Winners and losers: Liverpool’s collapse, Vinícius magic and a Bundesliga already decided

The return of club football after the October international break delivered drama, goals, shock sackings and statement performances across Europe’s top leagues. From Liverpool FC’s bruising home defeat to Manchester United, to FC Bayern München’s relentless march in Germany and AC Milan climbing to the Serie A summit, it was a weekend that may shape the direction of several title races. Here are the biggest winners and losers from a defining round of fixtures.

Loser: Liverpool fall flat at Anfield

It was billed as a statement game, but Liverpool FC looked disjointed and uninspired in their 2–1 home defeat to Manchester United. The energy and intensity that usually define Jürgen Klopp’s side were nowhere to be found, as United exploited gaps in midfield and punished a shaky defence. Injuries played a part, but the lack of cohesion in attack was even more alarming. For a team with title ambitions, this was a damaging result that could have wider consequences.

Winner: Vinícius Júnior sparks Real Madrid’s charge

While Kylian Mbappé scored the decisive goal, it was Vinícius Júnior who set the tone for Real Madrid CF against Getafe CF. His direct running and relentless energy constantly unsettled the defence, leading to the breakthrough moment. Madrid remain at the top of LaLiga, looking sharp and efficient. Vinícius continues to be a driving force in a team that grows more dangerous by the week.

Loser: Ajax slide further into crisis

AFC Ajax’s 2–0 home defeat to AZ Alkmaar deepened the sense of unease around the club. With just one win in their last six matches, they are already nine points adrift in the Eredivisie title race. John Heitinga is under increasing pressure as both performances and results deteriorate. A team once synonymous with dominance is now struggling to keep pace at the top.

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Winner: Ballon d’Or frontrunners make their mark

The three biggest attacking stars in world football all delivered once again. Harry Kane struck in Der Klassiker, Erling Haaland bagged a brace for Manchester City FC and Kylian Mbappé sealed the win for Madrid. Their combined scoring power is setting the tone early in the 2026 Ballon d’Or race. Ruthless, consistent and unstoppable — these three continue to dominate the headlines.

Loser: Allan Nyom’s nightmare cameo

Allan Nyom managed just 37 seconds on the pitch for Getafe CF before being sent off against Real Madrid. A reckless off-the-ball clash with Vinícius Júnior turned the tide decisively. With Getafe down to ten men, Mbappé struck the winner to cap a miserable night for the hosts. For Nyom, it was a moment to forget.

Winner: Cesc Fàbregas continues Como’s fairytale

Cesc Fàbregas and Como 1907 added another impressive scalp by beating Juventus FC 2–0. The newly promoted side played with intelligence and control, showing why they’re quickly becoming one of Serie A’s most exciting stories. Fabregas has instilled belief and tactical discipline in his team. From promotion battles to challenging the elite, Como’s rise is remarkable.

Loser: Serie A leaves fans wanting more

While the title race is thrillingly tight, the entertainment was lacking this weekend in Serie A. Just nine goals were scored across nine matches, with four ending in goalless draws. It was a reminder of the league’s more defensive past, offering little for neutrals craving drama. A competitive table doesn’t always guarantee excitement.

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Winner: AC Milan reclaim the summit

AC Milan climbed back to the top of Serie A after a 2–1 comeback win over ACF Fiorentina. Rafael Leão scored both goals in a performance that underlined Milan’s resilience. With Luka Modric controlling games and Massimiliano Allegri tightening the defence, Milan look like genuine contenders. A 20th league title is suddenly a realistic ambition.

Loser: A Bundesliga title race in name only

FC Bayern München’s 2–1 win over Borussia Dortmund felt like a decisive blow. Seven wins from seven and a five-point gap at the top have Bayern already in control of Bundesliga. Harry Kane was on the scoresheet again, with Michael Olise netting the winner. Unless something dramatic happens, the race might be over before it truly begins.

Winner: Marseille light up Ligue 1

Olympique de Marseille stormed to the top of Ligue 1 with a stunning 6–2 win over Le Havre. Mason Greenwood was the star of the show with four goals in a clinical attacking display. With Paris Saint-Germain dropping points, Roberto De Zerbi’s side seized their moment. Suddenly, a title race many thought wouldn’t happen looks very real.

Loser: Ange Postecoglou’s short Forest era ends

Ange Postecoglou was sacked just 21 minutes after Nottingham Forest FC’s 3–0 defeat to Chelsea FC. His 39-day tenure produced no wins and a team lacking any clear identity. Forest’s bloated squad and fractured structure have left the club in trouble. Relegation concerns are suddenly very real.

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Winner: Amorim and Manchester United stun Liverpool

Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United delivered a performance that will live long in memory, beating Liverpool 2–1 at Anfield. Amorim’s 3-4-3 system clicked perfectly as United outworked and outplayed their rivals. Casemiro dominated midfield, while Bruno Fernandes and Senne Lammens shone. It was a win that may just ignite United’s season.

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