NEWS
A selection of FirstTouch's best football writing, brought to you by emerging journalists, collaborators, and fans.
Will this be Leicester’s strongest season in the Premier League since their 2016 Championship?
How tameable if at all, are Brendan Rodgers’ Foxes this 2019/20 Premier League season? Not so much is the short answer.
Leicester reacts to Leicester City's Premier League Title Success on May 03, 2016 in Leicester, England.
(May 2, 2016 - Source: Matthew Lewis/Getty Images Europe)
Be afraid, be very afraid!
With Arsenal on the ropes and down on the floor, a familiar foe was standing right over their carcasses; Jamie Vardy. Two goals for the English international in a 3-0 victory for the Foxes meant that the Gunners had officially become his favorite customer. With a tally of 8 goals against them in the Premier League, against no else has he scored more. Rodgers' boys had not only inflicted a third loss in three matches for Emery's charges; but pulled off a Thanos and the magical stones on them. With 3 snaps of the fingers, more of rippling of the net in this context, Arsenal's hopes of finishing in the top four had vanished into thin air, almost at the speed of Leicester light or sound of their red agonies. The Foxes themselves had almost nothing to lose but plenty of pride to gain. A top 7 finish was almost out of reach given how well Wolves and Everton had performed in the preceding month leading to the fixture. Rather, on that 28th of April 2019, a bloody message had been imprinted on plain tables with the claws of a Fox, "they were coming for all of them when the season restarts." This time not as Foxes wearing sheep clothing, as they did in the 2015/16 when they won the Premier League title with odds of 5,000-1. But as the real deal, untamed and unleashed!
Statistically 3rd best in the Premier League?
Back to the main question, could 2019/20 really be Leicester's strongest season since winning the title in 2016? Well, the short answer is an emphatic yes! Just for kicks, since the appointment of former Liverpool manager in February of 2019, only champions Manchester City and European champions Liverpool have won more Premier League points than the King Power residents. Not a bad company to keep. If we are to extrapolate this historical data, we learn that it's pretty realistic for them to finish 3rd behind the aforementioned two. Not to worry, we are not putting all our eggs in that one basket, there is more wind in their sails, but first; let's look at how they've started.
“Upfront, we all know what they’ve got; some good old English speed and killer instincts in Jamie Vardy. The befitting introduction to this piece. The 32-year-old scored 14 goals in 17 Premier League appearances since the arrival of Rodgers on March 3. Only Aubameyang and Mane came close to that record with 12 goals each. ”
Jamie Vardy and James Maddison of Leicester City applauds fans after the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Leicester City at Anfield on October 05, 2019 in Liverpool, United Kingdom.
(Oct. 4, 2019 - Source: FELIPE TRUEBA/Getty Images Europe)
Foxes don't false start
At the time of writing this piece, Leicester were in 4th place, just two points off second-placed Manchester City. It had only been 8/38 games into the season but the table quite accurately told how the 20 teams had fared. The Foxes in particular could have been higher up the pecking order given their performances had been miles, better than the results. That rampant display against Arsenal at the close of the 2018/19 season was indeed no clouds without rain. In their first 8 matches of the new campaign, they lost only two.
A narrow 0-1 lost at Manchester United and 1-2 away at Liverpool. In the latter, the Reds actually needed a 90+5 Milner penalty to get all 3 points and register a successive 17th Premier League win. They were unlucky not to get a win at Chelsea after coming from behind to take the game to the Blues and eventually secured a point. At home against Tottenham, the Foxes soundly beat the 2019 Champions League finalists by a 2-1 scoreline. Also included in the 8 games is an emphatic 5-0 win over Newcastle. Clearly, they look more than ready for the challenge. Super competitive against the big guns and ruthless when matched up with the so called lesser opposition.
Wilfried Ndidi of Leicester in action during the pre-season friendly match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Leicester City at Molineux on July 29, 2017 in Wolverhampton, England.
(July 28, 2017 - Source: Michael Regan/Getty Images Europe)
A well balanced and vicious squad
The mix is just right. It's no fluke that they've performed the way they did. After Manchester City and Liverpool, Leicester arguably boast of the most balanced squad. Forget the price tags, star names and focus on the word "balanced." Let's actually look at how they line-up. Even after losing Harry Maguire to Manchester United in a world record deal for a defender, Johhny Evans and Caglar Soyuncü look like a good combination of experience and youth. No wonder they've conceded only 7 goals, a 2nd best record in the division after Liverpool and tied with Sheffield United.
The modern game is all about full-backs flying up and down the flanks, and the Foxes have two of the best in the division. Ben Chilwell who is mostly preferred by Gareth Southgate in the current England setup and the dynamic Ricardo Perreira who recorded the 4th highest tackles in the league last season. Wait, did we forget Schmeichel? The skipper goalkeeper needs no introduction and his sure displays in goal has him continue staking a claim among the best there is. From the middle of the park and going forward, they're even better. All of the 22-year-old Nigerian international, Wilfried Ndidi who has consistently and statistically been among the top two tacklers in the league since the 2017/18 season, the £40 million signing in Youri Tielemans and Newcastle top goal scorer from last season in Ayoze Perez; provide depth and options. Time will not allow us to exhaust the insurmountable talents of Harvey Barnes, Hamza Choudhury, Demarai Gray, Marc Albrighton or the man from Sampdoria, Dennis Praet and maybe everyone's favorite, the puppet master who pulls all the strings, James Maddison. But the point is more than clear, their midfield is loaded!
Upfront, we all know what they've got; some good old English speed and killer instincts in Jamie Vardy. The befitting introduction to this piece. The 32-year-old scored 14 goals in 17 Premier League appearances since the arrival of Rodgers on March 3. Only Aubameyang and Mane came close to that record with 12 goals each. Even as a backup, the former Manchester City and Nigerian forward in Kelechi Iheanacho could be lethal enough if afforded the opportunity. It get's even more interesting when we learn about the ingenuity of the man who organizes them.
Brendan Rodgers, Manager of Leicester City celebrates victory with Wes Morgan of Leicester City after the Premier League match between Leicester City and AFC Bournemouth at The King Power Stadium on March 30, 2019 in Leicester, United Kingdom.
(March 29, 2019 - Source: Michael Regan/Getty Images Europe)
They've got Rodgers, Brendan Rodgers!
Let's get one thing clear, joining Leicester is not a step up for the Irishman but a step up for the club. Brendan Rodgers' CV is up there for everyone to see and his talents are no strange to the Premier League. Jurgen Klopp is not the first man to bring Liverpool within touching distance of the league title since 1989-90, Rodgers did it in the 2013/14 campaign. Only needing two wins to clinch the coveted prize, the Reds blew up a 3-0 lead to draw 3-3 at Crystal Palace that effectively handed the Premier League title to Manchester City. How good a job the now 46 year-old had done in that race cannot be overemphasized. He bloodied the likes of Raheem Sterling and set-up Luis Suarez for worldwide success.
Rodgers' next job at Celtic was more silverish and fruitful, winning the Scottish treble twice between 2016-18 In all, he left Scotland with 7 titles in 3 years to his name. In feeding their ambition, calling upon the tactician is almost as good an appointment as it gets. Even more, Rodgers himself returns with a slight knack to prove a point in the Premier League after Liverpool gave him the sack. It's the intersection of ambition. Little wonder they've already upped their game; the manager knows the league, knows how to win and has great experience working with young English players which Leicester have in abundance.
If you want be a little bit cynical, you could argue that amongst the so called big 6 teams, perhaps only four have better managers as per their CVs. United's Solskjaer and Chelsea's Lampard have been barely tested but we won't hinge on that, knowing it doesn't always work like that.
Right place at the right time, as traditionally top sides falter
Leicester as a club tested the highest glory, liked the smell and have always been back for more ever since. They've sacked managers such as the Premier League winning manager himself, Claudio Ranieri, Craig Shakespeare and Claude Puel for doing only enough to stay in the top flight. Their boldness has perhaps seen fortune knocking on their door. For the first time in quite a number of years, the traditional big 6 sides look shaken.
Jamie Vardy of Leicester City (l) celebrates after scoring the first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Leicester City at St. James Park on September 29, 2018 in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom.
(Sept. 28, 2018 - Source: Stu Forster/Getty Images Europe)
Obviously not Liverpool and highly doubtful of City even after starting the campaign very strangely losing to Wolves and Norwich. Manchester United are languishing in the bottom half of the table and their young and unbalanced squad look like they would have punched way above their weight if they finish within the top 6. It looks like 3rd place will be Arsenal's to lose as we may need rocket science to understand what's really going on at Tottenham, and the young Chelsea side look no better than the Foxes. Wolves who finished above Leicester last campaign look burdened by Europa League commitments and West Ham seem decent with record signing Sebastian Haller up top and the talents of Yarmolenko, Lanzini somewhere in the mix; but even Premier League winner in Manuel Pellegrini is still pondering on how to fix his defence. What about other last season's big performers in Everton and Watford? At this point, they both look like they are fighting just for their lives. The former were in 18th place after 8 games and the latter rock-bottom in 20th, courtesy of non-existent strike force and managerial crisis respectively, howbeit amongst many other things.
Foxing their way through
With all of an extremely talented and balanced squad, tactically astute manager, an ambitious board and the vulnerable state of state of the top 6, the stage looks set for the 2015/16 Premier League champions to fox their way through. Well, except if other sides exponentially improve their performances. At this rate, the Foxes are unlikely going to wait for that to happen but rather continually go for the jagular!
Is Manchester City’s success just a reflection of their bank account?
The 19/20 Premier League season resulted in a domestic treble in for Pep and Manchester, including a second successive top-flight league title. Is it all just because they have the only squad valued at over $1 billion in the entire world, or because of the Pep-effect?
Manchester City has been reported to be the most valuable club in the English Premier League. Pep
Guardiola’s current squad cost £702 million to assemble; the highest of any other club in Europe. City are current EPL Champions and favorites to compete for the title this season, currently sitting in second place behind Liverpool. In the five years between 2015- 2019, the only clubs that spent more than City are Juventus and Barcelona. Guardiola’s men won the domestic treble last season further cementing their position among Europe’s elite but their financial endowment has worked hand in glove with Guardiola’s visionary leadership.
Pep Guardiola looks on during the Pro Am for the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth on May 23, 2018 in Virginia Water, England.
(May 22, 2018 - Source: Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images Europe)
Josep Guardiola, the manager who lacks nothing
Guardiola’s prolific career spans over three of Europe's best leagues and major successes in each one of those leagues earned him recognition among the most accomplished managers in history. He won the La Liga four times with Barcelona and the treble. In Germany, he had similar success winning Bundesliga for three consecutive years. Barcelona, Bayern, and Man City are all large clubs with big budgets to sign players. Throughout this managerial career, Guardiola has had a huge financial backing to construct the best teams that the leagues have seen. Pep Guardiola’s impact at Manchester City has surpassed previous managers in both achievements and expenditure.
Manchester does not spare the cost to buy players and this led to their Premier League rival, Jurgen Klopp claiming that Manchester City lived in a “fantasy land”. Klopp himself has spent much less than Guardiola since taking over as a manager at Anfield. Arguably, when a manager has access to all the financial resources they need, there is more room for success without having to make it work with less talented players. Guardiola has spent more at Manchester City than at Barcelona and Bayern Munich combined. The reason behind this being the need to rejuvenate the squad after coming to a team of 11 players over the age of 30 according to the Spaniard. Most of their players have each costed the team between €50 and 100 million showing that they do not have to be conservative when they want a player. The Cityzens have not made nearly as much selling players as they spent buying. They spent around £500 million net in the last five years whereas Liverpool made profits of selling the likes of Phillippe Coutinho. Money is just not an issue for Manchester City which justifies their freedom to recruit talented players at a premium. Many of the Man City signings have succeeded at the Etihad and have been part and parcel of the outstanding overall success of the club in the past few years.
