The Gunners are looking over their shoulders before Thursday’s trip to Brentford after Pep Guardiola’s side backed up Sunday’s last-gasp comeback at Liverpool by sealing a comfortable three points at Etihad Stadium.

Three goals in the space of 15 first-half minutes inflicted the damage against the Cottagers, who have now suffered three consecutive defeats.

The quickfire sequence of goals began when visiting midfielder Sander Berge miscued a clearing header into the path of Antoine Semenyo who poked home from close range for his fifth goal in eight game since signing for City in January.

The Ghanaian then turned provider just six minutes later, sliding a pass onto the run of Nico O’Reilly to double the lead with a deft finish over the advancing Bernd Leno.

And City sealed the points before half-time as Phil Foden found the run of Erling Haaland, who drilled home an unerring finish low into the bottom corner.

Marco Silva’s side will be ruing a missed opportunity by midfielder Harry Wilson, whose low strike at 1-0 down was batted away by Gianluigi Donnarumma.

United seemed to be cruising to victory as Brazilian duo Casemiro and Matheus Cunha put them two up with goals either side of half-time.

But after Raul Jimenez pulled one back five minutes from time with a brilliant penalty into the roof of the home net, Kevin looked to have snatched a point with a thunderous strike to the top corner.

However, in nine minutes of time added on mainly due to two lengthy VAR checks that resulted in United having a penalty overturned and Fulham a goal disallowed, Sesko turned on to a Bruno Fernandes pass and drilled a shot into the top corner.

It took Ruben Amorim 36 Premier League games to win three in a row as United chief, his only sequence of successive victories.

Carrick has taken just three and was serenaded by the home supporters as his side went back into the Premier League’s top four.

Bobb, 22, has agreed a five-and-a-half-year contract at Craven Cottage and will wear the number 14 shirt.

“It feels great to be here. I had a great day meeting everyone and I’m very excited,” Bobb said.

He added that he consulted Fulham midfielder Sander Berge, his Norway team-mate, before agreeing to the move.

“I spoke to Sander, my good friend, and I spoke to the manager, and he explained what the system’s like, and how the lads are, and how the club is,” Bobb said.

“He seemed lovely, so it was an easy decision basically.”

Bobb is a graduate of Manchester City’s academy and made 61 appearances for the senior side, scoring 13 and assisting 27 across all competitions.

Sources say City will retain a 20% sell-on clause, as well as matching rights for any future bids received by the Cottagers.

An example of this being exercised by City came in the summer when they re-signed goalkeeper James Trafford from Burnley after they also accepted a bid from Newcastle.

Bobb has fallen down the pecking order at City after the January arrival of Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth.

“I know there are rumours, I know there are talks,” manager Pep Guardiola said on Saturday after City’s win over Wolves.

Asked if Bobb wants to leave the club, Guardiola replied: “I think so.”

Bobb, who has also had interest from Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund, has featured 15 times for City this season without scoring.

He last played on 17 December against Brentford in the Carabao Cup, when he hobbled off injured inside the opening 20 minutes.

Fulham have lost only one of their last seven Premier League games under Silva and sit seventh in the table following their 2-1 win over Brighton on Saturday.

Bobb has featured six times for Norway this year, helping them qualify for this summer’s World Cup, and would unite with compatriot Sander Berge at Craven Cottage.

He missed almost the whole of last season after fracturing a bone in his leg during training in August 2024.

Florian Wirtz’s equaliser had initially haul Liverpool level after Harry Wilson’s opener, before Gakpo converted Jeremie Frimpong’s cross in stoppage time to seemingly clinch the three points for Liverpool.

But Reed had other ideas as he picked up the ball from 30 yards out and found the top corner with a superb strike.

The draw means Liverpool extend their unbeaten run to nine games, while Fulham are unbeaten in their past five.

Wilson scored against his former club to give Fulham the lead in a first half where Liverpool struggled to break down Marco Silva’s side, despite dominating possession.

Arne Slot’s team upped the ante after the break and were rewarded when Wirtz finished past Leno just before the hour mark, but the goal was initially ruled out for offside.

Replays showed Wirtz in a seemingly offside position but after a lengthy video assistant referee (VAR) check, the technology established that the German was onside and the goal was given.

Kick-off was delayed at Craven Cottage by 15 minutes because of a medical emergency after a member of Fulham’s matchday staff was taken ill and had to be transported to hospital.

Liverpool – who were without top scorer Hugo Ekitike with a slight hamstring issue – started well and Gakpo wasted a good chance when he scuffed his left-footed effort wide.

In the 18th minute they were punished by Fulham’s first attempt on goal. Raul Jimenez did superbly to play in Wilson, who took a touch and drilled a left-footed strike past Alisson into the bottom corner.

The offside flag went up to curtail Wilson’s celebrations, but a VAR check confirmed that Virgil van Dijk played him onside – it was the Welshman’s sixth goal of the season.

Liverpool continued to have the bulk of the ball but failed to test home goalkeeper Bernd Leno in the first half.

The visitors started the second half strongly with Alexis Mac Allister’s header from a corner striking the woodwork, and in the 57th minute they got their reward as Conor Bradley made a dazzling run before teeing up Wirtz, who finished with a left-footed strike past Leno.

The flag went up again, but after another lengthy VAR check Wirtz was adjudged to be onside and a goal was given, much to the fury of the home support.

Wilson hit the crossbar in the 77th minute as both sides pushed for a winner, and Liverpool looked to have won it when Gakpo bundled in in front of an ecstatic away end – but Reed smashed in his first goal since 2023 to send Craven Cottage wild.

Norway international Haaland got his landmark goal in the 17th minute of Tuesday’s game at Craven Cottage, firing in first time from Jeremy Doku’s cross.

It meant he reached the century in 111 league games, 13 fewer than it took previous record holder Alan Shearer.

The goal also ended a mini drought for Haaland, having gone three consecutive games without scoring. It was his 15th goal in 14 league games this season but was just a taste of what was to come.

Haaland got the assist for Manchester City’s second, slipping the ball through for Tijjani Reijnders to coolly lift the ball over Bernd Leno and into the back of the net.

Leeds came back from 2-0 down to level 2-2 against Pep Guardiola’s side at the weekend before Phil Foden got a late winner, and the in-form forward must have thought he had quashed thoughts of a repeat of that when he got City’s third.

A fantastic header by Emile Smith Rowe moments later gave Fulham some hope at 3-1 down, but Foden got his fourth goal in two games soon after the break, smartly firing home at the near post from Haaland’s ball.

Doku’s shot then deflected in off Sander Berge to put City in a seemingly unassailable 5-1 lead.

But Fulham would not give in and Alex Iwobi curled in their second from 20 yards to signal a continuing threat to City, before substitute Samuel Chukwueze had the home side dreaming of an incredible comeback.

First, he drove in from a cross, before placing a neat finish into the back of the net six minutes later.

Momentum was with Fulham as home fans roared them on and City’s followers watched on nervously in the away end, and Josh King had a shot cleared off the line in the final seconds.

But City held on to secure a win that means they are just two points behind Arsenal, albeit having played a game more, with the Gunners hosting Brentford on Wednesday.

