Gazelle vs Colombe - Elite One

The Elite One returns to the home ground on October 18, 2026, where Gazelle and Colombe will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. The future of players such as Haaland has also been widely discussed in the event that City face relegation, either immediately or as a consequence of a points deduction.

There is plenty riding on this Elite One encounter for Gazelle and Colombe alike, and neither will want to leave the home ground empty-handed. The hosts will be looking to find their rhythm and put a run of results together. Colombe will travel with intent, knowing that a positive result here could kick-start their campaign. The Saudi Pro League side have now placed a €45 million package on the table, while Watkins himself is understood to be open to making the move.

Stylistically, this is a compelling matchup. Gazelle favour a patient, possession-based approach, whereas Colombe are at their most dangerous when allowed to hit quickly on the counter. It isn't clear yet that this will definitely be a winger, with Maresca and sporting director Hugo Viana flexible over their attack.

Game-changers are scattered across both line-ups, and the contest may well be decided by which side's match-winners deliver on the day. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. Though they have cast their net to investigate deals for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson and Arsenal's Gabriel Jesus, too, per Sky in Italy.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. The signals point towards a stalemate, with the two sides closely matched across form and standings. A 1-1 draw is easy to envisage. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the Elite One standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. Arsenal fan Piers Morgan has taken to social media to give a scathing verdict following Man City's win over Liverpool.