Viktor Johansson

Stoke City Hero’s Post-Match Moment Speaks Volumes

07/11/2024 Raymond 0

**Viktor Johansson Inspires Stoke City’s 2-0 Win Over Blackburn**

Stoke City secured a crucial 2-0 victory at Blackburn Rovers, marking their first away win under head coach Narcis Pelach. Goals from Million Manhoef and Tom Cannon gave the Potters all three points, but it was goalkeeper Viktor Johansson who truly stole the show. The Swedish keeper was in outstanding form, making a series of vital saves that kept Stoke in control. His performance wasn’t just about what he did on the pitch, though. After the final whistle, Johansson’s joyous celebration with the away fans highlighted the bond he’s forming with supporters. His infectious energy and brilliant shot-stopping have made him a fan favourite, and his impact on the team cannot be overstated.

The victory also highlighted Stoke’s growing attacking threat. Cannon continued his fine form with another goal, while Lewis Koumas added dynamism to the attack after being reintroduced to the starting lineup. Despite being without Ben Wilmot due to illness, the Potters looked solid all over the pitch and are beginning to show the signs of a more cohesive, well-rounded team under Pelach. With Johansson in such fine form and key players returning to fitness, Stoke look set to build on this momentum.

Key man believes Stoke City have found ‘something we really needed last season’

07/08/2024 Raymond 0

Million Manhoef is eager to return to playing in front of Stoke City fans at the bet365 Stadium, emphasizing the importance of winning individual and team battles to succeed in the Championship. Reflecting on his initial months at the club since his transfer from Vitesse Arnhem, Manhoef acknowledges the steep learning curve and the necessity of hard work and teamwork. “If you win your duels and work hard together, then the football comes out,” he notes.

Manhoef is expected to bring flair and threat on the right wing this season, highlighting the importance of unpredictability and effective runs. As Stoke prepares for their first league match against Coventry City, Manhoef praises new signing Ben Gibson’s leadership and defensive prowess, stating, “He’s a big personality in the team and keeps everyone sharp at the back. That’s something we really needed.”

At 22, Manhoef is excited about the upcoming season and aims to break Stoke’s cycle of bottom-half finishes. He hopes to help the team climb the table, contributing with goals and assists, while also improving as a player. Reflecting on the previous season, he feels confident about the team’s potential. “If we can win the duels every game, I think we can have a great season,” he asserts.

Manhoef has set personal targets for goals and assists, having scored four and set up one in his first 14 appearances. His love for playing at the bet365 Stadium and the energy from the fans motivates him to excel. “When you can hear the fans, it gives you more motivation,” he says, underscoring the importance of fan support for the team’s success.

Stoke City: Capitalising on Norwich City call looks smarter after QPR, Wolves fee talk – View

12/07/2024 Raymond 0

Stoke City have already made a significant transfer decision this summer as they aim to climb the Championship table next season under Steven Schumacher. The Potters have signed standout goalkeeper Viktor Johansson and dynamic wing-back Eric Junior Bocat from Rotherham United and Sint-Truiden, respectively. This is just the beginning of what is expected to be a busy transfer market period for Schumacher as he shapes his squad for the 2024/25 campaign.

Burger stays: How Stoke City’s perfect 2024 summer transfer window surely looks

08/07/2024 Raymond 0

Stoke City under Steven Schumacher are gearing up for the 2024/25 season with strategic transfer moves aimed at bolstering their squad. Already, they’ve secured key signings like goalkeeper Viktor Johansson, defender Ben Gibson, and wing-back Eric Junior Bocat. Despite these additions, the departure of longstanding players like Tyrese Campbell and several contract expirations has left Schumacher with substantial work to do in reshaping the team.

One crucial figure in their plans is Wouter Burger, whose impactful debut season has attracted interest from Premier League clubs. Stoke faces a challenge in retaining him amidst reported bids, with a fee around £12 million potentially luring him away. Meanwhile, the club hopes to convince Ki-Jana Hoever to return following a successful loan spell, despite uncertainties about his role at Wolves.