Fulham, meanwhile, are six points above the relegation zone but have played a game more than those sides below them.

Mikel Arteta came into the match without captain Martin Odegaard and named Eberechi Eze in his place as the manager looked to make the most of the attacking talent at his disposal.

However, it was the home side who started brightest and Fulham went close through Harry Wilson and Josh King, who had an effort tipped over the bar by David Raya.

Arsenal grew into the game and Riccardo Calafiori had an excellently worked goal ruled out for offside.

The Gunners started the second half with more intensity and pinned Fulham back for large parts.

That pressure told in the 58th minute when centre-back Gabriel flicked on a Bukayo Saka corner and Trossard was well positioned to fire home from close range at the back post.

Saka thought he had won a penalty to give Arsenal the chance to double their lead, but the decision was overturned by the video assistant referee (VAR).

The victory means Arsenal move three points clear of second-placed Manchester City – who were top for a couple of hours on Saturday after beating Everton – with Liverpool four behind in third. Arne Slot’s side host Manchester United on Sunday (16:30 BST).

Semenyo was at the heart of Bournemouth’s 3-1 comeback victory, scoring twice and assisting Kluivert to help the Cherries climb to second in the Premier League, just a point behind leaders Liverpool.

The 25-year-old has been instrumental to Bournemouth’s impressive start to the season, stepping up after the summer departures of several senior players.

“He is incredible. He is showing it every game now. He is world-class, and we are glad to have him. We are a good team, and he’s the one who scores goals,” Kluivert said.

Semenyo opened the scoring with a moment of individual brilliance, gliding past Fulham defenders on the left before calmly finishing past goalkeeper Bernd Leno.

He then turned provider, setting up Kluivert to put Bournemouth ahead, before sealing the win with a composed left-footed strike deep into stoppage time.

So far this season, Semenyo has tallied six goals and three assists, cementing his growing influence at the Vitality Stadium.

Semenyo stole the spotlight at the Vitality Stadium, scoring a second-half brace to overturn a deficit after Ryan Sessegnon had put the visitors ahead.

His contribution also included an assist for Justin Kluivert’s spectacular goal, helping the Cherries secure all three points and climb to second place in the Premier League standings.

Speaking after the match, Iraola highlighted Semenyo’s confidence and steady development.

“He is a player with confidence; he is growing every season. He has earned his way to the Premier League and is improving and improving,” he said.

“He is adding things to his game. I hope he can get even better. I’m trying to make him not on the numbers, he won’t be better because he scores one goal more, because he helps the team more,” he added.

Semenyo’s impressive form this season has seen him net six goals so far.

He now turns his focus to international duty, preparing to represent Ghana in the final round of 2026 World Cup qualifiers against the Central African Republic and Comoros later this month.

The game appeared destined for a stalemate after a goalless first half, but Fulham’s Ryan Sessegnon broke the deadlock early in the second half.

Bournemouth responded in spectacular fashion, with Semenyo scoring twice and Justin Kluivert adding a stunning third to propel the home side to second place in the Premier League standings.

Reflecting on his performance, Semenyo expressed gratitude for his current run of form.

“It was a bit of a dull first-half, but the head coach told us at half-time to get as many shots in as we can,” he stated. “We conceded, which was frustrating, but we built up and built up and yeah, the win came.

Describing his goals, Semenyo added: “When I got the ball for my goal, I knew I was going to beat my man. I looked up, and there were no options to cross, so the next thought process was trying to get it through the keeper’s legs, and it was executed perfectly.

“I’m really happy with it. The second goal was different, I had to get my head down and run, see if I could support, I thought Ben was going to go by himself!”

The 25-year-old Ghana international credited his performances to faith as well as hard work.

“I was tired, but needed to be calm, and Ben did really well to pick me out. I don’t think it’s a surprise to people internally that we are doing well. We’ll keep pushing and see what happens.

“I’d like to think I’m playing the best football of my career and I thank God massively, I’m reaping the rewards now and I thank him always,” he added.

Semenyo’s latest exploits bring his season tally to six goals and three assists, further cementing his status as a key figure for Bournemouth.

His form has also earned him a place in Ghana head coach Otto Addo’s 24-man squad for this month’s decisive 2026 World Cup qualifiers against the Central African Republic and Comoros.

After a goalless first half, Fulham’s Ryan Sessegnon put the visitors ahead, but Semenyo turned the game on its head with a brace, complemented by a strike from Justin Kluivert, securing a memorable victory for the home side.

Reflecting on his first goal, the 25-year-old told Premier League Production: “I was thinking, just beat the full-back. Get down the by-line, maybe cross it. But all the options were blocked, and I was looking at the keeper’s legs. Execution was right, great finish.

“I’m just playing with confidence, enjoying playing with this team. Loving every moment.”

“What an evening. I can’t even explain what’s going on, this feeling. Going second, going into the international break. It’s an achievement for us, we’ve just got to keep going,” he added.

The win elevates Andoni Iraola’s side to second place in the Premier League with 14 points.

Semenyo, now with six goals and three assists this season, continues to shine as one of the league’s standout performers.

His impressive form has also earned him a call-up to Otto Addo’s 24-man Ghana squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against the Central African Republic and Comoros.

The contest remained goalless until the 70th minute when Ryan Sessegnon fired the visitors ahead. The goal, however, sparked a spirited response from the Cherries.

Semenyo equalised in spectacular fashion, rifling home a stunning effort to bring Bournemouth level.

The Ghana forward then turned provider just seven minutes later, setting up Justin Kluivert to put the hosts 2-1 in front.

With Fulham pushing forward in search of a late equaliser, Bournemouth sealed victory deep into stoppage time.

A swift counter-attack ended with Semenyo bagging his second of the night to complete a brace and cap a memorable display.

The result lifted Bournemouth to second place in the Premier League table on 14 points, underlining their strong start to the campaign.

For Semenyo, the night marked another milestone in his blistering form this season, taking his tally to six goals and three assists.

The 25-year-old’s performances have also earned him a place in Otto Addo’s 24-man Ghana squad for this month’s decisive 2026 World Cup qualifiers against the Central African Republic and Comoros.

The Ghana striker has been in fine form this season, registering four goals and two assists for the Cherries.

However, Silva insists Bournemouth’s attacking strength goes beyond the in-form striker.

“When I say physical side, not talking about the size of the team, [but] physical the way they approach, physical the way they challenge every single moment of the game,” he said.

“It’s not just him-Semenyo- If you look at the solutions they have in the frontline, it’s not just him. Of course, he’s in a good moment. Last season was very good for him as well.

“I think they are much more than just Semenyo. We have to be aware of them as a team, and not just one player,” Silva added.

Kick-off at the Vitality Stadium is scheduled for 19:00 GMT.

The England striker had not scored in his previous nine games, the joint-worst run of his Villa career, but his equaliser gave Villa the platform for victory.

John McGinn and substitute Emi Buendia – his first Villa goal for a year – scored twice in two minutes just after the break to put the game beyond Fulham.

Raul Jimenez’s header had given the visitors a third-minute lead but the striker was forced off injured soon after.

The Cottagers – who have won just one of their past 22 league games at Villa Park – faded after a strong start. That allowed Villa, who again looked poor for the majority of the first half, back into the game.

