European Football Preview (Clasico Special)

It is the biggest game in the Spanish league or perhaps the biggest fixture on calendar in European football. This weekend, newly crowned world club champions – Real Madrid host eternal rivals Barcelona in a must win game for Zinedine Zidane’s team if they still harbor any hope of retaining their La Liga crown. Elsewhere in Spain, there is a derby in Valencia, two English heavy weights will be battling for a top four spot and it is second versus fourth in the Serie A.

This is our preview of some key fixtures in the top leagues in Europe.

We kick off in Italy;

Bianconeri v Giallorossi

JUVENTUS v AS ROMA 

Italian champions Juve entertain Roma in the final league game of 2017. This fixture is one of the most keenly contested games in the Serie A, so expect fireworks from both sides at the Juventus stadium. Unfortunately, AS Roma haven’t enjoyed their trips to Turin lately, they haven’t won there since 2010. VERDICT: Juventus will shade 2-1

SS NAPOLI v SAMPDORIA 

Napoli ready to defend their top position

League leaders Napoli should consolidate on their victory away victory at Torino last week and ensure they retain top spot heading into the winter break. Sampdoria find no joy when visiting San Paolo, their last victory there was in 1998. VERDICT: Expect goals from both sides, Napoli to win 3-1 

We cross over to England,

ARSENAL v LIVERPOOL. The Gunners square off against the high scoring Liverpool. Arsenal managed to turn the corner with their narrow victory over Newcastle but Liverpool is a different proposition. The Reds current away form has been nothing short of spectacular.  VERDICT: Expect goals here. 2-2 draw 

Christmas party!!

MANCHESTER CITY v BOURNEMOUTH  

Surely, no one will bet against Man City extending their impressive run in the Premier League. It’s difficult to seeing Bournemouth offer much resistance here. VERDICT: Man City to win at home comfortably. 3-0

BURNLEY v TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR 

The Clarets are placed sixth on the log after 18 games. For a team whose initial target for the season would have been survival (40 points), they have 32 already. Spurs on the other hand have a good record against Burnely at Turf Moor winning their last three there. VERDICT: I fancy Burnley giving a better fight so I will go for a draw 1-1 

LEICESTER CITY v MANCHESTER UNITED

Leicester host Manchester United at the King Power stadium. Both teams crashed out of the Carabao cup midweek so we should expect a reaction. Leicester have lost their last two games, their confidence could be fragile at the moment. VERDICT: Mourinho will demand an instant result after their Bristol collapse. 2-1 Manchester United 

EVERTON v CHELSEA

Wayne Rooney…. Can he make this difference?

The Toffees form has improved drastically since Sam Allardyce took over the Goodison Park club. Club hero – Wayne Rooney has found his goal-scoring touch again and will be looking to add to his tally. VERDICT: This is a tough game for Chelsea so I will go for a draw 1-1

Moving over to Spain,

VALENCIA v VILLARREAL

Mestalla is the venue for the Valencia derby..

We have a derby in Valencia. In spite of their recent poor away form, Valencia are stil unbeaten at home and would look to end 2017 on high. On the other hand, Villarreal too ended a three game losing streak last weekend with a victory over Celta Vigo. VERDICT: I am going for a close game here, 2-1 Valencia

To the biggest game of the weekend,

REAL MADRID v BARCELONA

el clasico!!

Back-to-back Club World Champions and UEFA Champions League winners face their eternal rivals in the Spanish capital. The rivalry between these sides cannot be overemphasized but it is Barcelona who hold a healthy lead over their illustrious opponent going into this game. Real Madrid know it is all or nothing if they are to challenge for the league title season. Samuel Umtiti’s absence could prove pivotal for Barcelona. VERDICT: I’m backing Real Madrid to dig deep and secure a much needed win against a very strong rival. 2-1 Real Madrid

 

 

MANCHESTER UNITED AND THE BURDEN OF EXPECTATION

Ferguson’s first of many……

May 17, 1990 was a significant day in the illustrious career of Sir Alex Ferguson as manager of Manchester United as well as the club. Lee Martin’s goal in the FA Cup final replay saw The Red Devils pick up their first silverware under the Scottish manager. Since that day, it has been glory glory Man. United under Ferguson with the 2012-13 Premier League title as his swansong.

Fergie’s final….

In his 26-and-a-half years as the Manchester United manager, SAF won 38 titles, over took the legendary Sir Matt Bubsy record as longest serving manager at the club so it was a honour bestowed on him to anoint his successor – David Moyes. The former Everton manager ill-fated tenure lasted just ten months. Manchester United finished the 2013-14 season a record seventh position in the modern day Premier League era. For supporters, board of directors and players, it was a strange place to be and the club acted swiftly by appointing an experienced head in Dutch tactician Louis Van Gaal.

Louis Van Gaal entrance was likened to Jesus Christ arrival at Lazarus tomb to raise him from the dead. United had become the laughing stock of the city at the end of the season with their noisy neighbours winning the league title compared to theirs which ended with no European competition the following season.

Attracting preferred top players became a challenge; several high profile transfer targets opted for other destinations than Old Trafford. The Dutchman’s first priority was to restore the club’s pride and get them back to the Europe premier competition while challenging for the title and winning silverwares.