“Sheikh Mansour’s investments into the club have exceeded £1.4 billion which has essentially contributed to turn Manchester City into a European powerhouse that spares no cost in buying the top-rated players.”
Bernardo Silva of Manchester City celebrates with teammates after scoring his team's third goal during the Group F match of the UEFA Champions League between FC Shakhtar Donetsk and Manchester City at Metalist Stadium on October 23, 2018 in Kharkov, Ukraine.
(Oct. 22, 2018 - Source: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images Europe)
Most Expensive Manchester City signings
Let’s just quickly look at some of their high profile signings.
#10 - Eliaquim Mangala, £42 million
The French center-back joined City in 2014 but failed to have an impact in defence. He has spent most of his time at City on loan to Everton and Valencia. The 28-year old was signed by Manuel Pellegrini and did not make it to Pep Guardiola’s first team.
#9 - Bernardo Silva, £43 million
City signed Bernardo Silva in July 2017 from Ligue 1 powerhouse Monaco, after he had helped the French team secure a league title and a semi-finals spot in the Champions League. The Portuguese playmaker won Man City’s player of the season in his second season at the Etihad.
#8 - Raheem Sterling, £44 million
Then 20-year old Sterling made his high profile move from Liverpool in 2015. Since his arrival at Etihad, he’s been progressively becoming better each season for City with his best campaign in 2017/2018 season where he netted 23 goals and created 17 assists in 46 games.
#7 - Kyle Walker, £45 million
Kyle Walker made his move to Manchester City from Spurs in 2017 on a five-year contract. The former Tottenham player has been touted to be on the way out after Pep Guardiola signed João Cancelo from Juventus this year.
#6 - John Stones, £47.5 million
Stones joined City from Everton to Manchester City in 2016. The English defender was signed for a wholesome £47.5 million price tag. The 25-year old is the first choice center-back for the English national team and has turned out to be a good investment for Manchester City.
Sergio Aguero of Manchester City celebrates with the Community Shield trophy following his side's victory during the FA Community Shield between Manchester City and Chelsea at Wembley Stadium on August 5, 2018 in London, England.
(Aug. 4, 2018 - Source: Clive Mason/Getty Images Europe)
#5 - Benjamin Mendy, £52 million
Mendy was signed from Monaco on a five-year contract in 2017, breaking the record at the time for the most expensive full-back. One of the most expensive defenders in the League, Mendy has had a series of injuries that have kept him from playing much at Manchester City.
#4 - Kevin De Bruyne £54 million
The Belgian has been at the club since 2015. Since signing a 6-year contract to switch from Wolfsburg to Manchester City, De Bruyne is now a key figure on the pitch as City’s playmaker. The 28-year-old midfielder currently stands at 50 assists for the Blues.
#3 - Aymeric Laporte £57 million
The French defender has been crucial to the Manchester City defence since his arrival in 2018 from Atletico Bilbao. Laporte’s exploits in the EPL has resulted in him being regarded as the second-best center-back in the league behind, 2019 UEFA Men’s Player of the Year in Virgil Van Dijk.
#2 - Riyad Mahrez £60 million
Leicester City’s former talisman became a City player for £60 million, a price tag that made him the first player to break the £60 million mark for the club in 2018. He has been one of the best players for Manchester City this season, taking advantage of Leroy Sane’s injury to prove his worth.
#1 - Rodri £62 million
Coming from Atletico Madrid, the midfielder is expected to take the place of 34-year old Fernaninho as a key figure in City’s midfield. The rated player came at a premium because of his reputation and instinct with the ball. Rodri’s contribution to the team is most critical when Fernandinho retires.
Manchester City’s humble beginnings
City have not always had the enormous financial resources they have today and was an outsider to the elite clubs of Europe. The club’s fortunes turned when the current Manchester City owner, billionaire businessman and member of the Abu Dhabi royal family, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan bought the club in 2008. City won three league titles and made record profits since its change of ownership into the Abu Dhabi billionaires’ hands.
Before coming into the picture, Manchester City was far from being a championship team constantly finishing mid-table. His investment has largely been responsible for taking City from mid-table regulars to league title winners. The investment has gone into extensions to the Etihad Stadium state of the art facilities. Sheikh Mansour’s investments into the club have exceeded £1.4 billion which has essentially contributed to turn Manchester City into a European powerhouse that spares no cost in buying the top-rated players. In the 11 years since buying the club, City has won 9 trophies and 3 league titles. City’s success gained the English team, fans across the globe and catapulted them to the position of the most valuable club in the Premier League. The money has also been coming in for City with an annual turnover of £581 million earning, £9 million behind top earners and rivals Manchester United who bagged £590 million in the most recent year.
Bernardo Silva of Manchester City controls the ball under pressure from Georginio Wijnaldum of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Manchester City at Anfield on October 7, 2018 in Liverpool, United Kingdom.
(Oct. 6, 2018 - Source: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images Europe)
Manchester City and Liverpool Rivalry
Jurgen Klopp and Guardiola have to battle it out this season for the league title. Liverpool has been on a near-perfect run which has cemented their chances of taking the title from rivals City. Manchester’s luck has fallen through, falling behind Liverpool by 8 points. The biggest challenge that the club is facing happens to be a shaky defence that has made critical mistakes, costing the champions six points against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Norwich. Aymeric Laporte’s injury has been a major setback as the first choice center-back who will need more time on the sidelines, recovering from a meniscus injury picked up early on in the season.
Guardiola has had to find a temporary suitable combination, which has meant that his defence needed to adjust, pairing up with players they had not been used to playing with. John Stones and Kyle Walker have taken the baton alongside the ageing duo of Nicholas Otamendi. Joao Cancelo, City’s record signing full-back has not played a major role this season as Guardiola’s first-choice. The current defence lacks depth which could cost City the title, as Liverpool charge on, eight points ahead of the champions. Fernandinho moved into the defensive position this season, making a way in the midfield for new signing Rodri. The switch has been far from stable at times, the Brazilian proving that his natural position is in midfield.
Sergio Aguero and Nicolas Otamendi with the Premier league trophy after the Premier League match between Manchester City and Huddersfield Town at Etihad Stadium on May 6, 2018 in Manchester, England.
(May 5, 2018 - Source: Michael Regan/Getty Images Europe)
Conclusion
The biggest clubs in the world are usually well endowed with the financial capacity to buy players without sparing the cost. The elite clubs have the cash to continue buying the players that the manager needs and at Manchester City, Pep Guardiola has been no different. It’s true that the Spaniard, has been fortunate to have financial access for most of his managerial career and has used this privilege to create some of the best teams, the football world has ever seen including the current Manchester City squad.
To respond to the question, “Is Manchester City’s success just a reflection of their bank account?’’ The short answer is yes. They have been transformed by their access to financial resources via the Arab world. A big part of why the Cityzens have been able to succeed is a reflection of their bank account but Guardiola’s touch has also contributed immensely. Let’s face it, you also need to know which players to buy and how to organize them.
UEFA Champions League Preview (Matchday 2): Group C
Atalanta vs Shaktar
Manchester City vs Dinamo Zagreb
Duvan Zapata of Atalanta BC celebrates his goal with his team-mates during the Coppa Italia match between Atalanta BC and Juventus at Stadio Atleti Azzurri d'Italia on January 30, 2019 in Bergamo, Italy.
(Jan. 29, 2019 - Source: Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images Europe
Group C
Atalanta vs Shakhtar Donetsk– Tuesday, 01 October 2019
Baptism of fire, that’s what Atalanta got on their long-awaited, emotional and fairy-tale return to the Champions League. La Dea were possibly at their worst, with a timid performance that saw them lose 0-4 at the hands of Zagreb in Croatia. They have however not capitulated after that, responding with two impressive Serie A wins, 0-2 away at Roma and the recent 4-1 thrashing of Sassuolo. Gasperini’s men will now take two when they welcome the Ukrainians on Tuesday and with the Colombian Zapata in sizzling form, Shakhtar could find themselves in the firing line.
To be fair to the Ukrainian champions, they have been quite decent in their European matches in the past seasons. They could be forgiven for losing 0-3 to Manchester City on matchday 1 but would be expected and are good enough to get a result in Italy. The question will be on whether they can sustain their opposition’s momentum and desire to prove themselves on the biggest stage.
Manchester City vs Dinamo Zagreb– Tuesday, 01 October 2019
It looks obvious on paper but not so much in reality.
City have since picked themselves up from their shocking 2-3 loss at bottom of the league Norwich, with victories such as an 8-0 dragging of Watford, 3-0 win at high flying Championship side, Preston North End and most recently a late 3-1 win at Everton. In particular, the Algerian captain and AFCON 2019 champion, Riyad Mahrez has re-captured his Leicester form and looks like a new signing for the English champions.
On the other hand, the Croatian champions lie at the top of Group C for a reason. Dinamo Zagreb crushed Atalanta on opening night with a 4-0 scoreline and their league form hasn’t suggested they have put off their foot off the pedal, lying only a point off leaders Hajduk Split in the league. It obviously will be a clash, a level up what they have been involved within recent weeks, but quite capable of getting a result as well. After all, Lyon did it at Etihad last season.
UEFA Champions League Preview (Matchday 1): Group C
Shakhtar Donetsk vs Manchester City
Dinamo Zagreb vs Atalanta
Riyad Mahrez of Manchester City shoots during the Group F match of the UEFA Champions League between FC Shakhtar Donetsk and Manchester City at Metalist Stadium on October 23, 2018 in Kharkov, Ukraine.
(Oct. 22, 2018 - Source: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images Europe)
Shakhtar Donetsk vs Manchester City- Wednesday 19 September 2019
The Ukrainian champions who are sitting comfortably at the top of their domestic league after registering 7 wins in 7 opening matches welcome their favorite UCL group stage opponent in recent years, Manchester City. These two have been drawn together in each of the past 2 seasons with Man City dominating the fixture, a 9-0 aggregate scoreline recorded last campaign is a good example. Shakhtar have also gotten one over City, a 2-1 home win in the 2017/18 campaign that ended the English Champions’ unbeaten run in all competitions. After being shockingly beat by Norwich over the weekend, Pep’s men will be keen to quickly get back to winning terms but it’s all obviously easier said than done.
Dinamo Zagreb vs Atalanta- Wednesday 19 September 2019
The Croatian First Football League champions, Dinamo Zagreb will welcome perhaps Europe’s most adored football club right now, Atalanta. “The Goddess” will be making their champions league debut since the rebranding of the tournament. The Serie A side has enjoyed a remarkable rise in the past 2-3 seasons after swinging on the relegation pendulum for a while, most profoundly finishing 3rd in the last season ahead of the two Milan clubs and 2017/18 UCL semi-finalists, Roma. Gasperini’s men clearly had their eyes projected to this fixture as they battled to a nervy 2-1 league victory over Genoa in the weekend and most eyes will be on them as they visit relatively UCL regulars, Zagreb, who have relished a near perfect start to their domestic title defence.
English Premier League: Who will challenge for European football?
The world’s favorite league is back with bang. Eager to look at who will likely finish above the rest this campaign? We got you, we have rounded most of the promising sides who could push for titles and European football in the new season.
Bernardo Silva of Manchester City celebrates with teammates after scoring his team's third goal during the Group F match of the UEFA Champions League between FC Shakhtar Donetsk and Manchester City at Metalist Stadium on October 23, 2018 in Kharkov, Ukraine.