Ezri Konsa cleared off the line from Sasa Lukic as Fulham looked to recover from their nightmare start to the second half but by then Villa had taken control.

Josh King scored 22 minutes into the game only for it to be chalked off following a VAR intervention for a foul by Rodrigo Muniz in the build-up.

Muniz was deemed to have stepped on the foot of Chelsea centre-back Trevoh Chalobah while trying to turn him near the halfway line.

“After review, Fulham Number 9 commits a careless challenge, stands on the foot of the Chelsea defender, therefore we disallow the goal and we restart with a Chelsea free-kick,” referee Robert Jones told the Stamford Bridge crowd.

To make matters worse for Fulham, Chelsea’s opening goal in their 2-0 victory came nine minutes into eight minutes stoppage time at the end of the first half.

Referees chief Howard Webb has spoken to Fulham and declared the decision was an error.

He said the decision to rule out the goal did not reach the high bar of a VAR intervention as it was not a clear and obvious error by the referee and should have been a ‘referees’ call’ instead.

As a result, referees’ body PGMOL has replaced Salisbury with John Brooks for the Sunday’s match at Anfield.

Fulham manager Marco Silva was furious with the officials after the defeat, describing the decision to disallow the goal as “unbelievable”.

“How you disallow a goal like that is unbelievable,” Silva told TNT Sports after the game, which left Fulham winless after three Premier League matches.

“We have meetings with referees and people in charge, we all want to win. VAR is not here to re-referee the game.

“I would prefer not to say something more because I would be punished. I want to be on the touchline next week to help my team, I don’t want to be fined.

“But it has been a difficult start to the season with some decisions.”

It was the second Premier League home game in a row that Chelsea have benefited from a VAR intervention, after Eberechi Eze’s free-kick in a 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace was disallowed on the opening weekend because Marc Guehi was deemed to have interfered with the wall.

Burnley boss Scott Parker said the use of VAR was threatening to turn football into “the most sterile game there is” after his side lost to a controversial late penalty at Manchester United.

Ruben Amorim’s team were awarded a penalty deep into second-half stoppage time when Jaidon Anthony was penalised for grabbing Amad Diallo’s shirt inside the area.

Referee Sam Barrott initially waved play on, but after reviewing the incident on the pitchside monitor he awarded the spot-kick and Bruno Fernandes held his nerve to earn the hosts a 3-2 victory.

“It’s the way the game has gone – quadruple checking everything every minute,” Parker told BBC Match of the Day.

“On the field, the referee didn’t give the foul, then we’ve re-reffed it. It’s not the ref, it’s a fella 200-odd miles away in a box.”

Joao Pedro headed the opener in first-half injury time to score his fifth goal in five starts across all competitions since his £55m move from Brighton, with midfielder Enzo Fernandez scoring a second-half penalty.

However, referee Robert Jones took centre stage after making several controversial decisions.

The first ruled out Fulham midfielder Josh King’s goal in the 21st minute. His team-mate Rodrigo Muniz was judged to have stepped on Trevoh Chalobah in the build-up by the video assistant referee (VAR) Michael Salisbury.

Jones confirmed the decision after viewing the pitchside monitor but there appeared to be minimal contact in what also looked a natural action by striker Muniz, while playing with his back to goal.

Joao Pedro further punished Fulham, who dominated the first 45 minutes, by scoring a header from Fernandez’s corner with the final action of the half.

Fernandez then scored from the penalty spot to seal victory after Ryan Sessegnon was judged to have handled the ball in the penalty area.

It was a difficult decision for the officials but again went in Chelsea’s favour as Fulham manager Marco Silva fumed at referee Jones.

Chelsea secured an important victory before the international break despite losing striker Liam Delap to a hamstring injury early in the first half.

A Rodrigo Muniz own goal had given Ruben Amorim’s side the lead after 58 minutes, but substitute Emile Smith Rowe equalised with his first touch to earn Fulham a point.

United nearly took the lead after just three minutes, with Matheus Cunha striking the post after Mason Mount did well to pick out the Brazilian in the box.

Bruno Fernandes squandered a huge chance for United to take the lead towards the end of the first half, firing a penalty way over the bar, his fifth spot-kick miss in the Premier League.

Amorim’s side were awarded the penalty for Calvin Bassey holding Mason Mount in the box, following a VAR review, but United’s captain could not convert, much to the disbelief of Craven Cottage and his manager.

The visitors took the lead early in the second half when Lenny Yoro latched on to Bryan Mbeumo’s corner and his header diverted off Muniz and past Bernd Leno in the Fulham goal.

Yoro had originally been awarded a first Premier League goal, but the replay showed it was clear that his header was going wide before it hit the Fulham striker.

Marco Silva’s side fought back though, and Smith Rowe capitalised on Matthijs De Ligt leaving a cross, to poke home with his first touch of the match.

Both sides pushed for a winner, with Fulham looking the more likely to find one late on, but the points were shared.

Despite United creating plenty of chances and dominating large periods of the game, they were denied a first win of the season, as pressure continues to mount on Amorim ahead of their midweek Carabao Cup trip to Grimsby Town.

Fulham also remain winless with two points from their opening two matches and host Bristol City in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday.

The Brazilian fired home from close range in the 96th minute after Harry Wilson’s corner as Marco Silva’s side stunned the hosts, who led through Matt O’Riley’s penalty.

The former Celtic midfielder gave Brighton a 55th-minute lead, firing into the bottom corner from the spot after Georginio Rutter was fouled by Sander Berge.

The hosts had created earlier chances to open the scoring, with Kaoru Mitoma heading a delivery from O’Riley just over the bar.

After O’Riley struck, Lewis Dunk headed into the side netting and Yasin Ayari shot just wide, but Brighton were unable to increase their advantage – and substitute Muniz snatched a last-gasp point for the visitors.

Fulham’s teenage midfielder Josh King looked lively early on and the 18-year-old went down in the box having gone past Jan Paul van Hecke and Bart Verbruggen, but his appeals were waved away following a VAR check.

Unai Emery’s side were beaten 3-0 at Wembley last time out but put that disappointment behind them with a hard-fought victory.

It moves them level on points with Chelsea, who occupy the fifth and final Champions League spot, and sixth-placed Nottingham Forest.

After an even opening, Villa took the lead after 12 minutes when the influential Youri Tielemans directed a firm header past Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno from John McGinn’s inswinging corner.

Ollie Watkins should have made it 2-0 early in the second half but failed to get a decisive touch on Matty Cash’s low cross.

Fulham were denied an equaliser not long afterwards when Ryan Sessegnon had a low left-footed drive disallowed for handball.

Leno then denied Watkins with his legs after Morgan Rogers picked out the striker with an exquisite pass, and Donyell Malen rattled the crossbar with a fierce strike late on, but Fulham were unable to trouble Emiliano Martinez at the other end.

The result means Marco Silva’s Fulham side stay in eighth place, but the Cottagers could end the weekend in the bottom half of the table if other results go against them.

Having failed to win in their previous eight Premier League away trips, Chelsea’s travel woes seemed set to continue when Alex Iwobi fired Fulham into a first-half lead.