In his first year, Louis Van Gaal was still able to bring in a few quality players – Angel Di Maria, Radamel Falcao, Marcos Rojo, Daley Blind, etc to the theatre of dreams but the initial buzz about them and the team fizzled out as the season went on. Manchester United managed to finish in the top four bracket comfortably,  nevertheless they will have to make it into the group stages of the UEFA Champions League via play offs. While Van Gaal has been trying to steady the ship on the pitch, executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward has mesmerized in the board room like Cristiano Ronaldo with lucrative commercial deals for the club.

The New Red Devils

With both ends achieving their set objectives at the end of last season, Manchester United preparation for the new season has been swift with their statement of intent in the transfer market. Quality reinforcements in midfield and attack has seen German captain Bastian Schweinsteiger join from Bayern Munich, Morgan Schneiderlin from Southampton, Memphis Depay from PSV, amongst others. Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos was the top defensive target until he made a u-turn about staying put at the Santiago Bernabeu. This situation has forced the Old Trafford club to put spanner in the works of the Spanish giants who have been courting goalkeeper David De Gea. Rumors making the news confirmed United’s war chest for summer transfers to be in the region of £150 million, which is more than the annual budget of at least half of the football clubs in the top five European leagues.

With the new bumper TV deal for the EPL around the corner and commercial revenues from major sponsors, United are in a strong financial position to challenge in the market. LVG activities in the market must be cheering news for supporters and associates of the club but they have to evaluate their expectations with some caution.

Huge investments come with bigger expectation, risk and the pressure to deliver. Some of the new players arriving especially those from foreign leagues will require adaptability period which varies according to individual players. The manager will need his wealth of experience and overall managerial skills to get the best out of his squad tactically and technically. Last season, Angel Di Maria and Radamel Falcao, both high profile acquisitions failed to light up Old Trafford with their wizardry and goals. They were either square pegs in round holes or the manager couldn’t be patient enough with them, either ways, it turned out to be a fruitless season for all parties concerned. Both players have left Old Trafford.

Louis Van Gaal…. The man with the weight of the world on his shoulders

In addition to the expectation, title rivals, Chelsea and Arsenal have started heaping additional pressure on Manchester United. Chelsea manager, Jose Mourinho has bashed his title rivals claiming they want to purchase the Premier League crown, an unbelievable statement from a Chelsea manager. Arsene Wenger has added his voice by stating his surprise at Manchester United ditching their previous tradition for a new approach of buying stars rather than make them.

In the last two decades, Manchester United have not suffered trophy drought beyond two seasons, the burden of expectation for the former Ajax and Barcelona coach will be enormous. With these summer investment, Van Gaal has no excuse in the coming season for United not prospering since the club has been plugged into the Dutchman’s way.

As a note of warning, his last club engagement (Bayern) did not end on a pleasant note.

BAYERN MUNICH: AN IDENTITY CRISIS?

Pep’s presentation. Welcome to Bayern Munchen, Guardiola!

In January 2013,  Bayern München announced Pep Guardiola as the new manager to take over Bavarian club at the end of the 2012-13 season, a season that ended with a treble. Juup Heynckes, who was indirectly forced out against his wish couldn’t have left on a note higher as his third spell produced a glorious exit when compared to the others.

Former (Heynckes), Present (Guardiola)

Since the arrival of the former Barcelona coach at Saberner Strasse, the German champions have the acquired the services of several Spanish-speaking players. Though Javi Martinez arrived before Guardiola era, Thiago Alcantara, Juan Bernat, Xabi Alonso and Pepe Reina are all Spain internationals who have moved to Bayern. Reina left this summer for regularly playing time in Italy, Arturo Vidal who is about to sign will join the growing list of Spanish-speaking tongues.

Pep’s arrival at Die Roten turned global spotlight more on the Bavarian club as well as the Bundesliga with greater attention from the Spanish media. This globalization effect or new commercial strategy could be what Bayern directors are trying to cash in on.

The Spanish Contingent

Whilst these additions should not raise eyebrows at a big club like Bayern whose ambition is to be the best not only in Germany but in Europe hence the need for a large squad, it is the rate at which German internationals and club symbols are leaving the club that is worrying. Last summer after Germany conquered the world in Brazil, Toni Kroos moved to Real Madrid. His arrival signaled the end of Xabi Alonso at the Spanish club but it is quite unbelievable that Bayern lost Kroos to the club’s refusal to offer him a worthy contract. The club decided to replace him with a player who is nine years older.

This summer, club legend, Bastian Schweinsteiger has been allowed to move on to Manchester United with relative ease. The Die Mannschaft captain who spent 17 years at the club and still in his prime has been shipped out with further stars like Thomas Muller and Mario Gotze being linked with Manchester United and Juventus respectively.

Traditionally, Bayern München has always been a second home for the Germany national team where German stars are made or bought but in this era, the focus has been on importing foreign stars. In a relative quite summer, Brazilian forward Douglas Costa has arrived to provide competition for Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery in a league where Julian Draxler or Marco Reus,  both German internationals ply their trade for other German teams and are being courted by foreign clubs.

Former Bayern München coach Ottmar Hitzfeld has added his voice by advising the Bundesliga champions not to lose their German identity.