(Oct. 22, 2018 - Source: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images Europe)
This week saw the 2019/20 EPL season kick off and needless to say the race for the title has begun. The league table has already started tallying points and we can finally start talking league standings, silverware and of course, European football. Last season England set its mark on Europe last with exceptional class acts that gave us two all English European finals and the Super Cup match up. The top teams will once again take their ambitions to Europe where English teams have once again become a force to be reckoned with. Promising summer windows for some of the clubs including Arsenal, Everton and a nonexistent one for Chelsea after a ban from the transfer window and also looking at the pre-season form of the teams, we’ve had a peak at their fortunes this upcoming season and picked teams that have a chance of winning some European football next season.
POSSIBLE 2019/2020 TOP FOUR
Tottenham Hotspur
Last season finish: 4th
The combination of having more elite players and managers has propelled the once more average teams into big powerhouses. Tottenham represents this metamorphosis better than any other; the emergence of the club as a top flight club in Europe has been due to over the years have put in some quality efforts and consistency from the North Londoners. Mauricio Pochettino’s men look set to bag another top four finish, a fact that seemed inconceivable only a few seasons ago. In fact, Arsenal fans made St. Tottenham’s Day, in celebration of something that seemed so routine for years; finishing above Spurs in the league. Undoubtedly, Spurs have handed Arsenal fans a bitter pill to swallow while simultaneously gaining prominence in Europe not only for their exploits in England but for a brilliant UEFA Champions League campaign and a first final in that competition. The season brings new challenges of whether they can hold on to talents like Christian Eriksen who is on the radar of big European clubs like Real Madrid. Champions League also on the agenda this season, Spurs will come out blazing in hopes to finally secure the league title.
“Last season, the newcomers did more than just turn a few heads, knocking a few egos along the way as well and managing an absolutely hard-earned seventh-place finish. Nuno Espirito Santo’s men will once more hope to ruffle the feathers at the top this season and qualify for Europe ”
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal celebrates with his tem mate Mesut Ozil after scoring his team's first goalduring the Joan Gamper trophy friendly match between FC Barcelona and Arsenal at Nou Camp on August 04, 2019 in Barcelona, Spain.
(Aug. 3, 2019 - Source: Getty Images Europe)
Liverpool
Last season finish: 2nd
Last year’s UEFA Champions League winners Liverpool are the most successful English team in the European competitions. Yet at the moment, it almost seems as if Liverpool can have the most outstanding seasons with unbeaten runs and the most excellent formations and squads and still lose out in the dying moments. The second place curse, as it’s dubbed, is the cause of many frustrations for the YNWA faithful. However, Jurgen Klopp has in times past proven his managerial competence and last year’s UEFA Champions League win is enough evidence that Liverpool have what it takes to take the title this year. Breaking from this pattern of disappointing finishes in the league will be the main goal for Klopp. Liverpool are formidable against any side in the Premier League and with the club’s biggest assets still on the roster, they are undoubtedly close favorites to the title together with City.
Manchester City
Last season finish: 1st
Manchester City go into the season with the possibility of winning a third EPL title in three years straight. City are the most compact, have the strongest and solid attack; that is hardly frazzled champions of the English Premier League. City have been a winning formula and that still largely remains undisrupted. Jose Mourinho commented that he believed Manchester City’s B-team could quite easily challenge for the title. For starters, English international who can as well start on the bench, Raheem Sterling started the season with a hat trick against West Ham and more performances of that level from the forward can as well hand the Citizens yet another title.
Chelsea
Last season finish: 3rd
Richarlison of Everton celebrates with teammates after scoring his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Everton FC at Molineux on August 11, 2018 in Wolverhampton, United Kingdom.
(Aug. 10, 2018 - Source: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images Europe)
Frank Lampard’s Chelsea have received a blow to the start of their Premier League campaign. The 4-0 loss to Manchester United at Old Trafford is as an undesirable outcome. Frank Lampard his youthful side do not have the experience warranted to deliver Chelsea their title hopes. Despite this, Chelsea is definitely one of the teams that have the biggest potential, ironically because of the fresh talent in the squad. Lampard has a big task with Chelsea and together with his youthful side, all have something to prove. The rebuild for Lampard will take some time and as such we should not expect much from them. Chelsea will need to work on giving the young players the confidence they need to play at the level of the EPL. They might end in the top four if there the experience of other long standing players on the squad comes to the party.
Arsenal and Manchester United
Last season finish: 5th and 6th
Arsenal and Manchester United’s Red Devils are likely to be beating down at each other’s doors again this season gunning for a top four finish against their much solid counterparts. Unai Emery and Arsenal lost to Chelsea in the final of the 2018/19 Europa league, showing that they do have the world class players they need to inject the much needed attacking potent but a shambolic defence. Arsenal may now have a real chance with Nicolas Pepe, the club’s record signing coupled with Aubameyang’s goal scoring prowess and David Luiz’s defensive experience. After going on a signature spending spree that saw United signing Harry Maguire, Daniel James and Aaron Wan-Bissaka for £146million, the main goal would be to finish in the top four. After managing to revive United’s fortunes last season, all eyes will be on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to see if he can take United into a future where they once again dominate the EPL.
PONTENTIAL FROM OUTSIDE THE TOP SIX
Diogo Jota of Wolverhampton Wanderers celebrates with teammates after scoring his team's second goal during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Chelsea FC at Molineux on December 5, 2018 in Wolverhampton, United Kingdom.
(Dec. 4, 2018 - Source: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images Europe)
Everton
Last season finish: 8th
Football in Europe is the crowning of any English club into the club of champions which has been exclusive to the top six. A team that unsurprisingly could shake up the top four this season are Everton. Shaking things up is Everton, who have set themselves up for a strong chase with their summer signings. Marco Silva’s new personnel are likely going to play significant role in the club’s European football ambitions. One of them is Moise Kean, the nineteen-year-old striker from Juventus, who is one of the most promising young talents in Europe at the moment. Kean’s signing from Juventus has been seen as the remedy for Everton’s attack which has not been the same post Lukaku’s exit to Old Trafford in 2017. Nigerian midfielder, Alex Iwobi joins former Arsenal teammate Theo Walcott at Everton. Iwobi’s £28 million move to the Blues has come at a time for him to prove his impact in the big game and will be eager to prove his worth. Andres Gomes from Barcelona also joins the Blues to round off a brilliant transfer window for Everton. The Blues are likely to shake be knocking on the top six’s door if they perform to the standard.
Jamie Vardy of Leicester City (l) celebrates after scoring the first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Leicester City at St. James Park on September 29, 2018 in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom.
(Sept. 28, 2018 - Source: Stu Forster/Getty Images Europe)
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Last season finish: 7th
Merciless and on the chase for a spot in European football next year. Wolves will be looking to bash it out with the top six. Last season, the newcomers did more than just turn a few heads, knocking a few egos along the way as well and managing an absolutely hard earned seventh place finish. Nuno Esperinto Santo’s men will once more hope to ruffle the feathers at the top this season and qualify for Europe once more after nudging their way into the Europa League this season courtesy of Manchester City’s double qualification as league winners and FA Cup victors. Wolves have had a busy summer, releasing and signing new players including club record signing Raul Jimenez from Benfica who will stay on permanently after a succesful loan spell last season and Patrick Cutrone from AC Millan.
Leicester City
Last season finish: 9th
Leicester City manager, Brendan Rodgers maybe the right man to take the Foxes into a top six finish. The manager has been focused on creating a top flight team for Leicester City once again. The transfer window was a chance for the former Celtic manager to rebuild the squad after departures by key players such as Riyad Mahrez. This summer, Harry Maguire’s move to Manchester United for £80 million exposed Foxes to another loss of a key player. However, signings of Belgian midfielder Youri Tielemans who spent last season a loan from AC Monaco and striker Ayoze Perez from Newcastle could cover some of the gaps. Leicester City talisman and top goal scorer Jamie Vardy will provide the experience while the addition of young energy into the squad will allow for a dynamic squad that could potentially qualify for the Europa League next season.
West Ham
Last season finish: 10th
Declan Rice of West Ham United celebrates scoring the winning goal with team mates during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Arsenal FC at London Stadium on January 12, 2019 in London, United Kingdom.
(Jan. 11, 2019 - Source: Marc Atkins/Getty Images Europe)
West Ham who also managed to finish in the top half of the table last year. The question is how will they fair against the big teams this season. After a disappointing start to the season, losing to Manchester City 5-0, the Hammers will look to rebuild their confidence with wins against smaller teams lined up. West Ham had moments where they looked like a top 10 team last season, beating out Manchester United and Arsenal. The Londoners have however suffered a blow to their attack after losing Arnautovic to the pull of the Chinese Super League. Manuel Pellegrini’s task this season is undoubtedly to fish out the quality performances from the team in the face of the bigger teams in the league. The former Manchester City manager has to make crucial improvements in the back which will serve Hammers well in their campaign. West Ham could edge up wards in the league, only if luck would have it.
The Premier League is set to be a magnificent one. With 380 matches this season, with the bulk of them still to be played, there’s a long way to go before we crown the league champions. If past Premier League seasons are anything to go by, it’s a road packed with dramatic goals, unexpected injuries that get in the way.
Comment with the team you think will take the title this year?
How will the English Premier League's "Big 6" rank this season?
FT’s own Siphosethu has thrown his predictions into the hat regarding the final placement of the “Big 6” on the English Premier League table come May 2020 and Arsenal fans won’t be quite impressed. How do you think they will fare? Or will perhaps an underdog creep in and still any of the spot?
Manchester City Manager Josep Guardiola on stage during the Manchester City Trophy Parade in Manchester city centre on May 14, 2018 in Manchester, England.
(May 13, 2018 - Source: Lynne Cameron/Getty Images Europe)
Preamble
The return of the English Premier League has been longed for by most football fanatics and it's just a matter of days before we witness the resumption of the biggest and most exciting league in world football. Reminiscing on how good the previous season was, one can’t help but imagine how better the upcoming season will be. As expected; various teams will be having various objectives coming into the new season and unsurprisingly, the main focus will be on what has been known as “The big six” in Manchester City, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea, Manchester United and the Arsenal. The current champions Manchester City will be hoping to add to their seemingly increasing trophy cabinet, but will face intense competition from rivals Liverpool who will be looking to avenge the misfortunes of the previous season where they did all they could to win the league but it was simply not enough. Meanwhile, the rest of the top six clubs will be looking to stamp their authority and force their way into the top two and ultimately challenge for the title. Below we preview the return of the league and the possible outcome of the top six teams, nine months from now.
Manchester City
It is without a shadow of doubt that last season’s top two teams will be the two teams gunning for the league title this season. Being miles ahead of the rest of the top six teams, Manchester City and Liverpool will only be hoping to replicate last season’s form and will only get better. To show their intentions on remaining dominant, Pep Guardiola has already made a statement of not backing down by strengthening the side in a critical position that is central to the way City plays. That is the acquisition of record signing Rodri to potentially replace the ever dependable Fernandinho in the holding midfield role. Nonetheless, it remains to be seen what effect Vincent Kompany's departure will have on City next season considering that the club have not signed a replacement for their talismanic former captain. As it stands, provided City don't sign a new centre-back, they will go into the new campaign with just three recognised senior central defenders in Aymeric Laporte, John Stones and Nicolas Otamendi. Nevertheless, the commanding presence of Aymeric Laporte at the back, coupled with the massive work rate from Kyle Walker, and the potential return of injury-prone left back Benjamin Mendy, should be enough to ensure that City's defense remains solid, though the addition of a new centre back stays crucially important. Alternatively, there have been rumours that Pep Guardiola might shift Fernandinho to the centre back position at some point. As such, one cannot rule out that possibility, especially considering the fact that Pep has been one tactically innovative coach who has had several successful experiments undertaken throughout the course of his managerial career. All in all, City all but look like they might go all the way once again and win it.