The hosts held that advantage for more than an hour but 19-year-old George came off the bench to score his first league goal with a fine first-time strike from the edge of the area.

And, in virtually a carbon copy of December’s thrilling finale at Stamford Bridge, when Fulham scored twice late on to snatch a 2-1 win, it was the Blues’ turn to complete a stirring comeback in stoppage time.

Neto spun on a sixpence in the Fulham area to hit an unstoppable half-volley that flew past Cottagers keeper Bernd Leno and spark wild celebrations among the travelling support.

The win lifts Chelsea back into the Champions League qualification places in fifth on goal difference from Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa, while Fulham remain ninth as their own dreams of securing European football suffered a shattering blow.

The 25-year-old wasted no time, finding the back of the net just 53 seconds into the match. Semenyo outpaced Antonee Robinson on the right flank before curling a low shot beyond Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno into the bottom-left corner.

The goal—his eighth in the Premier League this season—marked his first since January 25, when he scored against Nottingham Forest.

Semenyo’s energetic display was met with a standing ovation as he made way in the 90th minute for Argentine midfielder Soler, a recent signing from Lanús.

Bournemouth came close to doubling their lead when Evanilson struck the post, but Semenyo’s early effort ultimately proved enough to secure the Cherries’ first home win since January, ending a six-game winless run.

Fulham, meanwhile, suffered their third consecutive away defeat in the league. Both teams remain six points adrift of Aston Villa, who currently occupy the final automatic European qualification spot.

Bournemouth will be looking to build on the momentum when they face Crystal Palace next at Selhurst Park.

Arne Slot’s side had gone ahead through Alexis Mac Allister’s superb 25-yard strike but three Fulham goals in 13 minutes turned the game on its head before half-time.

Ryan Sessegnon equalised with a smart first-time finish after Andreas Pereira’s cross fell kindly for him in the box.

Alex Iwobi put Marco Silva’s side ahead nine minutes later as he collected Liverpool full-back Andy Robertson’s poor cross-field ball on the edge of the box and, after his initial shot was blocked, his second flew in via a deflection off the Scotland captain.

The third came when a Fulham corner was only cleared to the edge of the box, Iwobi made of a mess of his attempt to put it back into the middle but Rodrigo Muniz kept it alive.

A brilliant touch around the corner put him through on goal and the Brazilian striker finished calmly under Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher.

Luis Diaz pulled one back for the visitors in the 72nd minute, stabbing into the bottom corner from fellow substitute Conor Bradley’s pass, but Liverpool were unable to force an equaliser.

It was another substitute, Harvey Elliott, who came closest to drawing the league leaders level but his curling effort bounced back off the bar.

Elliott and Federico Chiesa had half chances in stoppage time but neither unduly troubled Bernd Leno in the Fulham goal.

Liverpool stay 11 points clear at the top with seven games remaining and need a maximum of 11 more points to secure a record-equalling 20th league title.

Meanwhile, victory boosts Fulham’s chances of European qualification as they move up to eighth, five points behind Chelsea in fourth.

The England forward came off the bench in the second half, with the score at 1-0, and showed Arsenal what they have missed during his absence, heading in Gabriel Martinelli’s flick at the far post on 73 minutes.

Mikel Merino had given the Gunners the lead in the 37th minute when his shot was deflected into the corner after Ethan Nwaneri’s cut-back.

Rodrigo Muniz pulled a goal back for Fulham in stoppage time when his shot was deflected by William Saliba and wrong-footed goalkeeper David Raya.

The win moved Arsenal to within nine points of runaway leaders Liverpool.

It was a mixed night for the Gunners though who, despite the positive of having Saka back from his serious hamstring injury, lost centre-back Gabriel early in the first half, which is a worry for manager Mikel Arteta with a Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid next week.

Fulham defended deep throughout the match but should have pulled one back much earlier when substitute Muniz headed wide from six yards out with the goal gaping.

Arsenal take on Everton on Saturday in the Premier League before preparing for the first leg of their quarter-final against Real at home on Tuesday.

The England international had surgery on a hamstring problem suffered in Arsenal’s Premier League win over Crystal Palace on 21 December.

Saka, who has scored nine goals and contributed 10 assists in 24 games in all competitions for Arsenal this season, could feature in Tuesday’s league meeting with Fulham at Emirates Stadium.

“Bukayo Saka is ready to go,” said Arteta.

“All the careful things are already done. Now it’s about putting him on the grass at the right moment, but he’s pushing because he really wants to.

“We have respected the timeline and we have done everything.

“Bukayo is a massive weapon that we have. We know the impact he has in the team and how important his role and contribution is to our success.”

Arsenal are second in the Premier League, 12 points behind leaders Liverpool with nine games remaining.

Defender Riccardo Calafiori faces a spell on the sidelines with a knee injury sustained on international duty for Italy against Germany on 20 March.

“It could have been much worse,” said Arteta.

“Hopefully it’s going to be a matter of weeks, but we have to see how the injury evolves.”

Andrea Berta, Arsenal’s new sporting director, was present at Monday’s news conference after he was named as Edu’s successor this week.

Arteta said the Italian Berta had “many options” from other clubs but was “positive” about joining Arsenal.

Fulham were on top for the first 30 minutes but could not take advantage of the dominance, with Rodrigo Muniz going closest for the home side.

The Eagles could barely get out of their half, before Eberechi Eze gave the visitors the lead against the run of play with an excellent strike in the 34th minute.

The England international cut in from the left and curled a beautiful low shot around Leno and in off the far post.

Eze, who scored his first England goal against Latvia in the recent international break, then had a huge part to play in the second goal when his cross was headed in at the near post by Ismaila Sarr.

Willian forced Dean Henderson into a good save but Marco Silva’s side couldn’t find a way back into the match, before Eddie Nketiah added a third, slotting the ball through Leno’s legs.

The win means Palace have won their last five matches in a row in all competitions and are in the last four of the FA Cup for the first time since 2022.

Pedro won the penalty for his side after beating Fulham’s Harrison Reed to the ball and taking a challenge on the back of the ankle.

The Brazilian dispatched the spot-kick into the corner to score for a third successive game – the first time he has achieved that feat in the Premier League – and deliver a crucial three points for the hosts.

Raul Jimenez had put Fulham in front with a well-taken volley after some neat chest control at the far post but Brighton struck back six minutes later through Jan Paul van Hecke.

Both teams played 120 minutes when securing their place in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup last Sunday, with Brighton beating Newcastle and Fulham seeing off Manchester United, and fatigue may have played a part in a largely uneventful first half at Amex Stadium.

Brighton showed a slight improvement in the second half and had two goals ruled out for offside before eventually grabbing the winner.

The victory moves Brighton up to sixth and just one point adrift of Manchester City who are fourth and in the final guaranteed Champions League spot.

Fulham, who had not lost against Brighton in nine previous encounters, stay ninth, four points further back.

The Cottagers goalkeeper saved from Victor Lindelof and Joshua Zirkzee as Marco Silva’s men triumphed 4-3 on spot kicks after the tie had finished 1-1 following 90 minutes and extra time.

A turgid first 45 ended on a high note for the visitors as Calvin Bassey pounced at the far post to nod home a flick-on from a right-wing corner.