Basti and Toni…. No more Bavarians

“Bayern should be wary and make sure German remains the No.1 language in the team – and not Spanish,” Hitzfeld was quoted as saying by Kicker.
“This appears to be a new trend at Bayern. FCB previously always had the goal of signing the best German players. “Mario Gotze is the perfect example of a German player who was made for Bayern. This fantastic player should challenge himself and convince Guardiola that he should be an undisputed starter.”

With Guardiola current deal at Allianz Arena expiring at the end the new season and an extension not firmly in sight, Bayern will have to reconsider its new policy in the eventuality of both parties walking away.

Gotze and Muller…. The next set to leave?

If Guardiola stays on, will the club’s board continue to back him to bring in foreign stars at the expense of German players (home grown or bought). If he leaves, what does the future hold for Bayern when a new man walks into the cosy office at Sabener Strasse  training ground?

 

IKER CASILLAS: THE END OF AN ERA

Emotional Iker

 

After 25 years at the club of his heart, Iker Casillas, directly forced out or otherwise has left Real Madrid to join FC Porto. It wasn’t the kind of ending many Madridistas expected but it is an ending. A situation initiated by then coach Jose Mourinho when he dropped Iker in a league game in December 2012.

It’s difficult to overstate the magnitude of Casillas at Real Madrid. The local boy from Mostoles, a working class suburb from Madrid, he came through the club’s youth ranks and broke into the first team as a starter in 1999 at 18. In November 1997 then he was 16, Iker Casillas cannot remember what he was drawing at the exact moment he was called up to Real Madrid’s Champions League squad for the very first time. It was a technical design class. One winter afternoon south of Madrid, a messenger came into his classroom to tell the teacher the headmaster wanted a word. Iker dashed to the head’s office where he was told he had to get home quick. Madrid were going to Norway and Casillas was going with them.

Young Casillas

“Bodo Illgner was injured and Santiago Cañizares had a knock, so Real needed a third keeper. Iker was literally pulled out of a technical design class. His teacher queried: ‘Well he’s supposed to be working in my class.’ The headmaster, who was a big Madrid fan, called. He knew Iker was in the youth system and every time they saw he’d talk about Madrid. He told young Casillas that he had to get to the team hotel near Barajas, ready to fly to Norway.

“They took me home in the school minibus. My mum was frantically packing my bag for me. I got changed, picked up a suit and a jacket which I had from playing for Spain’s Under-16s and off we went. The other kids had no idea why I’d left class; no one had mobiles back then. Now everywhere you go everyone is waiting with a camera phone.”

Casillas knew he wouldn’t play but Jupp Heynckes made him change and sit on the bench for the experience. And something had been started. Two and a half years later, he was the youngest goalkeeper to play in a European Cup final as Madrid became champions against Valencia.

He ended up starting in and winning the Champions League final against Valencia. He would win two more Champions Leagues, including an absolutely epic performance coming on as a substitute in the 2002 final against Bayer Leverkusen.

He won five leagues and was named the world’s best goalkeeper a record five times in a row. Perhaps most importantly, he captained Spain to two European Championships and one World Cup title, in 2010, with a vintage “San Iker” performance in the final against Holland.

He is, without a doubt, the greatest goalkeeper to ever play for Real Madrid.

Despite all of his greatness and all-around class attitude, Iker Casillas has been booed by a sector of the Bernabéu fans at nearly every single home game for the past two seasons.

Where did it all go wrong between Casillas and Real Madrid?

The beginning of the end?

It all started with a phone call in the fall of 2011 between Casillas, then the captain of both Real Madrid and Spain, and Xavi and Carles Puyol, captains of FC Barcelona. Tensions were at an all-time high between Real Madrid and Barcelona, mostly due to the unprecedented provocative sword wielding on Madrid manager Jose Mourinho. Mourinho fomented an “us against them” mentality, preferring to treat the relationship with Barça as an openly hostile one rather than one based on mutual respect. He even stuck his fucking finger in the late Tito Vilanova’s eye at the end of a particularly heated Clasico.

Casillas, who at first was in tune with Mourinho’s brinksmanship, realized that things had gotten way out of hand, and if that he didn’t act as the captain of Spain, he would put that summer’s 2012 European championship campaign in jeopardy. He decided to reach out to Puyol and Xavi to try to calm the waters and build unity ahead of the tournament. By Iker’s account, the call was tense, but ultimately a key factor in Spain’s ultimate victory at Euro 2012.

Mourinho saw this as outright treason and never forgave Casillas. Mourinho is a man who sees two kinds of people in the world: those who are with him, and those who are against him. He started to suspect that Casillas was against him.

The lines were clearly drawn and the consequences were lasting. Casillas has not been the same since, but nor has he been anywhere near as bad as his fiercest critics claim. The coach had diagnosed the decline, it was about personalities and politics and Casillas’s reputation became increasingly damaged – the goalkeeper was accused of leaking dressing room secrets and of lacking professionalism. He was protected by the media, his detractors complained, but protection was certainly not offered from the club. In one interview he admitted to feeling “alone”.

The Real Madrid legendary goalkeeper situation created a divide amongst fans. This situation led Iker to Oporto where he can resurrect the latter days of his career with tranquil and a breath of new life.

So who will replace Casillas at Real Madrid?

Can De Gea step in Casillas….

David de Gea. The Manchester United keeper has been tipped as his natural successor both at club and national team. De Gea has been reported to be so homesick that he is willing to forget the fact that he is a lifelong Atléti fan in order to be closer to his girlfriend and family. He only has one year left on his deal, so it looked like United would eventually be forced to make a deal.

