GOALWHAT HAPPENED?

On Wednesday afternoon, Tchouameni posted a tweet featuring two popcorn emojis, shortly after reports surfaced regarding Mbappe's contract situation in Paris. His cryptic tweet following the news of Mbappe's impending departure from Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the season, sparked speculation that the French midfielder might have more details about the transfer with a section of fans even interpreting it as a subtle nod towards Mbappe's rumoured move to Real Madrid.

AdvertisementTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Tchouameni has forged a close bond with Mbappe as they share the same dressing room when they are called up for national duty by France boss Didier Deschamps. Previously, he did acknowledge that Mbappe's future is a significant topic of discussion within the Real Madrid dressing room but insisted that he has not received any personal communication from Mbappe regarding his plans.

"Has Mbappe communicated to me his decision for next season? Me personally? Not really. And even if he had told me, I wouldn't have said it," he said.

"We talk about it from time to time in the dressing room, it's an important topic. We hope things calm down in the coming weeks."

DID YOU KNOW?

Mbappe is PSG's all-time leading goalscorers and has scored 243 goals in 290 appearances for the club in all competitions.

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(C)Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT?

Mbappe's potential departure from PSG marks another chapter in the ongoing saga surrounding one of football's most prominent transfer stories. While Liverpool and Arsenal have been linked in the past with the 25-year-old, Real Madrid appears to be the leading contender to secure his signature. As Los Blancos fans eagerly await Mbappe's decision, Tchouameni's tweet definitely adds an intriguing twist to the unfolding narrative that should have an ending in the summer.

The Gunners were 2-1 up but suffered late agony, paving the way for their London rivals to move three points clear at the top of the table

With three results changed by late goals, this weekend's Women's Super League action produced plenty of drama and entertainment once again.

Manchester United brought Arsenal's perfect start to the season to an end with a stoppage-time winner, while West Ham broke the hearts of bottom club Leicester in similar circumstances.

Finally, Liverpool came from two goals down to get a point from Brighton, with the game's final goal coming in the 92nd minute.

So, who had a good week and who had one to forget? GOAL breaks down the chaos below…

GettyWINNER: Chelsea

After watching title rivals Arsenal lose on Saturday, Sunday was the perfect day for Chelsea.

They scored three goals and conceded none in a London derby against Tottenham, putting on a great performance at Stamford Bridge in their first appearance at the stadium this season.

They also welcomed back Emma Hayes for the match, the Blues manager back in the dugout for the first time since undergoing surgery last month, as they went three points clear of the Gunners at the top of the table.

Furthermore, with the champions scoring all three goals in the first half, it meant they were able to make a few early substitutions after the break to rest players ahead of a big midweek fixture, against Real Madrid in the Champions League.

Not a bad weekend at all for Chelsea.

AdvertisementGettyLOSER: Arsenal

Arsenal's 100 per cent record in the league this season came to an end in painful fashion on Saturday evening, with Manchester United running out 3-2 winners at the Emirates thanks to Alessia Russo's stoppage-time header.

After a poor first half, in which they fell behind to an Ella Toone strike, the Gunners took the lead and looked set to see out the win. But United showed incredible character to fight back and take the three points.

It is a setback for Arsenal in their quest for the title, and their first trophy in three years. Fortunately, there is a lot of time left in the season for them to recover.

That will be the interesting thing to watch now, though, as it is the first time this season that this team has failed to win a game of football.

How they respond will be important, particularly given their next fixture is a trip to Juventus in the Champions League to face their old boss, Joe Montemurro.

GettyWINNER: Katie Zelem

Russo grabbed the headlines for her last-gasp winner on Saturday but Katie Zelem was superb in midfield and her set-piece deliveries were crucial to the result.

After helping her team to control large parts of the game, the England international whipped in a superb free-kick in the 85th minute that Millie Turner met brilliantly to thump a header off the underside of the crossbar and into the back of the net.

Once the clock ticked into stoppage time, she then put in another great delivery that Russo connected with to win the game.

Her ability from these situations is deserving of a 'specialist' tag while her overall performance in a huge game will have caught the eye of Sarina Wiegman, the England coach who often picks the midfielder but doesn't give her too many minutes in games.

If she can replicate this level of display on a consistent basis, that will surely change.

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GettyLOSER: Brighton

Brighton are often portrayed as a well-drilled, defensively sound team that are difficult to break down. So far this season, we have just not seen that side of them.

On Sunday, it really hurt them, with the Seagulls leading Liverpool 3-1 as early as the 34th minute, only to concede two goals late in the second half – the equaliser in injury time – to drop two points.

Rachel Furness' 92nd-minute goal was the 26th they've conceded in the league this term in just their seventh game. It's a desperately poor record.

The club are still looking for a new coach after the legendary Hope Powell left in the wake of a humiliating 8-0 loss to Tottenham last month and things should improve once that replacement is found.

Powell's successor will look to rectify those issues at the back straight away and if that objective is achieved, Brighton can quickly put any relegation worries behind them, as the reality is, in spite of their long-held reputation, that this is a team with goals in them too.