United toiled in search of an equaliser and pulled level to force extra time when Bruno Fernandes netted his eighth FA Cup goal in his last 12 outings in the competition.

The hosts brought on 17-year-old forward Chido Obi and he had a couple of chances to win it, but Fulham held on to take the tie to what proved to be a triumphant shoot-out.

Next up, United switch focus to their UEFA Europa League last 16 clash at Real Sociedad on Thursday prior to hosting Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday.

Fulham visit Brighton on Saturday and can look forward to an FA Cup quarter-final tie at home to Crystal Palace on the weekend of March 28-31.

The London visitors started the game with a bang as Ryan Sessegnon, making his first Premier League start in two years, scored within a minute of kick-off, finishing well after being played in down the left by Andreas Pereira.

Wolves responded with a string of chances and equalised on 18 minutes when a loose ball dropped to an unmarked Joao Gomes in the box, and a hard-fought match was at level pegging at the break.

However, Fulham came flying out of the traps once again after the restart, with Adama Traore playing in the excellent Rodrigo Muniz, who finished superbly with a chip past the onrushing Jose Sa from just outside of the box.

Wolves had more of the ball and more attempts on goal in the game, but it was Fulham who created the better of the chances on the break and Marco Silva’s side withstood some heavy late pressure to pick up three points that moves them to within two points of fifth-placed Manchester City.

Defeat leaves Wolves still under threat of relegation, with both Ipswich Town and Leicester City playing later in the week with the chance to reduce the gap to two points in the scrap to avoid the drop.

The 36-year-old will wear the No 22 shirt and returns to the Premier League club for a third time.

He departed Olympiacos at the end of December.

As Willian was a free agent the Brazilian’s move did not need to be completed before Monday’s 23:00 GMT transfer deadline.

“I think it’s a great opportunity again to play for this club, and I’m fully motivated to get on the pitch and do things well for this club,” Willian said on Fulham’s website.

“I’m completely happy, my family’s happy. We are happy to be back, and I think we can do good things until the end of the season, so I can’t wait to start with my teammates and do good things inside the pitch.”

Willian is no stranger to Premier League fans, having previously had spells with Chelsea, Arsenal and Fulham, most significantly with the Blues where he won two Premier League titles.

He was at Chelsea for seven years between 2013 and 2020, winning five major honours before joining Arsenal, spending the 2020/21 season at Emirates Stadium.

Willian had a brief spell with Brazil side Corinthians before his switch to Fulham in September 2022, where he made 67 appearances in all competitions, scoring 10 goals in two seasons.

In the Premier League, Willian has played 317 times and scored 47 goals which includes the February 2023 and January 2018 Goal of the Month awards.

Willian could feature for Fulham in the FA Cup this Saturday when Marco Silva’s side travel to League One Wigan Athletic for a fourth-round tie.

The Cottagers’ next Premier League match is the following weekend, Saturday 15 February, when they host Nottingham Forest.

A point for the Magpies would have sent them above Manchester City, who visit Arsenal on Sunday, 2 February.

But substitute Rodrigo Muniz completed a fine Fulham turnaround in the 82nd minute after he got the deftest of touches on Andreas Pereira’s dangerous free-kick into the box.

After falling behind in the first half to Jacob Murphy’s 37th-minute opener, the Cottagers levelled in the 61st minute when Raul Jimenez turned in Antonee Robinson’s cross, with the help of a deflection.

The Magpies started well and led when Murphy was found by Anthony Gordon’s deflected cross, allowing the winger to slot home his fourth goal of the season.

A minute prior to the opener, Sandro Tonali made St James’ Park gasp after his thunderous 30-yard hit struck the upright.

Fulham defended expertly to keep the in-form Alexander Isak quiet until the 76th minute when he cut inside from the left and curled a lovely effort off the upright – almost making it 2-1 to Newcastle.

It was the first time in a year Newcastle have been beaten for two games on the spin at home in the league as Fulham completed their first top-flight double over the Magpies since 2008-09.

Marco Silva’s side moved up to ninth in a tight Premier League table as they sit just five points adrift of Newcastle in fifth.

The Argentine defender’s speculative 25-yard effort took a wicked nick off Sasa Lukic that looped over Bernd Leno 12 minutes from time.

It was the visitors’ only shot on target in a match of few opportunities and lifts The Red Devils – who see boss Amorim turn 40 on Monday – up to 12th spot in the Premier League standings.

Fulham had the better of the first half and went close through Alex Iwobi, but struggled to create much of note following the interval.

The home side had hoped to extend a six-match unbeaten run on home turf, but were thwarted late on as United substitute Toby Collyer cleared Joachim Andersen’s header off the line.

It means Fulham sit in 10th place, eight points adrift of the top five. Improving United are four points further back.

Leicester, who remain 19th in the table, have lost seven of the nine league games the Dutchman has been in charge for.

On his 100th appearance in the Premier League, Emile Smith Rowe opened the scoring for the visitors just after half-time with a brave diving header.

Harry Wilson’s ball across the box was flicked on by Sasa Lukic and the former Arsenal midfielder threw himself in front of Jakub Stolarczyk to score his fourth of the season.

Substitute Adama Traore secured the points for Marco Silva’s side in the 68th minute when his brilliant side-footed volley flew past Stolarczyk into the bottom corner.

Boos, and shouts of “you don’t know what you’re doing”, were aimed at Van Nistelrooy when he substituted forward Bilal el Khannouss in the second half.

After Smith Rowe’s opener, Raul Jimenez missed a huge opportunity to double Fulham’s lead but he could only direct his header wide.

Both teams had a case for a penalty, with Boubakary Soumare going down for Leicester before Traore’s appeals were waved away.

Substitute Rodrigo Muniz looked to make it 3-0 with minutes to play but his effort went the wrong side of the post.

The Foxes remain on 14 points – two points adrift of safety – and face a trip to Tottenham next, while Fulham move up to ninth.

The Blues were stunned by two late Fulham strikes as substitutes Harry Wilson and Rodrigo Muniz cancelled out Cole Palmer’s first-half strike to seal a 2-1 win.

The latter’s 95th-minute strike (94:15) was the latest winning goal against Chelsea in the Premier League since Pedro Neto for Wolves in December 2020 (94:44), while it is the first time the Blues have conceded a 90th-minute winner at home in the competition since February 2003.

It is also the first time since October 1999 that Chelsea have lost a Premier League game in which they were leading as late as the 82nd minute when they lost 3-2 to Arsenal.

Chelsea could have moved within a point of leaders Liverpool with a win, but instead sit four points behind them in second, and Maresca admitted there are lessons to be learnt after their unbeaten streak was ended.

“The first 10-15 minutes of the second half, we conceded too many transitions,” he told Amazon Prime. “We could control the second half much better.

“Then I think the game was there and, unfortunately, we conceded in the last minutes. We can manage better the game. We concede too many transitions second half. They are very good in transition.

“It is a game that we can learn many things from.”

Asked if they had missed a chance in the title race, Maresca added: “No [not a chance missed]. This is just a game that unfortunately we lost. It is just a matter of: recover energy and try to go again in three days.”

Meanwhile, Marco Silva was in high spirits after Fulham earned their first-ever Premier League win at Chelsea.