Another option is Kiko Casilla. The Espanyol goalkeeper whose name is same minus an ‘s’ is a product of Real Madrid’s youth system and was always considered one of the best goalkeeping prospects of his generation. He’s a totally different style of keeper than de Gea — more of a commanding presence in the area due to his enormous size rather than a quick shot stopper. His strong performances for Espanyol have put him on the Spanish national team’s radar, with his international debut coming last season in a friendly against Germany.

Will it be Kiko?

Whoever comes to replace Iker Casillas will be stepping into a penalty box owned by a club legend for the last 16 years. It won’t be an easy task for whomever is chosen. It takes a special kind of mental strength to withstand the pressure of being Real Madrid’s No. 1.

In the end, after 725 games for Los Blancos, what has made Iker Casillas special? His ability to make the extraordinary ordinary, no matter how adverse the situation.

Iker and his trophies!

 

THE SAINTS ARE MARCHING ON

The South Coast Club

After their sensational finish to the 2013/14 season, Southampton was one of the few overachieving clubs of the season where they finished eighth in the league. Tottenham wasted no time in persuading their manager, Mauricio Pochettino who agreed to join the White Hart Lane outfit. Similarly, several key first team players departed to bigger teams. Dejan Lovren, Adam Lallana and Rickie Lambert to Liverpool, Calum Chambers was sold to Arsenal as well as Luke Shaw to Manchester United were the high profile departures.

Seeing their coach and players being snapped up by bigger clubs was a reminder of Southampton’s rightful place in the food chain of the game. They are a feeder’s club to the big teams.

New head coach, Ronald Koeman claimed they were not a selling club during his introduction at the club but he was helpless during the transfer window with the departure of star players. However, the Dutch tactician cleverly brought in players like Fraser Forster, Dusan Tadic, Graziano Pelle, Florin Gardos, Ryan Bertrand etc to fill the void created and ease tension amongst supporters.

At the start of the season, expectation of smashing the glass ceiling like the previous year had flown out of the window and whispers of a long season with a possibility of relegation whispered around Saint Mary’s.

Koeman had taken a job which required rebuilding. With the positive mindset of a strong academy and plenty of money in the bank from players’ sale, he needed to implement his ideas to his team real quick.

The Rebuilder….Koeman

 

The Saints opened their campaign away to previous season’s runners up Liverpool losing 2-1; this was followed by scoreless draw against West Brom at home. With one point out of a possible six, no one except Portsmouth fans  would begrudge their supporters to think they were heading into an unknown territory with a manager who has a divided opinion on his managerial career. Even as a multiple title winner with PSV and Ajax, Copa del Rey winner with Valencia, he almost got Los Ches relegated. Koeman also had a rough spell with AZ Alkmaar and his time at Benfica was not very successful either.

Their visit to Boleyn Ground late August was the start of their rise; they defeated West Ham 3-1 and followed it with a convincing home win against Newcastle. The Saints enjoyed a good run from September till late November where they lost once to their former manager’s new team Tottenham. Koeman’s side was truly punching above their weight as they sat comfortably in second place till the visit of Manchester City. The Champions brought the South coast club back to earth with a crushing 3-0 defeat at home. Southampton lost their next three league fixtures against Arsenal, Manchester United and Burnley but like the phoenix which they have proven to be this season, they returned to winning ways in December against Everton and have not looked back since. Since the turn of the year, they have beaten Arsenal at home and inflicted home defeats on Manchester United and Newcastle United.

Their league cup run was ended by Sheffield United during their poor run of form early December while they have progressed into the fourth round of the FA Cup.

Can they march on into UCL?

The Saints sit pretty comfortable in third position after 22 league games. European places do not look beyond their reach at this pace except for a catastrophic decline.

If last season’s success instigated the decision of bigger clubs to dismantle them before metamorphosing into a genuine force, their determination has inspired them to march on.

THE FIFA/FIFPRO XI OF 2014

For clarity sake, The FIFA/FIFPro World XI is chosen by over 50000 professional football players from all over the world, who vote for the best player in each position. This process means FIFA has delegated the responsibility of voting to professional footballers. During last night’s gala, I was surprised at some of the winners of 2014 FIFPRO XI award.

Here are the 11 stars that earned a place in the FIFA/FIFPro World XI 2014 are:
Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer
Defenders: Philipp Lahm, Sergio Ramos, David Luiz, Thiago Silva
Midfielders: Angel Di Maria, Toni Kroos, Andres Iniesta
Forwards: Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Arjen Robben
Eight of these eleven winners deserve to be in the team in my opinion. That number represents 73% which is a very good grade; the criticism would not be over the top this time. However, I shall proceed to discuss the three winners whom I do not think deserve a place here.