Liverpool manager, Jurgen Klopp during a Liverpool press conference ahead of their UEFA Champions League Group C match against SSC Napoli at Melwood Training Ground on December 10, 2018 in Liverpool, United Kingdom.
(Dec. 9, 2018 - Source: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images Europe)
Liverpool
When you’re playing in the English Premier League and managed to amass a total of 97 points during the season surely you likely to win the league, right? Not necessarily, as Liverpool would attest. The Reds undoubtedly had one of the greatest campaigns in the club's illustrious history last season, winning the Champions League and coming within touching distance of a first-ever Premier League title since 1990. While they fell short last season, the Reds should be brimming with confidence going into the new season as they now surely know that the surest way of stealing the title from City is just to keep winning.
Liverpool have done pretty much the same as City in terms of strategy, save for the fact that they haven’t brought in any significant signings to strengthen the team further. However, Klopp will now be able to call upon the likes of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Joe Gomez, Rhian Brewster and Adam Lallana, who all missed large chunks of last season through injury. So much so that, the quartet will act as new signings as alluded by the German. The team’s ability to keep their crucial three frontmen is commendable and shows a key element of continuity and belief in what the club can achieve. Furthermore, the return of players such as Adam Lallana and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain from long injury layoffs will enhance the team’s depth especially considering the team’s rather lack of activity in the current transfer window. Nevertheless, Liverpool’s depth remains no match to City’s and considering that the team’s front three of Salah, Mane and Firmino played more than 90% of the team’s games, a cause for concern may arise in the event that one of these players gets injured as it might take some time for a suitable replacement to gel with the rest of the players. Still, the Reds remain huge title favourites especially if they are able to remain injury-free throughout the season.
Frank Lampard, Manager of Chelsea arrives at the stadium prior to the Pre-Season Friendly match between Bohemians FC and Chelsea FC at Dalymount Park on July 10, 2019 in Dublin, Ireland.
(July 9, 2019 - Source: Getty Images Europe)
Chelsea
Meanwhile, Chelsea, going through a host of changes during the current pre-season, will be hoping to remain in the top four whilst smoothly adjusting to the new philosophy coming in with club legend and new coach Frank Lampard. Being his first season as coach in the top flight league, much will be expected from the much loved Lampard and all eyes will be on him to ensure he is able to deliver with the players he has, especially considering Chelsea’s inability to sign new players until next summer. As such, Lampard will be hoping that a large number of his young players, most of whom have returned on loan from various clubs, will rise to the occasion and impress for the team. The likes of Mason Mount, Christian Pulisic and Tammy Abraham are expected to be heavily incorporated as key squad players that will be often called upon by Lampard to help the team. Furthermore, Lampard will be counting on the experience of players such as Kante and Azplicueta to settle the nerves of the many youngsters at the team’s disposal. However, the loss of Eden Hazard to Real Madrid has surely left a big hole in Chelsea’s attacking potent, and will require the club’s available attackers to rebrand their attacking style which has for a long time revolved around Hazard. What is worrying is that Chelsea have failed to find a reliable striker to bang in the goals since the departure of Diego Costa. Thus, Lampard might be forced to continue experimenting as he has done during pre-season, with the likes of Giroud, Batshuayi and Tammy Abraham all gunning to become the team’s frontman. While some are skeptical that Lampard’s lack of top flight experience might be exposed, others believe his appointment couldn’t have come at a better time where the team is looking to rebuild and transform itself once again, moving on from the much criticised ‘’Sarriball” which ironically got the team into the champions league one again, and further earned the team the Europa league trophy. Nevertheless, saying Chelsea are in for the title race might be too much of an ask especially considering the wholesale changes the club is going through. However, one cannot rule them out from producing a moment of magic and breaking into the top three. Nonetheless, being a transitional period for the club, Lampard will need time to make this Chelsea side gel and be able to compete. Therefore, anything more than a top-four finish and a decent Champions League run will most probably count as a bonus for the blues.
“Nevertheless, Liverpool’s depth remains no match to City’s and considering that the team’s front three of Salah, Mane and Firmino played more than 90% of the team’s games, a cause for concern may arise in the event that one of these players gets injured as it might take some time for a suitable replacement to gel with the rest of the players.”
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Manager of Manchester United is seen with a match ball prior to the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Manchester United at Molineux on April 02, 2019 in Wolverhampton, United Kingdom.
(April 1, 2019 - Source: Getty Images Europe)
Manchester United
United have failed to impose themselves on the summer transfer window with only Daniel James and Aaron Wan-Bissaka arriving to the team at the time of writing this article. What is worrying about this United side is that the team’s signings from last season failed to exert themselves. For instance, Fred looked out of place in the team and seemed to be struggling with confidence at times, while Diogo Dalot only showed glimpses of his potential as he was kept out of the side by a questionable Ashley Young. Fast forward to the new season, one would have hoped for a busy transfer market for United but it looks like it’s pretty much the same old story just a different season. While the team has done well to sign a long term replacement for Antonio Valencia at right back in Aaron Wan Bissaka, the Red Devils have struggled to make progress in resolving other issues in key positions such as the centre back position and central midfield. Having considered the most number of goals in a season in the club’s history last season, one would have thought United would make it their primary objective to resolve the team’s defence but until now it has been more talk and less action. The rumours of Harry Maguire and Kalidou Koulibaly coming into the team have remained just that; rumours and most United supporters will be worried going into the new season knowing that they might have to continue with the tried and tested options of Chris Smalling and Phil Jones both criticized for being suspects at the back. Worse, the departure of the hardworking Ander Herrera at the middle of the park has opened a huge hole in United’s midfield that will prove costly if the team fails to sign a new midfielder before the close of the transfer window. Perhaps the possible arrival of Paul Dybala as part of an exchange for Romelu Lukaku might ease supporters' hearts and provide a glimmer of hope for United. Until then, it is highly unlikely that United have enough depth to challenge the likes of City and Liverpool for the title and bring it back to the theatre of dreams.
Manager Unai Emery of Arsenal directs his players during the Joan Gamper trophy friendly match between FC Barcelona and Arsenal at Nou Camp on August 04, 2019 in Barcelona, Spain.
(Aug. 3, 2019 - Source: Getty Images Europe)
Arsenal
The challenges faced by United are not far-fetched from those faced by Arsenal. While most Gunners fans will be excited about the deadly attacking trio of new acquisition Nicolas Pepe, Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette, there are still worries defensively for the Gunners. What is alarming is that the club’s authorities seem to be priotritising the attack over defence where it is an open secret that Arsenal has dearly struggled. Signing a highly-rated young winger for £72 million is commendable, and so is beefing up of the midfield through signing Dani Ceballos, however, history has shown us that the way a defence is setup is key for teams that go on to win the league. It is no secret that perhaps the signing of Pepe is what the Gunners needed, as an upgrade to both Iwobi and Mkhitaryan. But one would have thought that the positions of greater concern right now would be the team’s defensive areas. Interesting enough, Arsenal looked like they were addressing the team’s defensive issues when they signed defender William Saliba for £27 million, only to loan him back to his former club St Etienne. Quite ironic if you ask me, especially considering that the futures of captain Laurent Koscielny and German defender Shkodran Mustafi, hang in the balance. Unless the club signs quality defenders, this season might prove to be no different for Arsenal. Worse, the team is also facing a leadership crisis considering the departure of Aaron Ramsey, the unending problems between Unai Emery and Mesut Ozil and most recently, Laurent Koscielny’s want away antics. All these issues might hamper the team’s progress, ambition and may merely force the team to resort to only focusing on a top six target.
Mauricio Pochettino, Manager of Tottenham Hotspur looks on prior to the Group B match of the UEFA Champions League between PSV and Tottenham Hotspur at Philips Stadion on October 24, 2018 in Eindhoven, Netherlands.
(Oct. 23, 2018 - Source: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images Europe)
Tottenham
After enduring a crushing defeat to Liverpool in the Champions League final, Tottenham Hotspur have a right to feel down, but as the summer has progressed, the club hierarchy have acted well, and acted fast in the market to bolster the squad which though strong, has lacked depth in the past. In particular, the signing of Tanguy Ndombele, a wanted man across the whole of Europe, was impressive. Furthermore, the team’s ability to keep most of their key players especially Harry Kane and Christian Eriksen, both of whom were linked with moves to Real Madrid, will be important for Spurs going into the new season. Though they might miss the versatility of Kieran John Trippier at the right back position, they do have capable players such as Serge Aurier who can step up and put in a strong performance. Overall, having adjusted to their new stadium, coupled with the stability within the team, one cannot be faulted for vouching for this Spurs side going into the new season. They might lack the experience of winning the league, but they certainly have the pedigree to go all the way, as they showed us in the Champions League. Rule them out at your own peril.
So, who will be where when the season ends?
Overall, my belief is that City will retain the title, Liverpool will be again looking to take the title race to the wire and wrestle the title away from City, but will eventually succumb to the quality of this City side. Tottenham will remain the team that looks like the real deal but just don’t have it in them to win the title. The fight for the last top four spot will remain a scramble between Chelsea, United and Arsenal, I predict United to steal it, provided they’re able to sign Dybala and Maguire. Chelsea will come in at fifth position and Arsenal will close off the top six bracket. What are your top six predictions?
City may be on the rise, but Mahrez's yet to find his place in Pep's side
Algerian playmaker is Manchester City’s record signing of all time. Even though he is boasting of impressive stats such as 4 assists and a goal in 3 Champions League matches and 5 goals in 10 EPL appearances, more is expected - if he to become a regular in Pep’s side.
Blessed are they living in the days of Pep Guardiola. To say the Spaniard is one of best football managers in our time is simply an understatement. They are so many sides of the 48-year-old that has made it so difficult to describe him nor his football philosophy in words. He wowed the universe at Barcelona, overseeing a tiki-taka style of play that seemed impossible to contend with at Barcelona, implemented a totally different style at Bayern Munich and now changes formations, players and approaches almost every other match at City. A few things remain constant, his sides dominate possession, they fight and play like possessed men always wanting more despite the scoreline and they win. Dominantly overcoming Arsenal 3-1, Everton 2-0 and Chelsea 6-0 in a space of 7 days is beyond remarkable. But this piece is not about Pep and his masterclass, there is enough about that already.
“Even more, his style of play of running down the wing, cutting inside and shooting at goal is yet to fully come alive at the Etihad. He has never been that tough tackling player who tracks down opponents or rushes for the press, attributes that have become consistent in all of Pep’s most favored players and overall philosophy. Does he have to adapt or will Pep adapt to the Algerian’s default attributes?”
Not quite there
Algerian playmaker, Riyad Mahrez, arrived at the blue side of Manchester last summer, in a record £60 million deal for the club. After a failed attempt to get the 27-year-old in January of 2018, Pep Guardiola finally got his man a few months after and indeed a welcome move for Mahrez and all the neutrals. Many had seen him chop and nutmeg premier league professionals, more so in Leicester City’s record breaking season and began to wonder how much more he could produce if surrounded by players of the calibre of David Silva, Kevin De Bruyne, Sergio Aguero and Leroy Sane. Even though Mahrez has 5 premier league goals and 2 assists to his name in only 10 appearances, on top of 4 assists and a goal in 3 champions league matches, he is still far from his best. It’s difficult not to recognise his discomfort and grind to cement his place in Guardiola’ setup, one that a record signing is expected to.
Riyad Mahrez of Manchester City looks dejected after the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Manchester City at Anfield on October 7, 2018 in Liverpool, United Kingdom.
(Oct. 6, 2018 - Source: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images Europe)
Really?
