Gilt transfer

The Saudis have pulled off the biggest sportswashing coup possible, redefining the European football landscape

The transfer window in European football came to a close on the evening of September 1, leaving teams with no more chance to plug the gaps that had existed in their squads since June 14. As a result, many had to make third-rate, surplus-to-requirement acquisitions.

Manchester United, for one, found itself in the last-chance saloon, with the barkeep gone on extended leave. No choice, then, but to get smashed and hope for the best over 38 matches, with Arsenal coming up first at the Emirates on September 3. Mouthwatering, as they say nowadays, without a left back, a striker, and quality