 

DAVID LUIZ – The Brazilian international whose transfer from Chelsea to Paris Saint-Germain may have been his only reason for making it into this team based of the transfer fee of £50 million (€62 million), that’s a world record for a defender. David Luiz spent the first half of 2014 as a Chelsea player under Jose Mourinho but couldn’t break the Terry-Cahill partnership. He was a back-up for the centre-half position and subsequently used as a defensive midfield enforcer. Clearly, Mourinho could not trust Luiz enough at the back and was moved on to Paris. During the FIFA World Cup held in his native country, he alongside most of his teammates rode on home support to get going until their shocking 7-1 defeat to Germany in the semi-finals. Whilst it is difficult to blame Luiz alone, he was guilty of several poor defensive displays which were evident once more during the third/fourth place play-offs where Netherlands compounded their woes. Since his move to PSG, he has not particularly lit up Parc des Princes with spectacular performances aside from scoring against Barcelona in a UEFA Champions’ League group game. In a world where there is no shortage of top quality centre halves; David Luiz should not be making FIFA/FIFPro World XI.

THIAGO SILVA – Another surprising inclusion in the defense is Paris Saint-Germain skipper Thiago Silva. According to the formation, Silva will be playing at Left Back position which isn’t an ideal one for him. The former Brazilian captain led the Brazilian team at the World Cup but was absent during their disastrous 7-1 loss to Germany thanks to suspension. The South American nation defense was never secured throughout the entire Mundial and one wonders how he managed to make this team. He played a significant role in PSG’s league and cup triumph of 2013/14 season but we would not have expected anything less in a league supremely ruled by the Qatari’s oil money in the capital. Furthermore, there are better full backs – David Alaba, Dani Carvajal, Felipe Luiz, etc who can fill that role ahead of Thiago Silva.

ANDRES INIESTA – The diminutive ball wizard is one of my most admired player because of his elegance when he caresses the ball. He brings wonderful memories of my football idol- Zinedine Zidane with his football skills but he doesn’t score as many goals. However, 2014 wasn’t his year. Iniesta struggled to dominate games, the important ones for both Barcelona and Spain. As much as I believe, Iniesta is a man of his own, the Albacete born midfielder has been struggling to exert the same kind of authority he used to since the gradual decline of his midfield partner – Xavi. I believe Iniesta still has a lot to offer the game but he doesn’t deserve a place in the 2014 FIFPRO XI team. Players like Luka Modric, Koke, Paul Pogba deserved to be nominated ahead of him.
I congratulate the winners who have excelled in their chosen sphere but I believe you have your opinion or reservation on some of the listed winners.

Please use the comment column beneath to express yourself.

Who will win the Premier League in 2014/15 Season?

The 2014/15 English Premier League season kicks off in a few days.

We all are excited. Nine months of football drama and exhibition is upon us again. The FIFA World Cup in Brazil was concluded only last month so why are we this excited? Well, the Barclays English Premier League is the most watched football league in the world with an estimated 4.7 billion TV audience. This league is worth £1 billion a year domestically and generates about €2.2 billion per year in domestic and international television rights. We’re talking big money here!

Last season, Manchester City won the title ahead of surprise package Liverpool and perhaps the biggest underachiever was Manchester United finishing seventh. A tale of two clubs in the same city (Manchester).

This preview is on the teams who have the capacity to win the title. I have shortlisted five teams under this category.

The Noisy Neighbours

Manchester City.  The noisy neighbours reclaimed their lost title in a title race that went down to the wire last season. Manuel Pellegrini’s side have what it takes to retain their title. They have kept the core of influential players from last season while adding quality in areas of need. Bacary Sagna arrived on a free transfer from Arsenal while Eliaquim Mangala from Porto comes at a huge price. City have plugged the holes at the back with these French players and increased competition. Willy Cabalero will keep Joe Hart on his toes while Fernando’s acquisition is a solid bargain in central midfield. Fitness permitting, Stefan Jovetic and Kun Aguero will provide required goals and assist for Dzeko and recuperating Negredo. The Citizens have quality all over, a top-4 finish is certain, could be champions too!

The Kopites

Liverpool.  The Merseyside club were the most impressive team during the second half of last season. Perhaps the pressure caught up the Reds as they succumb in the penultimate weeks and fell short. Liverpool impressed with their attacking style but same could not be said of their defensive abilities. The acquisition of Dejan Lovren and Javier Manquillo will increase competition at the back. With Luis Suarez exit, Raheem Sterling and Phillipe Coutinho will be expected to carry the team on their slender shoulders with Daniel Sturridge providing the goals. Adam Lallana, Rickie Lambert, Emre Can, Lazar Markovic have arrived to provide squad depth and quality too. The Reds supporters have to temper their expectation for the season with the return of European football at Anfield. European distraction as well as the short period to build a strong team with several new additions makes the push for the title more difficult but not impossible. This campaign is one for Rodgers to earn his stripes as a top manager if they can perform well once again. Liverpool may be the team to drop out of the top four this season.

True Blue

Chelsea.  The Londoners finished third last season. The inconsistent performance from Chelsea as well as the absence of a potent striker cost them the title. Jose Mourinho has addressed swiftly with the arrival of Diego Costa and return of Stamford Bridge legend – Didier Drogba. Arsenal fan’s favourite, Cesc Fabregas returned to London but this time, he will be plying his trade with the West Londoners. Thibaut Courtois returns to his parent club after his three years loan spell with Atletico Madrid. Chelsea probably has the biggest and strongest squad in the Premier League. The Portuguese manager and his loyalist will be aware that anything short of the league title will be seen as a failure. They are favourites to win it.