It was their first win at Stamford Bridge since October 1979, with Fulham failing to win any of their previous 17 trips to Chelsea in the Premier League (D6 L11).

After falling behind early on, Fulham kept the pressure on, having 14 shots worth 1.32 expected goals (xG) compared to 12 attempts for Chelsea, who created 0.95 xG.

“It is a privilege to give our fans this happiness,” Silva told Amazon Prime. “I was questioning the length of time it has been since Fulham won here.

“We spoke before the match about why it is going to be important to give good feelings to our fans. Their happiness is everything.

“We deserved the three points. We want to finish top half of the table and improve on last season. Let’s see where we are going to finish. That is clearly our aim. We are going to fight for it.”

Chelsea looked to be maintaining the pressure on Premier League pace-setters Liverpool as they defended a lead given to them by Cole Palmer’s smooth 16th-minute strike.

Fulham, however, never took a backward step and were rewarded in the most dramatic fashion with two late goals as Chelsea’s title aspirations suffered a serious setback.

Marco Silva’s Fulham substitutions worked to perfection, first when Harry Wilson headed the equaliser after 82 minutes before Muniz steered a low finish past Chelsea keeper Robert Sanchez in the 95th minute.

Chelsea were never comfortable, even after Palmer’s strike which was his 26th Premier League goal in the calendar year, breaking the Chelsea record set by Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink in 2001.

Fulham were relentless in pursuit of at least a point and got full value for their ambition, securing their first win at Stamford Bridge in 45 years.

Jota, sidelined with injury since October, slotted in an 86th-minute leveller after Rodrigo Muniz looked to have ended the Reds’ second-half resistance.

Cody Gakpo’s header from Mohamed Salah’s sublime cross shortly after half-time had cancelled out Andreas Pereira’s 11th-minute opener.

Six minutes after Pereira volleyed Fulham ahead, Liverpool’s task became even tougher when Robertson was dismissed for denying Harry Wilson a goalscoring opportunity.

While Fulham centre-back Issa Diop had earlier escaped with a booking for a high challenge on the offside Robertson, there was no such fortune for the Liverpool left-back and a lengthy video assistant referee (VAR) review confirmed Wilson was onside before pouncing on his mistake.

After Wilson fizzed the resulting free-kick narrowly over Alisson’s goal, Liverpool reset and continued to cause Fulham problems – but Luis Diaz headed over the hosts’ best chance before half-time.

However, a re-energised Liverpool stormed out of the blocks in the second half and Gakpo’s instant leveller after the restart sparked the Anfield crowd into life.

Fulham’s failure to capitalise on their numerical advantage fuelled Liverpool’s belief and Salah twice went close to completing the turnaround but could not find the target before Muniz delivered a sucker punch.

There was to be one final twist late in an enthralling contest when Jota marked his return with a fine finish to set up a chaotic, breathless conclusion, with both sides made to settle for a point.

After a thrilling 3-3 draw with Newcastle 10 days ago, Liverpool’s title rivals were able to make up further ground after last weekend’s Merseyside derby against Everton was postponed by severe weather.

But they extended their lead over Chelsea, who host Brentford on Sunday, to five points after third-place Arsenal were held to a goalless draw by Everton.

Bukayo Saka thought he had given the Gunners all three points when he headed in Gabriel Martinelli’s cross two minutes from time, but the goal was disallowed after the Brazilian was found to be offside during the build-up.

Raul Jimenez, with his sixth goal of the season, put Fulham in front against the run of play when he latched on to Kenny Tete’s ball down the line to fire past David Raya from a tight angle.

Arsenal, looking to capitalise on the postponement of Liverpool’s Merseyside derby against Everton on Saturday, struggled to carve out opportunities from open play in the first half and managed just one shot on target from Saka.

But Mikel Arteta’s side were level within six minutes of the second half after a well-worked corner kick routine saw William Saliba convert Kai Havertz’s knockdown.

It was one-way traffic after that as Arsenal pushed to find a winner but they struggled to break down a resolute Fulham side.

The draw means Arsenal are six points behind leaders Liverpool, having played a game more.

Spurs, who were missing several key players through injury and suspension, had to withstand severe pressure before taking a 54th-minute lead through Brennan Johnson.

The Wales forward volleyed home his sixth league goal of the season from close range after being teed up by Timo Werner’s cross.

But Fulham, who had the better chances in the game, deservedly equalised 13 minutes later through captain Tom Cairney, who was then sent off with seven minutes left for a late challenge on the back of Dejan Kulusevski’s leg.

Cairney, who had only just come on as a substitute, lashed a first-time left-footed shot home from 18 yards after being picked out by Alex Iwobi.

Spurs, who beat Manchester City 4-0 last week and are the Premier League’s top scorers, have now failed to win back-to-back games in their last eight matches.

After missing a golden chance after just 50 seconds when Son Heung-min pounced on a loose Fulham pass but was denied by Bernd Leno, the hosts struggled to create many opportunities.

James Maddison hit the post with a clever free-kick under the wall, but Fulham came close as Iwobi’s drive shortly before the interval flicked off Ben Davies and hit the crossbar, while Fraser Forster made a string of saves to deny the visitors.

Spurs missed first-choice striker Dominic Solanke, not in the squad after manager Ange Postecoglou said he “felt a bit sore” following the midweek Europa League draw against Roma.

And key forward Kulusevski, who had created more chances than any other player in the league before today, was on the bench as Postecoglou rotated his squad. The Swede was sent on after Fulham’s equaliser as Spurs chased a winner.

But they could not find it as they drew at home for the second time in a week after their 2-2 stalemate with Roma on Thursday. It was also their first league draw since the opening day of the season.

City dominated the early stages before Raul Jimenez’s outstanding backheel cross enabled Andreas Pereira to score from close range.

Adama Traore missed two big chances either side of that – being denied by Ederson in a one-on-one and then skying a shot from inside the box.

And City midfielder Kovacic made him pay.

His first was a first-time effort from a half-cleared corner that went in via a deflection.

And his second, shortly into the second half, was a much cleaner strike from the edge of the area.

There was almost a twist, as Traore beat Kyle Walker for pace before again shooting at Ederson.

In fact, City conceded several more chances before Jeremy Doku drifted in from the left and crashed a fantastic strike into the far top corner.

At that stage you thought surely City were home and dry but they left substitute Rodrigo Muniz free in the box to give Fulham renewed hope late on.

But Marco Silva’s side could not muster an equaliser.

City are now unbeaten in 50 home games in all competitions, the fourth English top-flight side to ever manage that.

Fulham took an early lead when Raul Jimenez’s sharp turn and finish tamely went past away keeper Nick Pope, just 44 seconds after Joelinton had a goal for Newcastle ruled out by an offside flag.

Summer signing Emile Smith Rowe continued his fine start at the Cottagers by doubling the lead after a slick move.

Newcastle, who mustered only one shot on target in an insipid first-half performance, narrowed the gap through Harvey Barnes within 28 seconds of the restart.

But while the Magpies posed much more threat, they were unable to find an equaliser as Fulham held out.

Fabian Schar came the closest when he blasted into the side-netting after capitalising on a slack pass by Fulham keeper Bernd Leno.

