The whirlwind world of European soccer seldom disappoints, and this weekend was no exception. From the Premier League pressure cooker to LaLiga’s title tussle, there was drama, delight and despair in equal measure. Let’s dive right in and dissect the major storylines that shaped an eventful few days on the continent.
Premier League: Postecoglou’s Tottenham Troubles Deepen
Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham tenure reached a new low on Sunday, succumbing to a 2-1 defeat against Leicester City. The result consigned Spurs to an unwanted piece of history – their worst ever run in the Premier League era. Four consecutive losses leave the North Londoners languishing in 15th, a mere eight points above the relegation zone.
While injuries have undoubtedly played a part, questions are being asked of Postecoglou’s stubborn tactical approach. His high-intensity, possession-based philosophy appears to be taking a physical and mental toll on a depleted squad. With a Carabao Cup run their only saving grace, the pressure is mounting on the Australian coach.
Manchester City Right the Ship
Meanwhile, Manchester City shrugged off an early deficit to secure a 3-1 win over Chelsea. Pep Guardiola handed debuts to summer signings Abdukodir Khusanov and Omar Marmoush, with mixed results. Khusanov’s error led to Chelsea’s opener, but Marmoush’s pace and direct running augur well for the champions.
A return to winning ways lifts City back into the top four, but the headlines were stolen by Chelsea keeper Robert Sánchez’s calamitous decision to rush off his line, gifting Erling Haaland a simple finish. Sánchez’s blushes were spared by the final scoreline, but it was a moment to forget for the Spaniard.
Isak Inspires Newcastle, Calafiori Saves Arsenal
Elsewhere, Alexander Isak’s brace powered Newcastle to a 3-1 victory over Southampton. The Swedish striker’s Thierry Henry-esque second goal was a particular highlight, controlling a lofted pass before lashing home. Isak’s form makes him a strong contender for Europe’s most in-form forward.
Arsenal, meanwhile, required a Riccardo Calafiori stunner to edge past Wolves. The Italian fullback’s late intervention secured a vital three points for the 10-man Gunners, keeping their title hopes alive by the skin of their teeth.
LaLiga: Real Madrid Seize the Initiative
In Spain, Real Madrid capitalized on Atlético Madrid’s slip-up to forge a four-point lead atop LaLiga. French phenom Kylian Mbappé bagged a hat-trick as Los Blancos brushed aside Valladolid 3-0. Carlo Ancelotti’s men are hitting their stride at a crucial juncture, and with Vinícius Júnior set to return from suspension, they’ll take some stopping.
Atlético could only muster a 1-1 draw against Villarreal, halting their eight-game winning streak. The stalemate makes the February 8 Madrid derby at the Bernabéu all the more pivotal. Over in Catalonia, Barcelona romped to a 7-1 rout of Valencia, with braces from Raphinha and Fermín López reiterating their championship credentials.
Best of the Rest
- Bundesliga: Dortmund’s first match under caretaker boss Mike Tullberg ended in a frenetic 2-2 draw with Werder Bremen. Nico Schlotterbeck’s early red card hampered BVB, who showed spirit but familiar failings.
- Serie A: A thrilling 3-2 comeback win for AC Milan over Parma, sealed by Samuel Chukwueze’s 95th-minute winner. U.S. duo Christian Pulisic and Yunus Musah played starring roles at San Siro.
- Ligue 1: PSG’s lead looks unassailable, but AS Monaco ended a barren run with a vital win over Rennes. Manager Adi Hütter lives to fight another day.
As the dust settles on another weekend of twists and turns, the only certainty is that more drama awaits. The European soccer carousel stops for no one, and we’ll be back next week to unpack it all. Same time, same place – you won’t want to miss it.