#COYG

Arsenal.  The Gunners ended their barren run last May with the FA Cup triumph. They appear to have kicked off with huge confidence with their performance during the Community Shield where Man City were brushed aside. Arsenal have been very active in the transfer market, Alexis Sanchez is the big money move from Barcelona. Mathieu Debuchy, Calum Chambers and David Ospina have arrived in North London too. Defeats to title rivals and injuries cost Arsenal dearly last term, Wenger has brought in a new fitness coach – Shad Forsythe  to improve physical conditions and recovery.

Arsenal may be one or two signings short but they must learn fast from last season by improving in the BIG games to stand a chance of winning the title. A top four finish is guaranteed.

 

Red Devils

Manchester United.  David Moyes reign as United boss saw the Old Trafford outfit regressed more than imagined. No one expected the former Everton boss to fill Ferguson void completely but his Manchester United team struggled all season and ended up in seventh position! The club did not waste time in changing route, new manager Louis Van Gaal is saddled with the responsibility of returning the Red Devils back to the summit of English football. With no European competition, the Dutch master tactician has enough time to bed in his philosophy and tactics. There is a sense of optimism around the club considering how their preseason preparation has panned out. Swansea is the first opponent for the new campaign, same as last year but LVG will definitely no struggle like his predecessor did.

Manchester United have to fight back to earn their place in the top four this season. A title chase will not be too ambitious as well. I do not see them winning it this season.

Mourinho draws first blood in 2014/15 season mind games!

The 2014/15 English Premier League season kick off is a few weeks from now. The first league meeting between Chelsea and Arsenal in the new season is in October but the mind games specialist – Jose Mourinho has wasted no time in taking a dig at his London rivals – Arsenal when he said Cesc Fàbregas never wanted to return to Arsenal. Why does his statement interest me?

A Gunner for Life in Blue!

As a neutral, Cesc return to Premier League is a bit of surprise to me considering the manner of approach from Barcelona before the 2010 World Cup till he eventually signed for the Catalan outfit in 2011. I was critically of Arsenal and Fàbregas for bowing to Barcelona’s pressure but that’s a story for another day so it was astonishing to learn of Los Cules decision to cash in on their versatile midfielder. Naturally, one would expect Fàbregas return to the Emirates considering Arsenal have first option buy back clause in his Barcelona’s contract but it was a little surprising to see the Gunners not exercising it.
With hindsight, it is quite clear that Arsenal has moved on after their former skipper’s exit. A return could halt the development of upcoming stars like Aaron Ramsey, Jack Wilshere and Alex Ox-Chamberlain not to mention unsettling the likes of Santi Cazorla and Mesut Ozil who could feel threatened. Another point is the issue of captaincy, if Fàbregas returned, will he be handed back the band? What kind of influence will he be exerting in the dressing room, his relatively huge transfer fee and big salary demand….etc? Perhaps these and many more could Arsene Wenger ‘s reasons in opting not bring back the Highbury/Emirates cult hero.
Taking it from a Cesc Fàbregas view point and his ties with the Gunners, playing for Chelsea via Barcelona is an unforgivable sin. Why would his new (controversial) manager stir the bees nest? When quizzed on whether it was difficult to convince Fàbregas to join Chelsea, Mourinho replied: “I spoke with him for 20 minutes. He really wanted to come to us. Arsenal had an option to interfere, but I think he was not open to that. I think he was very, very much in our direction, so it was an easy job for me.”
Jose Mourinho’s comment has opened up a series of debate and counter argument on Fàbregas move once more while Wenger has questioned the position of who is speaking the truth and otherwise.

October 5, 2014 is the date as Chelsea host Arsenal in the first meeting of these two Premier League title rivals. Cesc Fàbregas will be facing his former club for the first since his departure and It would be interesting to see who draws the first blood on the pitch as it appears Chelsea and Mourinho are leading on the mind games platform.

 
Please feel use the comment box below to express your opinion on Fàbregas move and Mourinho’s statement.

2014 FIFA WORLD CUP PREVIEWS – GROUP H

BELGIUM

The hype surrounding the Belgian national team ahead of the 2014 FIFA World Cup has been a little offensive. The Red Devils are everyone’s “dark-horse” and considering the Belgians boast some of the most talented youngsters in Europe, it’s perhaps not as surprising as it may first seem. Potential has now become a matter of expectation.
Wilmots’ team cemented their place at the top of their group with a game to spare, beating Croatia to the automatic qualifying slot.
Looking ahead to the tournament, there is a sense that not only is Belgium a strong outsider, but they have evolved into a genuine contender. Granted, there were many who noted a long time ago that players like Romelu Lukaku and Eden Hazard destined for stardom. But they have been joined by the likes of Jan Vertonghen, Thibaut Courtois, Axel Witsel and Vincent Kompany; all players who have developed way beyond expectations in recent seasons. Wonderful for Belgium, and the result is a squad packed with high-calibre, hungry players.
They have been drawn in a relatively easy group but there is a dearth of tournament experience in Wilmot’s team. Their last international tournament was twelve years ago during the World Cup in South Korea and Japan.
With so many talents abound, finding the star man in this young side shouldn’t be farfetched. Manchester City skipper, Vincent Kompany will be expected to lead this side and calm nerves. The Anderlecht academy graduate is a leader of men, his motivational skills, organization and the manner in which he leads by example will all be crucial qualities in the highly stressful atmosphere of a major tournament. de Rode Duivels can expect to make it to the last 8.