The home side had chances to restore their two-goal advantage in an even second half but did not seal victory until stoppage time.

Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes’ woeful clearance went straight to Reiss Nelson in the penalty area and the substitute emphatically fired in to secure Fulham’s second league win.

Newcastle drop to sixth in a Premier League table still shaping up on gameweek five, with Fulham moving up to eighth as their solid start continues.

The Ghana international was closely linked with Fulham and Everton on transfer deadline day. Fulham had agreed on a €19 million transfer fee with Lyon for Nuamah, but the move ultimately fell through.

According to French publication L’Equipe, Nuamah was unwilling to join Fulham and was emotionally distressed by Lyon’s pressure to finalize the transfer.

The report states that the former FC Nordsjaelland attacker broke down in tears when a Fulham delegation traveled to France to complete the deal.

However, Nuamah went missing during the medical examination, causing the transfer to collapse.

Lyon owner John Textor has reportedly sent Nuamah a message apologizing for attempting to force him into the move. Nuamah had joined Lyon on a permanent basis in July after a successful loan period with the club.

During his loan stint with Lyon last season, Nuamah made 33 appearances, scoring three goals and providing two assists.

His contributions helped the team climb from the relegation zone to qualify for the Europa League by finishing sixth.

Meanwhile, Ernest Nuamah has been excluded from Ghana’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Angola and Niger.

The 32-year-old signed a two-year contract with the Foxes on Friday, moving from Crystal Palace.

Leicester City’s head coach, Steve Cooper, brought Ayew on as a second-half substitute. The former Swansea City and Aston Villa forward replaced Bobby De Cordova-Reid on the left wing, contributing with a dribble and completing 83% of his passes.

Fulham took the lead in the 15th minute through Smith Rowe, but Leicester equalized in the 38th minute with a goal from Wout Faes, ending the first half at 1-1.

In the second half, Alex Iwobi’s 70th-minute strike secured the victory for Fulham.

Despite Ayew’s contributions, Leicester couldn’t find a way back into the game, allowing Fulham to hold on for the win.

Ayew will be aiming to secure a starting position in Leicester’s upcoming fixtures, including their EFL Cup match against Tranmere and a Premier League encounter with Aston Villa at the King Power Stadium.

The Norway international has penned a five-year deal at Craven Cottage and the club have the option of extending that by a further 12 months.

Fulham will pay an initial £20m for the midfielder, with a further £5m in add-ons.

Berge, 26, joined Burnley from Sheffield United in 2023 and was voted the Clarets’ player of the year as they were relegated to the Championship.

“It feels fantastic,” said Berge.

“It’s been a little bit back and forth the last few weeks, but I’m finally sitting here in the shirt in this beautiful stadium, knowing that my future is here, which feels great.”

The midfielder becomes Fulham’s fourth signing of the transfer window, following the arrivals of Emile Smith Rowe, Jorge Cuenca and Ryan Sessegnon.

Berge, who played 37 times for Burnley last season, has been left out of both of the Clarets’ Championship fixtures so far this term.

The midfielder has been capped 46 times by Norway.

Fulham host Leicester City on 24 August in their first home match of the Premier League season.

The former Bologna forward came on with Alejandro Garnacho after an hour as United struggled to find a breakthrough against Marco Silva’s side.

And the pair combined in the nick of time as the Argentina winger crossed from the right and Zirkzee calmly steered the ball into the bottom corner in a hammer blow for Fulham.

After a slow start, during which Andre Onana tipped an early Kenny Tete effort over, it was United who had carried the greater threat.

But three times they were denied by superb saves from Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno.

Twice United skipper Bruno Fernandes was repelled, the second stop bringing yells of frustration from the Portuguese midfielder. The third time it was Mason Mount who only had Leno to beat as Marcus Rashford crossed from the left.

In front of co-chair Avie Glazer, who was making a rare visit to this stadium, and new chief executive Omar Berrada, Fernandes curled another effort straight at Leno.

United were not to be denied though. Erik ten Hag might have said his side were not ready for the game. But they still managed to win it.

Dutch delight

The euphoria that accompanied the final whistle was in keeping with the optimism that surrounded United in the build-up to the game.

Zirkzee took the acclaim in such a calm manner it was reminiscent of another Dutchman, who has returned to these parts, in Ruud van Nistelrooy, who is now a senior figure in Ten Hag’s coaching team.

The home supporters sang the ex-United and Netherlands striker’s name as he made his way to the dressing rooms, confirmation of the status he still has at the club.

If Zirkzee gets anywhere close to the 150 goals in five seasons Van Nistelrooy managed for United, he will have done extremely well.

As it is, just like the 23-year-old’s illustrious fellow countryman, he scored on his Premier League debut against Fulham.

Any late nerves at Old Trafford should have been eased by Garnacho but he somehow managed to fire wide after being set up by Rashford.

When the elation subsides thanks will also be due to Harry Maguire, who managed to intervene when former United midfielder Andreas Pereira looked certain to send Alex Iwobi through on Onana’s goal midway through the second period, when the game was still deadlocked.

Fulham frustrations

It will be a frustrating trip back to London for Silva, whose side started brightly and came so close to securing a point.

Given the home side had lost to three of their main Premier League rivals in pre-season, still didn’t have an orthodox left-back and started without a central striker, United’s pre-match optimism didn’t appear to be based on the firmest of foundations.

Fulham duly exposed United’s weaknesses and for the first quarter of the game carried by far the greater threat.

Tete might have gone closest for the visitors but their most potent attacking weapon was Adama Traore.

The former Middlesbrough and Wolves winger can be a frustrating figure. He is one of the fastest, most direct players in the game and because of that, he is a major danger. But too often, the threat he poses peters out into very little.

It was the same here. Traore flew into the box, got himself into the perfect position to cut the ball back to a team-mate, and allowed the pass to be intercepted by United debutant Noussair Mazraoui.

He was off target with a decent chance not long afterwards and when he attacked the home goal for a third time, Lisandro Martinez stepped in to simply ease him away from the ball.

This all meant Fulham failed to make the most of their best spell and once Pereira contrived to blow one chance and Martinez was then allowed to snuff out the danger from what was initially a four-on-two counter, they were always at risk of a nasty late surprise.

New signings Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui will be in the squad but only arrived on Thursday.

They have had a limited chance to train with their new team-mates, leaving Ten Hag with a selection dilemma for the match at Old Trafford.

Meanwhile, defender Luke Shaw has been sidelined with a calf injury, new £52m defender Leny Yoro was ruled out for three months at the beginning of August, and forward Rasmus Hojlund has a hamstring problem.

United committed to spending close to £60m by bringing defenders De Ligt and Mazraoui to the club from Bayern Munich.

“The team is not ready but the league starts,” said Ten Hag.

“We can’t hide from it. We have to deal with it.”

United’s other summer signing, Netherlands striker Joshua Zirkee, was an unused substitute during the Community Shield defeat by Manchester City and could make his debut against Fulham.

Ten Hag has to solve a selection problem at left-back, with Shaw not fit because of a calf injury and Tyrell Malacia ruled out for another two months as he continues to recover from knee surgery.

Mazraoui could be one answer, while Diogo Dalot and Lisandro Martinez filled in during last Saturday’s Community Shield.