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Lots of Aston Villa fans have been running the rule over their third signing of the January transfer window, as Tyrone Mings has joined on loan.

It feels like Aston Villa have been in second gear for most of this season, but fans are hoping their latest signing will kick start a genuine playoff push.

The club have confirmed the capture of Mings from Bournemouth, per their official site, and the defender will join on loan until the end of the season.

The 25 year-old has made just seven first team appearances for the Cherries this season, per Transfermarkt, and has been pushed down the pecking order at the Vitality Stadium by the incredible form of Nathan Ake.

Who are the best away fans in the Championship? Pl>ymaker FC’s Thogden gives his top 10 in the video below…

Dean Smith’s ageing defence has been in need of reinforcements all season, and Mings, a left-footed defender who can play right across the back four, will be a huge boost to the gaffer’s arsenal.

Mings joins Lovre Kalinic and Kortney Hause on the list of January signings, and the Twitter reactions down below are absolutely loving it…

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An essential part of any soccer outfit

Soccer socks don't carry the glamour that many other kit pieces do, so you're unlikely to see professional endorsements for these. But, they're vital to ensuring you stay focused on the game at hand, beat the evening chill, and don't let your standards slip.

There are a variety of options out there, including different lengths, some with specific technology, and others give you a classic offering for those who want to keep it simple. We've put together some of the best soccer socks you can get on the market today, depending on what you want out of your game.

Why do you need soccer socks?

Simply put, soccer socks are designed specifically with a single task in mind – to help you deliver on the pitch on matchday. Soccer socks are explicitly designed to enhance and support your body, aiding you in delivering a better all-around game.

Why do some players cut the feet from their socks? 

In the past few years, there has been a trend of some players cutting the feet off of their soccer socks. Even in the biggest leagues in the world, top players are chopping up official kit socks.

There is reason to the madness, though. Often, it is so a pair of extra-grippy socks can be worn on the feet to stop sliding around inside soccer cleats, while some players find wearing a whole pair of soccer socks restrictive because they can feel too tight on their calf muscles.

Recently, top soccer brands have caught on and designed split socks with either calf sleeves or stirrups so players can have grippy socks without taking scissors to their gear. 

Why do some players wear their socks low?

Players like Jack Grealish, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Francesco Totti are known for wearing their socks low. This can be to the annoyance of referees and match officials when amateurs try to copy the look.

But some players with particularly muscular calves can find long, tight socks restrictive, and lowering them can help relieve some of that tension. Split socks can also remedy some of that discomfort.

Best overall soccer socks adidas Copa Zone Cushion IVadidas$9.95 – $11.99 at Soccer.com

Sometimes, all you need is the basics, and we believe that the adidas Copa Zone is one of the best you can get, despite its deceptive simplicity. In fact, that's part of the appeal – this is a straight-up, top-of-the-table football sock with minimal fuss and plenty of invention.

The lightweight socks are ventilated well with a toe-cooling channel for extra breathability. adidas ClimaLite technology also wicks away moisture to keep your feet nice and dry whilst you're playing. Plus, the compression in the ankle and arch help to improve stability.

Best budget soccer socks Nike CrewNike$14.93 – $17.99 at Soccer.com

Buying a whole soccer outfit can add up, but that doesn't mean you have to break the bank on each and every item. These Nike Crew socks come in three packs, so you get more for your money – that too from a renowned brand.

Made with a thick terry sole, the socks will give you extra comfort for foot drills while high-friction yarns in the footbed reduce slippage. An arch band also provides a snug and secure fit.

Best stirrup soccer socks Kipsta F500Kipsta $0.99 at Decathlon

Remember when we mentioned that many players like to cut their socks to suit their personal needs? These Kipsta F500 stirrups will save you from needing to resort to your own handiwork.

Its bottom band is thin but durable, perfect for weathering the wear and tear of frequent match days without the concern that it will snap under pressure. An anatomic design will shape itself to help provide additional bone coverage against impact.

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Best soccer socks for grip HUANLANG Athletic GripHUANLANG $15.99 at Amazon

There's nothing worse than having your foot slip and slide inside your cleats. But these socks from HUANLAND will ensure that your foot is firmly set on the floor of your cleats for superior ball control and touch.

What's better yet, they're unisex, and you get two pairs, so you always have a backup with you. Antui-slip rubber pads on the bottom of the socks give you a sturdy grip which will help with acceleration and change of direction.

The Barcelona superstar earns an amazing €126 million, according to France Football, which far outstrips his rivals, including Cristiano Ronaldo

Lionel Messi is the highest-paid player in world football, with a staggering value of €126 million!

The figure, which includes bonuses and commercial revenue, far outstrips Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar and Gareth Bale, who trail in Messi's wake.

Goal takes a look at the highest-paid players in world football, according to France Football's latest list!

20Manuel Neuer | Bayern Munich | Value: €20.8mAdvertisementGetty Images19Paul Pogba | Manchester United | €22mGetty Images18Robert Lewandowski | Bayern Munich | €22.2m ENJOYED THIS STORY?

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Getty Images17Oscar | Shanghai SIPG | €22.2m