It’s no surprise that the winger has been less pronounced in conversations featuring Africa’s current best batch. Names such as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Sadio Mane and Mo Salah have been thrown in that hat and serve as a testament that one needs to be scoring goals and getting regular game time for whatever club they play for inorder to fit the description. It’s true that Pep switches up his players quite a lot, but equally rewards the most outstanding performers with regular minutes as well. Riyad came on as a substitute in City’s 6-0 thrashing of Chelsea and half-completed passes, lost possession and tame shots at goal revealed the forward’s confidence levels and current status. Even more, his style of play of running down the wing, cutting inside and shooting at goal is yet to fully come alive at the Etihad. He has never been that tough tackling player who tracks down opponents or rushes for the press, attributes that have become consistent in all of Pep’s most favored players and overall philosophy. Does he have to adapt or will Pep adapt to the Algerian’s default attributes?
More than a glimmer of hope
It seems as though Pep has the touch of the ancient Greek king, Midas. Whatever he touches turns into gold. It’s difficult to find a player especially recruited by the Spaniard who hasn’t improved over time. When he has no plans with one, he makes that abundantly clear and ships them out as he did with Ivorian legend, Yaya Toure. The fact that he signed Riyad for so much money means he knows when and how the playmaker will aid the team’s progress. Looking at Bernardo Silva for example, the 24-year-old looked a misfit for the better part of the 2017/18 season but is now almost an indispensable member of the team, with the gaffer remarking that his team is made up of Bernardo and ten other players.
The start to life at City hasn’t been great for Riyad but it will most certainly get only better from here.
We argue Real Madrid could be fixed in two Senegalese signatures
Adding strength and dynamism to Real Madrid may not be rocket science after all. In Sadio Mane and Kalidou Koulibaly, Senegal might just be the answer to the 3-peat UEFA Champions League winners’ ills. Los Blancos are struggling to keep up with La Liga bitter rivals, Barcelona.
“This is where Koulibaly would come in handy. Plug him next to the experienced Ramos and the 2018 World Cup winner, Raphael Varane and no one would dare to attack them in open play.”
We all know it! It’s not working. The biggest club in world football is struggling. They lost two leaders at the end of last season. Cristiano Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane departed the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu for personal reasons which are closely linked. With them, they left a club with an ageing defence and toothless attack. Both of them were bringing out the best in the Madrid squad to play on the biggest stage, but the Spanish club has since lost that. So now what? How do they solve this? Two players. Kalidou Koulibaly and Sadio Mane.
Add another body in defence
Kalidou Koulibaly is arguably the best centre back in the world right now. The Senegalese has been consistent in his performances for a while now and his efforts are starting to be recognized by many. But what about Ramos you may ask. Check his stats. Whoscored gathered that he’s averaging 0.7 blocks per game in the Spanish La Liga. His defensive work rate is now off the pace although his attacking prowess is undeniable. Ramos has scored 7 goals and provided 1 assist already across all competitions this season which shows that he has a lot to offer. With him leading the attack from the back, he could benefit from having the presence of the African defender who is more than capable of bossing around some of the toughest strikers in Europe having already pocketed the likes Edinson Cavani when Napoli faced Paris Saint-Germain in November 2018. Koulibaly could ease the pressure off the Real Madrid captain who is turning 33 in less than two months.
Trying a different formation
Sadio Mane of Senegal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group H match between Senegal and Colombia at Samara Arena on June 28, 2018 in Samara, Russia.
(June 27, 2018 - Source: Michael Steele/Getty Images Europe)
It’s all fun and games when a team plays one way and are getting results. We have seen it over the years with Roberto Mancini’s Manchester City that was conservative against its opposition and pounced on the break with some frightening counter-attacking play. Real Madrid have had that aura in them and dispatched teams the Madrid way. But gone are the days when the never changing 4-3-3 formation of the Los Blancos was feared. They have been figured out. Changing formation to a 3-4-3 could prove to be a masterclass. Antonio Conte used it at Chelsea and he has an English Premier League title to show for it. But Madrid cannot use it as they lack the quality at the back. This is where Koulibaly would come in handy. Plug him next to the experienced Ramos and the 2018 World Cup winner, Raphael Varane and no one would dare to attack them in open play. Such is the significance of the Senegalese defender who brings a new dimension not only to the defense but to the style of play for the whole team. I am rooting for his signature.
Add quality in attack
Real Madrid are lacking the quality on the top end of the pitch. That’s evident. Galacticos have always been a solution in times of need for the club and they always will be. Why not make Sadio Mane the next Galactico. I know, I know, not a name on everyone’s minds but hear me out. He’s a player more than capable of carrying the weight of the team on his shoulders. We saw it not long ago. At the biggest stage, Sadio Mane stood up for Liverpool in the 2018 UEFA Champions League final against Real Madrid. He came through with a goal and caused havoc for the reigning European champions. In him, Real Madrid have got a player who beats players, creates and a player who is hungry for success having not won any trophy since moving to Liverpool from Southampton in 2016. Sadio Mane could bring back that fear factor that is lacking from the Spanish giants.
Inspire the new generation
Florentino Perez has made efforts to improve his attack. He has put his faith in the youngsters making noise in the junior age groups and managed to attract them to the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu. We have seen it Vinicius Jr, Brahim Diaz, Marco Asensio, Diaz Mariano and with Rodrigo Rodrigues who is still yet to make his way to the club from Gremio. There has been a lot of hype around these youngsters and we have seen some glimpses of hope in some. However, they have come short whenever they have been called up to task this season. I am sure they probably watched Ronaldo when he was playing and learnt a few lessons. What then do they need? They need another player with influence whom they can pick a few things from. Sadio Mane could come in and do that job. Show them another side of an attacking player capable of putting in the work and press high up the pitch when the team suffers. Bring some new inspiration into the dressing room and maybe, just maybe, Real Madrid could turn their misfortune around.
Get these two and Real Madrid could be revived in no time and forget the loopholes left by Zinedine Zidane and Cristiano Ronaldo’s departures.
UCL Matchday 5: Lyon's African cast set to slow Man City's momentum
Lyon is the only team to have humbled Manchester City to a defeat in the 2018/19 season. Can they do it again at home In France as the UEFA Champions League group stage draws to a close?
“All of Burkina Faso’s Bertrand Traore, Mousa Dembele of Malian descent, Fekir of Algerian descent, Ndombele of Congolese heritage, Ivory Coast’s Maxwell Cornet and the inform Dutch forward in Memphis Depay will all be options available to take the game to City.”
Manchester City’s first and only defeat in the 2018/19 football season came against Olympique Lyonnais back in September at the Etihad. It was an opening group match of the UEFA Champions League campaign where Nabil Fekir, Ivory Coast’s Maxwell Cornet and Memphis Depay were at the centre of proceedings as the Ligue 1 outfit registered an impressive unlikely victory. It’s on again, Pep Guardiola’s City have a chance to exact some revenge or to be humbled once more as they take flight to France on Tuesday.
Maxwell Cornet of Lyon celebrates after scoring his team's first goal with his team mates during the Group F match of the UEFA Champions League between Manchester City and Olympique Lyonnais at Etihad Stadium on September 19, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom.
(Sept. 18, 2018 - Source: Richard Heathcote/Getty Images Europe)
The notion of Manchester City assuming the status of Europe’s most deadly team is not so far fetched now. After a record breaking title winning premier league season last year, they look to be continuing from where they left from. It’s difficult to find any other club in Europe’s top leagues that has been equally as impressive. Of course Lyon’s league mates in PSG are still spotless but then you would have to consider the context. It is matches like the loss against Lyon or the one against Liverpool in the UCL quarter-finals last season that cast some doubts on Manchester City as a whole and their standing amongst Europe’s elite clubs. If there are matches that are more important to Manchester City and their continued successes, it’s such a continental match against Lyon that they have proven to easily lose in recent times. They will be heading into this one fully aware of the need to tighten their grip on so called lesser teams.
On the other hand, second placed Lyon, both in the champions league group F and on the French Ligue 1 standings will be a tough opposition. They may be far off the pace from PSG in the domestic league but are still yet to lose a game in the UCL this campaign. They are three points off City and face convincing opposition from Hoffenheim who also look keen on the champions league knockout spots. Of major interest, will be Lyon’s African blended attacking setup that proved to be a difficult presentation for City in the last time out. All of Burkina Faso’s Bertrand Traore, Mousa Dembele of Malian descent, Fekir of Algerian descent, Ndombele of Congolese heritage, Ivory Coast’s Maxwell Cornet and the inform Dutch forward in Memphis Depay will all be options available to take the game to City.
It’s a must watch, loads of fun on show and ofcourse, we will be closely following it.
Super Mario Balotelli, the 'black sheep' that everyone loves
Let’s reminisce the things said and done by the one and only Mario Balotelli. The Italian born of Ghanaian parents. The UEFA Champions League, EPL and Serie A Title winner has made his way through Europe entertaining us along the way while still bagging goals.
Mario Balotelli (L) and Samuel Eto'o of Inter Milan look on during the Serie A match between Inter Milan and Bari at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 23, 2009 in Milan, Italy.
(Aug. 22, 2009 - Source: Claudio Villa/Getty Images Europe)
Most soccer players give us memories that last forever by means of divine displays on the field of play. Quite recently, the social media community gave them a name they would always be remembered with, GOATs, Greatest Of All Time. However a handful of stars to ever grace the game are remembered for something more than just what they did with the ball, they are forever “idolized” for their being. Just who are they are. My subconscious has voluntarily crafted a statue of Mario Balotelli in a section of my mind. Just the thought of him, always puts a grin on my face. Do you all remember some of the adventures that the Ghanaian-Italian has led us into? I remember a few.
Why always him?
Contrary to popular belief, Mario Balotelli Barwuah has had quite a successful career so far. Of course, he could have done more because of his rare talent if not for the “ill-discipline” and many other strange Mario things. Born to Ghanaian immigrants in Palermo, Sicily in Italy - Mario started playing soccer at a young age and had to juggle interchanging between his biological and foster parents’ home. His biological parents had not been able to fund his healthcare needs. First major successes of Super Mario’s career came when he was at Inter Milan. The Italian international won three successive Serie A titles from 2007-10, including a much coveted UEFA Champions League crown in the 2009-10 season under the “Special One”, Jose Mourinho. He was just 20 years old, had scored 20 goals in his 59 appearances at Inter, won silverware that some great players never get their hands on in a lifetime - MB45 was riding on the crest of rare wave. His move to English Premier League side, Manchester City - was the platform to eventually introduce the world to the Italian, born of Ghanaian parents.
The good, bad and ugly
Mario Balotelli of Italy controls the ball as he runs through to score his team's second goal during the UEFA EURO 2012 semi final match between Germany and Italy at the National Stadium on June 28, 2012 in Warsaw, Poland.
(June 27, 2012 - Source: Joern Pollex/Getty Images Europe)
Super Mario has endured some tough times during the course of his career. From the monkey racist chants directed at him and Ghana’s Kevin Prince Boateng while at Milan and outside the pitch drama pertaining his personal life. He has always been quite a hard boy though and would always rather respond by pulling off stunts peculiar to him. At Manchester City, we came to know him as the guy who scores and celebrate by putting up the most serious of faces, roll his shirt up to display the inside vest with an inscription, “why always me.” This was hardly a response to the persecution he got but rather an honest statement enquiring why he had to be the one always scoring goals and being so good above everyone else. Yeah, him and Zlatan Ibrahimovic seem to be from the same planet. One of many priceless Ballo moments at City was a failed attempt to score with a back heel dribble after being fed into a one on one position with the LA Galaxy goalkeeper by David Silva. The lackadaisical approach on that pre-season chance was an example of a handful of such moments in his career that warranted him to get stick from some fans and pundits. I for one and am sure, several other people adored such moments. You would never know what Mario would do next and that just made it even more exciting. He eventually scored 33 goals in 54 matches of his Man City career.