Stoke City latest: Josh Laurent exit claim, Rak-Sakyi loan battle,

04/07/2024 Raymond 0

Stoke City is gearing up for a significant summer of roster changes and strategic transfer decisions to strengthen their position in the Championship. Under the leadership of new manager Steven Schumacher, the team is actively engaging in the transfer market. Schumacher, in his inaugural summer as the Potters boss, has already secured notable signings such as goalkeeper Viktor Johansson from Rotherham United, seasoned center-back Ben Gibson from Norwich City, and dynamic wing-back Eric Bocat from Sint-Truiden.

Several first-team players have exited the club as their contracts expired, signaling a period of transition for the squad. Among the notable departures, center-back Matthew Baker has permanently moved to Newport County following a compensation agreement between the clubs, and young goalkeeper Tommy Simkin has embarked on a season-long loan to Walsall, starting on June 2.

Stoke City transfer state of play as transfer window opens

14/06/2024 Raymond 0

The summer transfer window officially opens today, and Stoke City has already secured two new signings. Rotherham United goalkeeper Viktor Johansson and free agent center-back Ben Gibson, formerly of Norwich, have joined the club. Additionally, contracts for backup goalkeeper Frank Fielding and left-back Enda Stevens have been extended.

This summer’s transfer activity is expected to differ significantly from last year’s, with fewer deals and more familiar names being brought in. Sporting director Jon Walters has been actively scouting games, while manager Steven Schumacher has clearly defined his requirements. A notable change in the transfer department saw Jared Dublin replaced by Lee Darnbrough as head of recruitment, bringing in valuable experience from his time at Hull City, West Brom, Burnley, and Norwich.

Key player movements include the departure of Tyrese Campbell after eight years with Stoke, while Jordan Thompson’s contract option was exercised, and Enda Stevens re-signed for another year. Stoke’s focus now shifts to finding a main striker to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.

Stoke City starting XI for next season as Steven Schumacher gets early business done

09/06/2024 Raymond 0

Stoke City has bid farewell to five key players from their starting lineup, determined to promptly fill these gaps. Goalkeeper Daniel Iversen, right-back Ki-Jana Hoever, center-half Luke McNally, and attacking midfielder Luke Cundle have all returned to their parent clubs after their loan spells, while striker Tyrese Campbell departs at the end of his contract.

Junior Tchamadeu is set to replace Hoever, with Lynden Gooch providing competition. Seventeen-year-old Sol Sidibe, recently called up to England’s under-18 team, is expected to be a major part of the first team squad during pre-season, potentially sharing minutes with midfielders Jordan Thompson, Wouter Burger, Josh Laurent, Ben Pearson, and Lewis Baker. Viktor Johansson has joined as the new number one goalkeeper from Rotherham United.

In defense, Ben Gibson joins Michael Rose and Ben Wilmot. Left-back Enda Stevens has extended his contract, but given his injury history, additional cover may be sought. The center-forward position remains a top priority, with Ryan Mmaee and Niall Ennis eager to prove themselves, and youngsters Emre Tezgel and Nathan Lowe aiming to catch the coach’s attention.

The transfer window remains open, and Stoke City expects further player movements, both in and out, marking a proactive shift from the previous year’s unsettled pre-season.

Every Premier League and Championship free agent for Stoke City to consider so far this summer

02/06/2024 Raymond 0

The free agent market is attracting significant attention from both Premier League and Championship clubs, as managers and recruitment chiefs seek out bargains, gambles, and hidden gems. Stoke City has already initiated their summer activity by signing goalkeeper Viktor Johansson, taking advantage of a relegation release clause. Head coach Steven Schumacher and sporting director Jon Walters are focused on enhancing the first team squad by adding balance and quality, particularly seeking one or two strikers and a center-back.

Several Premier League clubs have yet to confirm their retained lists following the conclusion of the 2023/24 campaign. In the Championship, Cardiff City and Leeds United have also not published their lists. Below is a summary of the current group of players without a contract beyond June 30.