 

ALGERIA
Algeria will make only their fourth appearance at the World Cup this summer, and will go into it with growing confidence following the positive strides made by the country since their last appearance at the tournament in 2010 when they failed to score a single goal. Pitted against Burkina Faso in the compulsory African section playoffs, Algeria were facing the very real prospect of missing out on the 2014 World Cup. The Fennec Foxes fell to a 3-2 defeat in Burkina Faso, but were able to sneak through on away goals after a 1-0 win in Blida, with a goal from skipper Bougherra.
Coach Vahid Halihodzic has done his best to integrate some promising young players, especially in attacking areas. Players like Yacine Brahimi, Islam Slimani and Sofiane Feghouli have talent, and they are complimented well by the physical influences of Bougherra and Adlene Guediora. However, Halilhodzic has struggled to introduce similar quality in the defensive positions though, and this is arguably the biggest challenge facing this team ahead of their fourth World Cup bow. But he will be hoping the team can maintain similar solidarity and togetherness to the 2010 side, who were notoriously difficult to break down.
Sofiane Feghouli is the key player for the Fennec Foxes after discussions with the Algerian FA in 2011. The Valencia man is capable of playing from the right-hand side or just off the striker and is without doubt the most potent attacking force for this team. His excellent work-rate will be a key attribute too, especially when the Algerians come up against stronger, technically superior opponents.
The solidarity and togetherness is very unlikely to see them qualify from this group. The North Africans have two strong European teams in Belgium and Russia to contend with. A first round exit is almost certain.

 
RUSSIA
Russia topped Portugal in Group F to qualify for the World Cup and have evolved into a team thoroughly resembling their manager Fabio Capello. Perhaps the biggest indicator of this is the axing of former Russian captain Andrei Arshavin who as you might expect, doesn’t really compliment Capello’s pragmatic approach to management. The Sbornaya will be making their third FIFA World Cup appearance since the breakup of the old Soviet Union and will be aiming to reach the latter stages of the World Cup in 2014. Performances have been positive under the former England manager, his team normally sets out in a 4-2-3-1 formation but Capello isn’t afraid to switch things around should he feel the need to do so. The likes of Igor Akinfeev, Yuri Zhirkov and captain Igor Denisov complimenting the younger talents of Alan Dzagoeve and Aleksandr Kokorin provide a much needed blend of experience and youth.
Capello will be looking to better his previous World Cup performance with England in 2010. In South Africa the Three Lions were down right boring to watch and were given a lesson by a vibrant young Germany outfit in the last-16.
Alan Dzagoev is the chief playmaker for the side, taking over from Andrey Arhavin, who failed to make the squad. Dzagoev can play in a number of positions behind the striker but is best deployed in a central role, where his passing and dribbling skills greatly benefit the side.
With a glittering CV, the one thing missing from Capello’s resume is a success with an international team. Luckily for Capello, this Russia side should be hungry for exactly that. They looked the business after their first match in Euro 2012, but faltered in their other two group games and ultimately failed to qualify. Making it to the next round should not be a problem in this fairly decent group.

 

SOUTH KOREA
South Korea are making their seventh consecutive appearance at the FIFA World Cup and have been pitted against Algeria, Belgium, and Russia in Group H; the Taegeuk Warriors, who are currently ranked 55th in the world face a real challenge if they want to qualify out of their group. Memories of their fairy tale run to the semi-finals in 2002 as co-host is still fresh in the Asian country. While the crowd back home always expects Korea to put on a decent showing at any international event, the FIFA World Cup in Brazil may not be a particularly rewarding adventure for Bo’s men. Kim B0-Kyung and Ki Seung-Yeung are the midfield generals of whom a lot is expected, but when you put players like Andrea Pirlo or Xavi Hernandez in perspective, it’s easy to see that Korea are still a long way off the mark in terms of quality. One thing the Koreans do have is the legs; however the summer heat in Brazil is expected to be another factor that will weigh down the warriors of the eastern hemisphere.
Aside from that, there is little genuine quality within their ranks. Much depends on Son Heung Min, who has the capability to create and score goals. Ki Sung Yeung is coming into the World Cup after an excellent season with Sunderland too.
Explosive attacker Son Heung-Min is the Koreans’ most lethal weapon going forwards. His versatility and clinical finishing offers Bo a different dimension in attack while his slaloming runs are sure to cause concern amongst opposition defenders. At 21, the pacey two-footed former Hamburg man notched up ten Bundesliga goals in 31 appearances during the 2013-14 campaign, and currently has six international goals in his account. The world is expected to keep a close eye on the prodigy and see whether or not he can live up to his potential and burst onto the big frame in classic fashion.
South Korea’s exit from the group stages won’t ring many bells around the footballing world. An early exit beckons.

2014 FIFA WORLD CUP PREVIEWS – GROUP G

Germany.