Despite there being selection issues, Ten Hag still expects to field a strong line-up.

“It’s not about the players who are not available,” the Dutchman said.

“It’s also what I said always last season: it’s about the players who are available and we have a good group, we can make a strong selection.”

Shaw has not featured for United since February, chiefly because of a hamstring injury, although he was eventually fit enough to play for England at Euro 2024.

Ten Hag is confident Shaw will be ready soon and is looking forward to him returning.

“He will return in the short term,” Ten Hag said. “It doesn’t take long.

“Luke is a very important player for our team so we want to get him back as soon as possible but we can’t force this process.”

While the Cottagers have not disclosed the total fee for the 24-year-old, it is understood the deal could rise to £34m with add-ons.

Smith Rowe, who joined Arsenal as a 10-year-old, made his senior debut for the Gunners at the age of 18 and made 80 Premier League appearances for the club, scoring 12 times.

He has three England caps, although his last came in March 2022.

“I’m finally here, so I’m really happy for me and my family – it’s a good moment,” said Smith Rowe.

“I’m really excited, I just wanted to get here as quickly as possible so I could get going with my team-mates.

“Listening to the project, speaking to the manager [Marco Silva], and seeing what players we have here already, I think it’s an exciting project for me, and definitely the perfect step for my career going forward.”

Fulham have also signed Ryan Sessegnon on a two-year deal after his contract expired at Tottenham and Cottagers vice-chairman Tony Khan said he was “thrilled” with the arrival of Smith Rowe.

“We’re very excited to sign such a talented young player, and we look forward to Emile joining the squad in Portugal as we continue to prepare for the new season ahead,” said Khan.

Fulham are also trying to sign Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay, having made a second bid, believed to be worth £20m, for the 27-year-old Scotland international.​​​​​​​

Overall, Smith Rowe made 115 senior outings for Arsenal in all competitions, scoring 18 goals and assisting 13 times.

He made his first-team bow for the Gunners in September 2018 when he became the first player born in the 2000s to debut for the club.

“Emile’s commitment, attitude and energy every day was first class, always stepping up when the team needed him,” said Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta.

“He came into the first team and was instrumental during a difficult moment for us. He created an important impression, with his strong performances making our supporters proud.

“I’m sad that Emile is leaving us, but excited for him to take this new opportunity at this stage of his career, when he needs to be starting matches and playing regularly.

“Emile is loved by everyone at the club and leaves us with our gratitude, absolute respect and best wishes. We all wish Emile and his family well at Fulham.”

It is anticipated United will reject the offer but the Scotland international’s future is again uncertain after West Ham tried to sign him last summer.

The Old Trafford club are trying to generate funds to buy new players and the injuries to defender Leny Yoro, who is set to miss three months, and striker Rasmus Hojlund heighten the issue.

McTominay is moving into the prime years of his career and wants to be a first-team regular.

Although the 27-year-old made 32 Premier League appearances for United last season, 14 of them were from the bench, although he did start the FA Cup final victory over Manchester City at Wembley.

McTominay featured in the number 10 role in Wednesday night’s pre-season win over Real Betis in San Diego.

However, with Bruno Fernandes still to join the main group for training after his exertions at Euro 2024, Mason Mount hoping to remain fit and Casemiro still at the club when many thought he may make a summer move to the Saudi Pro-League, it is possible a deal may eventually be done for the Scot.

Smith Rowe is a club record signing for Fulham and sources say the add-ons are based on Cup and European success for the Cottagers.

The 23-year-old has been left out of Arsenal’s past two pre-season matches as the deal was completed.

Smith Rowe is an academy graduate and a popular figure among supporters but has dropped down the pecking order at Arsenal behind Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard and Bukayo Saka.

The midfielder has three England caps, the last of which came in 2022.

Meanwhile, Arsenal have signed Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna for a fee of up to £42m.

The 28-year-old Portugal international joins the Bundesliga club a year after their initial deal to sign him collapsed.

“This is one of the happiest days of my life,” Palhinha told the club’s website.

“I’m now playing for one of the top clubs in Europe. It’s a dream come true for me, and I’m very proud of that.”

Palhinha joined Fulham from Sporting Lisbon in 2022 for around £17m.

He won the club’s Player of the Year award during his opening season at Craven Cottage.

The midfielder made 79 appearances over two seasons in west London, scoring eight times.

Palhinha follows Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise to Bayern.

English defender Eric Dier has also joined the Bundesliga club permanently after playing for them on loan from Tottenham last season.

Bayern’s 11-year hold on the German title was ended by Bayer Leverkusen in 2023-24.

The Blues believe they are close to a long-term deal with the 26-year-old, who is subject to a medical next week.

Adarabioyo is understood to be making the move in order to play in Europe.

Newcastle and Manchester United were also reportedly interested in the player.

Former Manchester City academy centre-back Adarabioyo rejected an offer to become one of the highest-paid players at Fulham in April.

Chelsea hope he can help improve their record in both attacking and defensive set-pieces, as coach Bernardo Cueva joins them in a £750,000 deal from Brentford to establish a set-piece department.

Adarabioyo’s potential arrival could accelerate the departure of Chelsea academy defender Trevoh Chalobah, who is available for sale this summer with reported interest from Manchester United.

Thiago Silva, 39, will also leave Chelsea to rejoin Brazilian club Fluminense this summer.

In a game they dominated from start to finish, the visitors opened the scoring early on when defender Gvardiol produced a clinical finish after a good move opened up the Fulham defence.

Phil Foden then continued his excellent form this season with a second after the break, sending a first-time finish past Bernd Leno.

Erling Haaland should have added a third midway through the second half but the Premier League’s top scorer somehow drove high over when through on goal.

But Manchester City did not have to wait long for another goal as Gvardiol stabbed in at the far post to put the result beyond Fulham.

Issa Diop was shown a second yellow card in stoppage time as he brought down Julain Alvarez inside the box, and the Manchester City substitute then duly converted the penalty.

The result means the Gunners head to Manchester United on Sunday needing to win to be certain of taking the title race to the final day of the season.

Manchester City are at Tottenham on Tuesday and if Arsenal fail to get a positive result at Old Trafford then victory will seal a fourth consecutive Premier League title for Guardiola’s side.

Adam Wharton’s pass found Schlupp outside the box in the closing stages, with the substitute’s powerful effort arrowing into the top corner to leave goalkeeper Bernd Leno helpless.

Rodrigo Muniz’s thumping header had put Fulham in front shortly after the break.

The Brazilian got on the end of Timothy Castagne’s pinpoint cross as he continued his fine form since the end of January.

But Palace, now four matches unbeaten in the league, showed fighting spirit to come back with minutes left to play, after being the better team in the first half.

Michael Olise, starting in place of the injured Eberechi Eze, had a promising chance for Palace early on but shot wide of the post.

It looked like the visitors could end up punished for their profligacy in front of goal when Chris Richards headed an Olise free-kick over the bar, while in-form Jean-Phillipe Mateta volleyed high over the bar from close range.

Fulham’s best chances before the break came when Muniz almost caught Dean Henderson out at his near post and Issa Diop headed over from the resulting corner.