Never to be forgotten is the time Super Mario sunk German in the 2012 UEFA European Championship semi-final with a wonderful brace, introducing the celebration of taking of his shirt off and summing up a hulk like face and demeanor that has been replicated by so many since then. His agility, pace, power, flair, creativity and all the other things required for one to be an exceptional soccer player are found in Mario. That has and will always go down as the reason why he has been such a rare talent to grace the sport of soccer.
Functional and dysfunctional relationship with Roberto Mancini
The Italian national team manager has crossed paths with Balotelli more than he would have liked. Perhaps he loved it. It has never been that clear. Mancini was MB45’s mentor first at Inter Milan, Manchester City and now the Italy national team. I remember the 53-year-old immediately substituting Super Mario in the 30th minute after the failed backheel against LA Galaxy. He has always been very expressive of his relationship with Super Mario and Mario himself has seemed not to care many times more than one.That just makes the whole thing funny. He are some of the things Mancini said about Mario:
“I could write a book of 200 pages of my two years at Inter with Mario, but the book would not be a drama – it would be a comedy. I remember one time when we went to play Kazan in the [2009–10] Champions League. In that match I had all my strikers injured... I was really in trouble and Mario was the only one. Mario got a yellow card in the 42nd [20th]minute, so when I got to the dressing room at half-time I spend about 14 minutes of the 15 available speaking only to Mario. I said to him: ‘Mario, I cannot change you, I have no strikers on the bench, so don’t touch anybody and play only with the ball. If we lose the ball no reaction. If someone provokes you, no reaction, if the referee makes a mistake, no reaction.’ The 46th [60th] minute – red card!”
“I told him, if you played with me 10 years ago I would give you every day maybe one punch in your head. There are different ways to help a guy like Mario. I don’t speak with him every day, otherwise I would need a psychologist, but I speak with him because I don’t want him to lose his quality. If Mario is not one of the best players in the world it will be his fault, because he has everything. Mario can be one of the top players in Europe. I don’t want him to lose his talent.”
In the mind of Super Mario
Rio Ferdinand of Manchester United and Mario Balotelli of Manchester City have words during the Barclays Premier League match between Manchester City and Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium on December 9, 2012 in Manchester, England.
(Dec. 8, 2012 - Source: Clive Mason/Getty Images Europe)
Do you remember some of Mario Balotelli’s infamous quotes? Here are a few:
"No, I don't know him, but next time I play Arsenal, I will keep a close eye on him," and "Perhaps I can show him my Golden Boy trophy and remind him that I won it." - Balotelli asked about Jack Wilshere, fellow competitor for the Golden Boy award.
“Only Messi Is Better Than Me" - Balotelli after winning the Golden boy award.
“Just to see what it looks like" - Balotelli driving into a female prison
Mario Balotelli, now 28 years of age, has played for some of the biggest clubs in world soccer such as AC Milan, Inter Milan, Manchester City and Liverpool. He is currently plying his trade with French Ligue 1 side, OGC Nice under Arsenal legend, Patrick Vieira. He has not lost his eye for goal, already bagged 33 in 51 appearances for the club. Who knows where he will be next? One thing is for sure, MB45 is definitely undone and just as I am, many are probably more than delighted that he is still around to rock our worlds.
By the way, are you aware that he even trolled Manchester United’s for the late goal they conceded in a 2-2 draw against Chelsea over the weekend?
Will Spurs ever win the English Premier League?
Tottenham boast quality across the pitch and have managed to string up a series of Champions League appearances. They’ve signed and kept quality players whilst for the FA cup and the Premier League title but still remain with no silverware. When are they going to break the jinx? Is it a North London curse that followed Arsenal for some time?
They have earned the tag of being a “cursed” team in the premier league for the wrong (or right reasons). They have done almost everything right but somehow they continue to miss out on the coveted premier league title or less still some silverware. This begs the question: what will it really take for Tottenham Hotspurs to win the league?
Tottenham Hotspur's English midfielder Dele Alli (R) celebrates with Tottenham Hotspur's English defender Kieran Trippier after scoring the opening goal of the UEFA Champions League Group H football match between Tottenham Hotspur and Real Madrid at Wembley Stadium in London, on November 1, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / Ben STANSALL
(Oct. 31, 2017 - Source: AFP)
Most Balanced Team in the EPL?
Many would argue that they certainly are. From the last line of defence all the way to the front, Spurs seem to be covered with great quality players. In the goalkeeping department, the team is led by their world cup winning captain in Hugo Lloris thus providing little or no concern in this department. Defensively, the team is ridiculously strong, possessing fast and ball crossing wing backs such as Kieran Trippier and Danny Rose has made Tottenham more threatening going forward. Moreover, the central defensive pairing of Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld has been pivotal for the team’s disciplined play. That’s not the end, the team also boasts quality in players like Davinson Sanchez and Ivory Coast’s Serge Aurier who can also perform defensive duties to their very best and up to the accepted standard. Looking at the team’s midfield, there is also plenty of talent and experience in players such as Mousa Dembele, Eric Dier, Moussa Sissoko as well as Erik Lamela. These internationals possess high level quality that can breakdown any team in the premier league on any day. Not only the midfield, but the team’s attacking threat is the pick of the crop. One would think having a striker of Harry Kane’s quality coupled with the trickery of Dele Alli and Son as well as Danish ace, Christian Eriksen’s creativity would make this team unstoppable. We’ve seen these players break down a majority of the teams in the premier league with their brilliant displays yet still that hasn’t been enough to bring glory to the other half of North London.
“They have been near yet so far. With all of that, can we say the team is “cursed” and will never in the league anytime soon? Or would one be right to say that its now only a matter of time, probably a couple of seasons before the team breaks its duck and finally claim the premier league golden prize? Personally I think it’s just a matter of time.”
A seemingly good coach
Not only is Spurs an overall balanced and very strong team, but in Mauricio Pochettino they have a young coach who has shown a great deal of hunger to succeed but has fallen short now and again. Some attribute this problem to lack of experience, while some strongly believe it's just bad luck. But looking at the Argentine’s coaching record, he has not won any cup with the teams he has coached, dating from his time at Espanyol and present. This then raises the argument that maybe Tottenham need a coach with a proven record of winning titles and cups and tit is only then that the team would possibly win the premier league title.
Is it in their hands to win it?
Lucas Moura of Tottenham Hotspur celebrates after scoring his second goal and his team's third goal during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford on August 27, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom.
(Aug. 26, 2018 - Source: Clive Mason/Getty Images Europe)
Looking beyond surface value, one could be tempted to think that perhaps it's not really what the team is (or not) doing but rather, external forces could be the cause to Spurs’ failure to win the league. In recent times, we’ve seen Tottenham forcing their way into the top four after languishing in the top eight bracket for a long time. This has been evidence of the fact that the team has been improving and growing in leaps and bounds. The fact that the team has been on an upward horizon is not up for debate. They have moved from being a top four side to landing third place as well as pushing Chelsea all the way to the end before becoming runner ups in the 2016/2017 EPL season. Such showing has made Tottenham become pat of the conversation of teams that can win the league at the start of every season, but still no one really fancies them to go all the way. A key reason for this is the team’s competitors such as Manchester City who have a squad to die for while also having a financial backing second to none. Such an advantage make it difficult for teams like Spurs who operate on a very tight budget to acquire more players that can help the team challenge for the title.
Time and time again we have witnessed Spurs’ quality on the football pitch. They have shown countless times that they can be a force to be reckoned with as they have been able to defeat a lot of the so-called big teams convincingly in some of their games. But even so, that has not delivered league glory for the team. They have continuously been able to keep a majority of their key players almost every season, showing an element of continuity and trust in the progress being made. They have been near yet so far. With all of that, can we say the team is “cursed” and will never in the league anytime soon? Or would one be right to say that its now only a matter of time, probably a couple of seasons before the team breaks its duck and finally claim the premier league golden prize? Personally I think it's just a matter of time, they have the right attributes to win it. But will they? What do you think?
FT Impact Player Series: Is Man City's Ben Mendy, Superhuman?
At just 24, Benjamin Mendy has won the FIFA World Cup, French Ligue 1 and English Premier League title. With his playing style unique to him, is he poised to usher in a new generation of full-backs?
We always like to pause and zoom in a little on some unique talents in the game today. Today, we are crossing over to the blue-half of Manchester and think out loud about the incredible talent that is Benjamin Mendy, a French defender with African roots, Senegal to be specific. Let us briefly look at three things that Benjamin Mendy gives the Premier League champions, Manchester City. You will give a ruling at the end on whether the 24-year-old is human or an alien meant to be playing some unknown galaxy football.
Benjamin Mendy of Manchester City in action during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Huddersfield Town at Etihad Stadium on August 19, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom.
(Aug. 18, 2018 - Source: Michael Regan/Getty Images Europe)
Energy, pace and power
Mendy rose to prominence in the 2016/17 season where he was a key defensive component of the young Monaco team that won the French Ligue 1 and reached the semi-final of the UEFA Champions League. His switch to Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City the following season for £52 million pounds, a then record move for a defender, was part of the infamous exodus of talent from Monaco with the likes of Bakayoko, Mbappe and Bernardo Silva also leaving for big monies. In particular, Guardiola’s acqusition of Mendy for that kind of price seemed ridiculous at the time especially given the fact he had likewise spent big on other fullbacks in the form of Kyle Walker and Danilo - but he sure had a plan and how dare we questioned the wisdom of the Spaniard. The record 100 Premier League points amassed in a title winning campaign for Manchester City was the result. Of course we did not see a lot of Mendy in this record-breaking season because of the ligament injury that sidelined him for the greater part of the season. Now that he is back, most are starting to appreciate why Pep brought him to the club. No one owns the left flank of the pitch like Ben does. He literally runs up and down that channel for the full ninety minutes without showing any signs of exhaustion. His built body allows him to shove most if not all opponents with ease and his carefree personality even shows up on the pitch in form of the risks he takes upfield. Do not be mistaken, Mendy is no dribbler or slick like “modern full-backs” such as Marcelo, Jordi Alba, Alex Sandro or Dani Alves. It’s simply raw energy, pace and power with a defined ability to make pin-point crosses into the box. Think of him as a really accurate bulldozer that does not just go through stuff senselessly.
Even though Manchester City brought only Riyad Mahrez in the summer, with Mendy back, they are looking anew. Guardiola’s tactical tweaks have seen Ben Mendy playing as hybrid and left-back /central midfielder, something we are not sure has ever existed. In his first four premier league appearances, Mendy has provided three assists, made 25 crosses into the box, created two big chances and was also heavily involved in two other goals. Yes, its no cheap talk here - Mendy is real.
“We could not demand Delph and Zinchenko to do what Benjamin Mendy does, in terms of going up and down the wing, attacking space and having his physicality because they have different physical conditions.
We saw Mendy’s quality at Monaco in France, his quality to go forward. When a player has this quality, we must use it, because it’s his ability to create problems.”
A cool kid
Benjamin Mendy of France celebrates following his sides victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia.
(July 14, 2018 - Source: Matthias Hangst/Getty Images Europe)
Besides the 2018 world cup winner’s footballing abilities, Ben Mendy is what everyone would wish for in a team’s dressing room. Within days of arriving at Guardiola’s camp, the Manchester All or nothing documentary reveals that the Frenchman was already cracking some jokes and teasing his new teammates in beginner’s English spoken with his French accent. A personality truly unique to fearless champions. He is one of the loudest guys in the dressing room, perhaps the most active football player on social media who always has one or two things to laugh about. You may remember the person in jeans who uncomfortably ran onto the pitch to celebrate Raheem Sterling’s last minute winner against Southampton in the 2017/18 EPL season, that was injured Benjamin Mendy. He even started taking selfies with Sterling afterwards in front of cameras. That’s just the way Ben is, serious and unserious at the same time. Many people like him off-the pitch and he is simply iresistable on it, how can it be? Is he human and perhaps the 21st century definition of perfection.