Die Mannschaft enter the 2014 World Cup as one of the favorites, but first they must survive possibly the toughest group in the tournament. The Germans had an almost perfect qualifying run except their 4-4 draw with Sweden. Germany has won three World Cups and with their incredible depth, a fourth is not unexpected. However, a number of challenges stand in their way, including a daunting travel schedule within the group, a more difficult potential schedule than their main competitors, a climate much different than the one they are used to in Europe, and a recent history of being good but not quite good enough.
Joachim Loew is now approaching his tenth year in charge of Die Mannschaft. Despite having overseen the recent renaissance in German football, there are quiet murmurings emerging that suggest it is about time Loew won something with this marvellous crop of footballers.
Loew has fashioned a squad that has a sprinkling of everything. Their first XI is difficult to pick, but that’s because of the riches this German team have in pretty much every position on the pitch.
This German team is blessed with several talented players but there is one who slightly edges other in the absence of injured Marco Reus, Thomas Muller. The Bayern Munich man can play anywhere across the frontline and has an incredible knack of scoring hugely important goals at vital times. He was drafted in as a late starter in the last Word Cup, replacing the injured Michael Ballack. And boy did he impress. Muller won the Golden Boot and the award for best young player at the tournament. Since then, he has gone from strength to strength for club and country.
Their group draw helps Germany to kick start their campaign on a very high and competitive note against Portugal. It’s 24 years since Germany last won the World Cup and the expectation back home is huge but I feel the Germans have one mental hurdle between them and the trophy. They are a sure bet for the semi finals if not the finals. Anything less would be seen as a disaster.

 
Portugal.

For the third successive time, Portugal have qualified for a major tournament via the playoffs. The 2006 semi finalist required a Cristiano Ronaldo inspired 4-2 aggregate victory to secure them a place on the plane to Brazil. The Real Madrid forward practically dragged them there, scoring all four goals over the two legs and turning in a pair of stunning displays.
Paulo Bento’s team looks great on paper, but there are still chronic problems which plague this Portuguese team. The back four is pretty settled, but they have regularly struggled to garner a suitable balance in the middle of the pitch.
Nani and Ronaldo provide threat from the wide areas, but questions linger as to whether Helder Postiga has the class to lead the line. This team are a supreme counter attacking outfit. They will sit in their own half and allow teams to come onto them before springing from deep positions and exploiting the space in behind. Miguel Veloso is expected to take up the role of a defensive midfielder but he faces competition from William Carvalho. Raul Meireles is expected to provide balance and experience to this team while Joao Moutinho is the source of creativity in this team.
Portugal have their hopes pin on current Ballon d’Or winner – Cristiano Ronaldo.
Arguably the best player in the world today, Ronaldo has been nothing short of extraordinary over the last few years. CR7 has netted 49 times in 110 games for the Selecção. The former Manchester United man scored 17 goals in the Champions League and 31 in La Liga this season. Fitness permitting, Cristiano will drag his team as far as possible. They should qualify out of the most difficult group alongside Germany.

 

Ghana.

Ghana were inches away from being the first being the first African side in the semi-finals of a FIFA World Cup four years ago. Luis Suarez and Asamoah Gyan stopped that dream. The Black Stars destroyed the Pharoahs of Egypt during the African qualifying play offs to earn their third consecutive appearance at the World Cup.
It was a result that made people sit up and take note of this side. And Ghana certainly have some players capable of doing some real damage in Brazil. It’s in the midfield, where they have a glut of excellent options. Michael Essien is the most familiar of these names and he always seems to perform when pulling on the Ghanian national shirt. He’s ably supported by the likes of Kwadwo Asamoah, Sulley Muntari and Kevin-Prince Boateng; three players who have played and performed well on some of Europe’s biggest stages in their careers to date. In coach Kwesi Appiah, the West African side have a coach who has worked his way through the Ghanaian ranks, coaching the Black Stars’ Under 23 team to victory in the 2011 All-Africa Games but, more pertinently, acting as assistant coach to the full national side for a number of years before being given the job as first-team coach in 2012.
Asamoah Gyan will represent the Black Stars greatest goal threat once again. As a man who scored more than 30 goals for his club last season, and was regularly on the scoresheet in the South African World Cup, that is not such a surprise. With Gyan being Ghana’s main forward, a lot will depend on his ability to adapt to high-level competition quickly, as the first game Appiah’s side play, against the USA, is pivotal.
Ghana have been placed in a cruel group. Making it out of this group for the third consecutive time will be a huge success. Sadly, the Black Stars will be exiting the competition at the first stage.

 

United States.

After losing the first game in the CONCACAF qualifiers, questions arose over Klinsmann’s regime. A win over Costa Rica helped The Stars and Stripes get on track while securing qualification in September with a 2-0 victory over Mexico.
The squad that the United States are expected to take to Brazil are a gritty group, brimming with experience, energy and enormous work-rate. Klinsmann has created a togetherness within this squad which not many teams in this tournament can match .
However, the everlasting problem of a real lack of cutting edge bugs Klinsmann’s team. They are without any real impetus in the final third and don’t have a player with the ability to unlock stubborn defences. Clint Dempsey is a proven goal scorer, but not overly creative or capable of playing that killer pass.
Michael Bradley, the AS Roma midfield enforcer probably typifies the tenacity and industrious nature of this American side more than any other player. He is their key player. Bradley is a player who is making a name for himself as a box-to-box midfielder; consistent in the tackle, a strong runner and neat and tidy in possession . His role will be crucial when the USMNT come up against technically superior sides and he offers a good defensive shield which allows the like of Dempsey to go and effect the game.
Klinsmann’s understands the big competitions, and America’s experience on the World Cup stage will no doubt aid their conquest to escape the “group of death” but the lack of a top class playmaker will see them struggle to progress any further. A group stage exit is almost certain.