Most team’s battles are won 60% off the pitch and 40% on it, with Ben Mendy adding value both ways - France and Manchester City really have a lot to be thankful of. Just ask Olivier Giroud, a striker who was on a goal drought stretching back to the pre-world cup fixtures, Mendy came very late on for France as a substitute in their recent UEFA Nations League clash with the Netherlands and saved the day. Courtesy of a delightful Mendy cross.
“Mendy is Mendy. He is what he is. Sometimes you want to kill him. Sometimes you say ‘wow, what a player we have. Mendy has a lot of things to improve. Hopefully we can convince him to be calm and forget a bit the social media and focus on what he has to do.”
Liverpool making the right noises – Thanks to the Africans
Man City are looking like they may be EPL runaway leaders once more. But last campaign’s UEFA Champions League finalists, Liverpool are looking quite sharp with their African talent on fleek
The English Premier League is back with a bang, and some teams have already started looking promising. Manchester City shuttered Arsenal 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium in Matchday 1 and thrashed Huddersfield in a 6-1 win at home the following week. These results are not surprising at all considering how the Cityzens ended their season last year with a record-breaking 100 points after 38 games. Liverpool however went all out in the transfer market to beef up their squad after their bitter loss at the hands of Real Madrid in UEFA Champions League final a couple of months ago. Since then, there has been talk about them being ready to mount a title challenge in the league this year. Rightly so because they have already picked up wins in the first two matches they played against West Ham United and Crystal Palace. One thing that has been quite interesting though is their core of players who are of African heritage. Let’s look at what these players bring to the table.
Naby Keita of Liverpool is closed down by Andros Townsend of Crystal Palace during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Liverpool FC at Selhurst Park on August 20, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.
(Aug. 19, 2018 - Source: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images Europe)
Naby Keïta is the latest addition to the Merseyside team after he joined the club in a $67.6 million deal from RB Leipzig. We wrote earlier, about how the 23-year-old midfielder from Guinea was the missing piece of the spine of the Liverpool after they sold Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona in January 2017. We are starting to see the signs of a midfield general that dictates play when in possession and is not afraid to instigate the press whenever the team loses the ball. Keïta looks ready to emulate Steven Gerrard’s role in the team where the Englishman was the pinnacle of all the attacks in the team. Keita looks to have the engine to bomb up and down the pitch which has become one of the most significant assets of modern midfield players. Think of the likes of N’golo Kante.
Mo Salah. Not much needs to be said about him other than that he looks as sharp as ever. The Egyptian forward will bring the goals to Liverpool. That is certain after watching him bossing the best of defenders last season and scoring a record 31 goals in his first season in Liverpool. Although he could have a tough time this round now that the players know him and how he plays, still he poses a threat to any team with his blistering pace. Liverpool will be looking to pick another 3 points this weekend against Brighton, a match that will be aired at 12.30pm, Washington DC time, and you can bet on the African superstar to score.
Next up, there is the new Number 10, Sadio Mane from Senegal. The forward did not have the greatest time at the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia tournament because his team was knocked out in the group stages but only just. He has since returned to the club that pays his bills, and he has been showing the hunger that Jurgen Klopp wants to see in all his players. His persistence can be seen in Liverpool’s most recent game, against Palace when he burst forward and kept going especially after some contact from Van Aanholt. He set his mind on the goal, and he saw to it when he rounded past the Palace keeper to score Liverpool’s second of the night. Mane’s creativity will be of great importance throughout the season and it is an added bonus for the club that he will not be leaving for the AFCON tournament in January like before because the tournament has been moved to September 2019. (Be sure to subscribe to our Newsletter where we keep you up to date with the build up to this tournament)
Mohamed Salah of Liverpool is fouled by Aaron Wan-Bissaka of Crystal Palace leading to a red card during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Liverpool FC at Selhurst Park on August 20, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.
(Aug. 19, 2018 - Source: Julian Finney/Getty Images Europe)
In essence, these three players will be crucial to Liverpool’s fortunes if they remain fit because they have the quality and are delivering at the highest level. They are setting the bar high for other African players who wish to play in the best soccer leagues in the world. Do not be surprised if Liverpool wins it this year because their core of players is hungry and is willing to work tirelessly for that silverware that has eluded them for over two decades now.
Pep’s oiled City machine is not too far from being Europe’s best
Manchester City may just win the EPL title again or even grab a UEFA champions league trophy. They are looking a team.
Change is everywhere. A Ronaldo-less Real Madrid whose reins Zidane left for Lopetegui, a star-studded Barcelona figuring out their style and philosophy, a Juventus adjusting to life with Ronaldo but without Gigi Buffon, laughable Manchester United, Bayern Munich also adapting to the new manager in Niko Kovac and many more countless examples. Who then is the new king of football or rather who is lurking to be? Here are three fast reasons detailing why I think Manchester City is going to give many teams a run for their money and outcompete the best.
1. Pep Guardiola
Manchester City Manager Josep Guardiola on stage during the Manchester City Trophy Parade in Manchester city centre on May 14, 2018 in Manchester, England.
(May 13, 2018 - Source: Lynne Cameron/Getty Images Europe)
It’s safe to say that the Spaniard has stamped his authority at the Etihad heading into the third year at the club. His players understand him more and will be more eager now to listen to his ideas after witnessing just how much greatness he can cook up, racking up a record 100 Premier League points in the 2017/18 title-winning season. Pep has won it all with Barcelona and Spain but still remains hungry for any kind of trophy, which happens to be the same hunger and energy he transfers to his players, approaching every match as a final and staying focused without growing complacent. An ideal recipe for repeated success. More than his personal intelligent football mind and passion, Pep has just the right staff to complement him. In particular, his assistant, Mikel Arteta is reported to be Guardiola’s secret weapon. When the going gets tough, Pep is never shy to take a back seat and allow Mikel to express himself for the benefit of the team. Just recently, Mikel Arteta’s plan for Mendy and Sterling is reported to have led to City’s second goal against Arsenal in their 2-0 win in the opening match of the campaign.
In a nutshell, I think the rapport and understanding that he has with his players is second to none. It’s the kind that makes a team Europe’s best when combined with quality players who have a fantastic attitude and experience.
“Look at Benjamin Mendy for example, in these first two matches of the season, he has been adopting a hybrid left-back, wingback/ central midfielder position, something thrilling at the sound of it. Wait until you watch him play.”
2. Squad depth and experience
Manchester City pose for a team photo prior to the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Second Leg match between Manchester City and Liverpool at Etihad Stadium on April 10, 2018 in Manchester, England.
(April 9, 2018 - Source: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Europe)
Manchester City’s bench over the weekend in matchday 2 of the Premier League comprised of 50 million fullback Kyle Walker, 60 million winger in Riyad Mahrez, the 2017/18 PFA Young Player of The Year in Leroy Sane, the club’s second top goal scorer in the previous campaign in Raheem Sterling, former Barcelona goalkeeper, Claudio Bravo and 2014 FIFA World Cup finalist Nicolas Otamendi. It’s not like they were resting their main players, the first eleven of that day played and brushed aside Huddersfield, 6-1 as if it were that easy, they just make it look easy. That City team that consisted of two world cup winners, finalists, semi and quarter-finalists. Even of the just ended 2018 FIFA World Cup. They have enough winners to win anything in that squad who have the years, talent and passion on their ‘rap sheet.’ The agonizing loss to Liverpool in last year’s UEFA Champions League quarter-final loss to Liverpool would have taught them plenty and will be undoubtedly gunning for the UEFA gold medal this campaign. Man to man, they can match any European team right now, just pick and choose any of their players at random.
3. An ever-evolving playing style and identity
Pep’s arrival at City did not only commence the reformation of the Manchester club but football as a whole in England. Guardiola made the attractive way of playing football great again after Chelsea and Leicester had won the EPL title employing quite defensive tactics. Now, everyone wants to play. Chelsea parted ways with Antonio Conte for that reason and acquired Sarri, Liverpool continues to enjoy Klopp’s talents, Everton sacked Sam Allardyce for the same boring football, Arsenal is learning to do the same with Unai Emery and Mourinho’s Manchester United seem to be ailing as a result of refusing to dance to the new song. Man City’s style is not only fun to watch but delivers results by reason of it being a system where he can plug and play any of the players who are happy to delivers exactly as per the prescribed requirements. When many teams are struggling to maintain a certain identity and character as a team, we see Pep do it and dynamically so. Look at Benjamin Mendy for example, in these first two matches of the season, he has been adopting a hybrid left-back, wingback/ central midfielder position, something thrilling at the sound of it. Wait until you watch him play. Many thought the champions will falter without the injured DeBruyne but Bernardo Silva is stepping up also bringing in a new dimension to the squad. City are stable and continuously innovating. They will be hard to stop, quite hard to deny anything.
“I wouldn’t say we waited, but it was clear when we saw the starting XI, the teamsheet, they would change their formation from what they’ve usually done in the past.”
Leroy Sane of Manchester City celebrates the third goal with Kyle Walker during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Manchester City at Emirates Stadium on March 1, 2018 in London, England.
(Feb. 28, 2018 - Source: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Europe)
How far do you think they will go this season? Share with us in the comment box below.
FT English Premier League Preview: Can Pogba Help Lead Man United To The Title?
World Cup winner Paul Pogba will look to continue his winning ways with Manchester United this season.
Paul Pogba of Manchester United celebrates scoring the first goal during the Quarter Final Second Leg match between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old trafford on April 10, 2018 in Manchester, England. “Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images Europe”
Surely this has to be the Frenchman’s season, or so we think. His heroic exploits in the World Cup where he helped the French national team claim football’s greatest prize, have not gone unnoticed. Paul Pogba’s time to shine is now. The Manchester United talisman has received his fair share of criticism both at the club and national level for all the wrong reasons. Some cite his failure to offer more defensive work in his game, some criticize him for trying to do too much (or little) with the ball, and lest we forget, he’s also received stick for his numerous hairstyles which have been said to somewhat contribute to his disappointing displays at times. Nonetheless, the real question to be addressed right now is can he replicate his France form to the Red Devils’ midfield, going into the new season? Let’s wait and see.
Paul Pogba’s time at Manchester United has been rather bittersweet. Carrying a record-breaking $90 million price tag on his shoulders, the stakes were bound to be high for the Frenchman and they surely have been. In his first season, Pogba had quite an average season by his standards, chipping in with 5 goals and 4 assists in the league. Fast forward to the 2017/18 season, the stats didn’t change much, though we did see some improvements. Pogba managed to score 6 goals and provided 6 assists in what was rather a mixed season for him as his problems and consistency with fully expressing himself on the field continued.
Pogba’s season was filled with loads of activity, good and interesting. For instance, his perceived “fallout” with Jose Mourinho in the middle of the season affected the player’s morale as criticism of his play flew in left, right and center. The bone of contention about Pogba’s play has been more about his failure to assist his teammates defensively, exposing the already suspect Man United defense with the inconsistent midfield cover. This was largely attributed to the way Mourinho was deploying the charismatic Frenchman, playing him in a two-man defensive midfield alongside Nemanja Matic. This made Pogba get caught out of possession countless times, something that infuriated Mourinho who is a master of keeping things tight with his teams. As Pogba”s struggles continued to haunt him, Mourinho set tongues wagging when he started benching the Frenchman in a couple of United’s games, opting for the young Scott Mctominay instead. Many assumed Mourinho was trying to teach Pogba “a lesson” for his disappointing and inconsistent displays, but the Portuguese coach was quick to squash those allegations, citing that Pogba had not been playing at the level he wanted him to play at.
Most Manchester United fans were hoping that Matic’s signing would “unlock” Paul Pogba’s offensive prowess and enable him to provide those key passes and open up defenses with his defense-splitting passes. However, that wasn’t necessarily the case. The glimpses of what he can do were existent nonetheless. A good example that comes to mind was during the Manchester derby where Pogba played a pivotal role in helping United overcome runaway title winners City in a 3-2 victory. In that game, Pogba looked like his former Juventus self, winning balls and initiating attacks for the Red Devils, doing pretty much what we expect of him in every game.
In the lead up to the World Cup, there were worries that Pogba’s place in the France team was not guaranteed due to his poor form at United with some of the French fans even turning against the player. However, coach Didier Deschamps showed Pogba support and assured him of his key role in the French midfield. And indeed he seemed to be proven right as Pogba’s World Cup displays started to accrue more consistency and effectiveness. He was a threat going forward, always looking for the likes of Mbappe and Griezzman with his inch-perfect passes to unlock defenses. Defensively he also did due diligence as he was constantly falling back to assist Kante and company. Moreover, he also scored some crucial goals for France, including one in the final. Overall, Pogba’s World Cup play was a refreshing reminder of the talent he possesses and how impactful of a player he can be when motivated. It was like he had something to prove to the world and especially his critics, those of whom have been on his case for some time now. He definitely proved us wrong (his celebrations at the end of the final said it all). Every Manchester United fan was most definitely pleased with Pogba’s World Cup showing and are surely hoping that he can bring that form to the United team when the season commences.
With the World Cup being signed, sealed and delivered (to France), the focus has now shifted to club level for all players, Pogba included. As mentioned before, the expectations remain high for him and rightly so. I personally believe Pogba has all the attributes to become the best midfielder in the world and emulate the midfield greats such as Luka Modric and Andres Iniesta. Some blame his poor form at club level on Jose Mourinho’s defensive tactics which do not allow Pogba to have the freedom he needs in order to thrive. The validity of that assertion is rather open for various interpretations. But what I know for a fact is that Manchester United can get the best out of Pogba with him playing further up the pitch where he doesn’t have to worry too much about defensive duties. Perhaps the arrival of Brazilian midfielder Fred is the right tonic for Pogba’s chance to shine. It is expected that United will mostly play a three-man midfield with Fred and Matic taking care of the defensive duties and Pogba being the man more responsible for the creativity going forward from midfield. This is what most United fans want, for Pogba’s sake but it all boils down to Mourinho’s preference and we all know he can be very unpredictable with his lineups. Nonetheless, the presence of Fred should surely be the key to unleashing Pogba.
Above all, Pogba’s potential cannot be overlooked. We know he’s one of the best passers of the ball and on his day can make the tightest of defenses look ordinary with his mouth watering passes. His switch of play, footwork, and flair make him lethal and a threat against anyone. As such, coming off a successful World Cup, things look promising for Pogba and many believe the real Pogba will be unleashed this season. Great times lie ahead in the Premier League and many will be keeping tabs on Pogba’s performances. Hopefully, he will shame his critics and earn the respect he deserves with some outstanding performances throughout the season. More importantly, I believe Pogba is the one man who can help the Red Devils wrestle the title away from their cross-town rivals Manchester City and finally satiate the hopes of United fans longing for Premiership glory, a triumph of which they last enjoyed during Sir Alex Ferguson’s era.
FT English Premier League Preview: How will Mahrez fair at Manchester City?
Riyad joined the EPL Champions, Man City in the summer. What more can the Algerian achieve under the mentorship of Guardiola? What effect will he have on the team still targeting UCL success?
The Price Tag
Riyad Karim Mahrez could be the most expensive African player in history after sealing a £60 million move to Manchester City. The five-year deal is believed to reach an astounding £75 million with add-ons and would very much surpass the Congolese, Cedric Bakambu’s £65 million switch to Chinese Super League side, Beijing Guoan. The 27-year-old Algerian international has also become the Cityzens’ record signing, which speaks volumes about just how much the club admire and what is expected of him. This leads me to the first question many will be keen to see answered, whether Riyad will live up to his perceived value.
He has been to the mountain-top
Do you remember the fairytale of the 2015/16 Premier League season, where Leicester City lifted the trophy against all odds? Riyad was the man at the heart of Claudio Ranieri’s set up, terrorising opposition, creating chances, scoring goals - mostly from the right wing side, always cutting inside and slipping away from defenders with what became known as the ‘Mahrez chop’. His partnership with Jamie Vardy ensured the latter would also write his name in the English record books for quite a number of records. Even Riyad looked great on paper too, scoring 17 goals and serving up 11 assists. That year, 2016, became his ‘Mo Salah’ year getting all sorts of awards. In fact, he almost matches Salah on accolades received, except that he did not outscore his Leicester teammate who won the golden boot. Mahrez’s track record proves that he will unlikely be unfazed by the challenge of City who happens to be a town, subset of a world he has dominated before, a world that is English football. Lest I get carried away talking about the past, let’s look ahead into his City future.
New level, new heights, and new dreams
After being a subject of many failed attempts for a move away from Leicester since the fairytale season, Riyad finally got what most people wished for him. A bigger club, with a bigger fan base, top quality players, and definitely bigger dreams. He had reached a ceiling with the Foxes and with all due respect to Leicester, it wouldn’t have been a fun show seeing his immense ability and potential only in use to help a mid-table club stay afloat. In my opinion, Mahrez’s ability on the ball and to take-on players is second to only a handful of professional footballers all around the world. Since 2015/16 season, only Hazard, Sanchez and Zaha have completed more dribbles in the EPL. See the company he is keeping, Zaha is another African who actually deserves a blog post on this site. After a disappointing 2016/17 campaign with Leicester where he only managed 4 goals and 2 assists, Riyad redeemed himself in the follow-up, scoring 12 times and registering 10 assists. Under the mentorship of Pep Guardiola and the company of the likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Leroy Sane, David Silva and Aguero, he is probably dreaming bigger. A champions league triumph perhaps, a place among the G.O.A.Ts of the football world maybe - the sky is really the limit now.
Will he actually get a real chance?
It is no secret that the Premier League champions have unparalleled depth in the quality of their squad. More so, given the attitude of the almost unpredictable tactician in Guardiola, no player is safe from sitting some matches out. Not even the record signing. Mahrez’s preferred position is on either wing, especially the right one, where Raheem Sterling largely operated from, scoring 18 Premier League goals from also serving up 11 assists. Bernardo Silva who is possibly City’s best player in the pre-season tour so far will also be vying for more minutes on either wing, let alone the Germany prodigal child, Leroy Sane who scooped the PFA Young Player of the Year Award in City’s title-winning season. I actually think Riyad could get some preference, especially on the right wing as he is able to hug the touchline, just like Sane does on the left - something that Guardiola once which Sterling has come up short of in recent times. He also offers something more, in terms of the ability to score long range shots, which we have hardly seen Sterling do. At the end of the day, only time will tell, but best guaranteed that whatever chance he gets, he will surely be keen to make the most of it. He is very much aware of the probabilities.
The nitty-gritties
A few things to note out and keep an eye on include; the possibility of Riyad, Aubameyang, Salah, Sadio Mane and Naby Keita rivaling each other for the CAF African Player of the award, now that they are all a big parts of three of the best clubs in the EPL and the rest of the world. Could he possibly even compete for the golden boot if deployed in Sterling’s position, I mean, we are very much aware of his goal-scoring ability. The unsettling factor in the equation of predicting Riyad’s debut season at City is the possibility of injuries stepping in to take away all the fun. Just like any other footballer, he is not completely immune any. He has already survived a major scare in pre-season after being taken-off a pre-season match against Bayern Munich as a result of an ankle injury. Hopefully, it’s the last of it.
Let us know how you think Riyad will fair at City in the comment box below. Let the games begin!
FT English Premier League Preview: Can Salah replicate his form from last season?
Mohamed Salah of Liverpool celebrates scoring the first goal with Roberto Firmino during the Quarter Final Second Leg match between Manchester City and Liverpool at Etihad Stadium on April 10, 2018 in Manchester, England.
I imagine this question has been on everybody’s mind since Liverpool’s Champions League Final against Real Madrid. People are wondering if the Egyptian wizard Mo Salah can replicate his performances from last season. There is no simple answer to this question, but I will try to break down my thought process and let you in on how I think the forward can be a threat in the coming 2018/19 EPL season.
2017/18 was a fairytale season for new summer signing Mo Salah who arrived at Liverpool from AS Roma for a fee believed to be around £35m. Many thought it was an expensive purchase for a player who was most likely going to be a substitute when Klopp’s workhorse, Adam Lallana, returns from injury. Little did we know that the African star sought to challenge the records not just for the club but the historical competition dubbed ‘the most competitive in the world’. Mo Salah grew week by week into a fierce striker capable of scoring against any opposition placed in front of him. If you were not following football last season, you definitely need to know that he scored a record-breaking 32 league goals as well as providing 10 assists in the process. Perfection personified!
Now, the talk has been going on about whether he can grow from this season and replicate this performance especially after seeing his World Cup dreams dashed early in Russia. The Liverpool forward had suffered an injury in the UEFA Champions League final against 13-time champions Real Madrid. This meant that he arrived at the tournament in Russia not fully fit and was unable to make it past the group stage. Many believe that this dented his confidence and could affect his performances in the upcoming season commencing on the 10th of August. Some even drop in the issue of fatigue and say that he has not had enough time to rest which means that he is most likely going to burn out. All these arguments are fair and point to the direction that our bets should not be on the 24-year old Egyptian to star again under Klopp.
But what about the other side of it? What does history say about people like him who dramatically exceed expectations in their first seasons at big clubs? Players, who build year-on-year? Let me help you. Think of Tottenham’s Harry Kane. The forward shocked people when he scored 21 goals in the 2014/15 season. Some even called it a fluke and were convinced that the striker would never come close to those numbers again. Well, they were right. Not in the sense that he failed to reach 21 goals again, but that he has consistently scored more than 21 since that season. He went on to score 25, 29 and just recently reached the 30 goal-mark in a heated race for the golden boot with Salah. This is evidence of a player playing in the same league who managed to produce the goods after an unbelievable season.
Apart from that, Salah’s performance against Manchester City in the International Champions Cup on the 26th of July, 2018 shows that he has not let his foot off the gas. The player was brought onto the pitch in the second half with their team trailing by one goal to nil. It took him only 3 touches in just 53 seconds to find the back of the net and draw Liverpool on level pegging against Pep Guardiola’s side. The Egyptian headed past the helpless Joe Hart despite there being calls for him being offside. His presence inspired the Merseyside club into a victory as Sadio Mane finished off the comeback with a calmly taken penalty on the 94th minute.
What else did they talk about? Oh, yes. Fatigue. They say he is not going to be fit throughout the season. I think these comments are premature as well. Liverpool now have the strength in depth that they have lacked in recent seasons. They recently acquired the services of a certain Swiss talent called Xherdan Shaqiri. The man is short but can give you problems on the flanks and cutting in on his favored left peg. He is most likely going to be taking over in the matches that are not a top priority to the club which especially the cup games. If not him, then Lallana as well will be ready to prove to everyone that he is still a capable team player. All these options mean that Salah can afford to rest and be recalled in the big games to terrorise the defence like he is capable of.
Finally, he must be hungry for success. After witnessing his team bow out to a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Real Madrid, Mo Salah must be bitter about that loss, and his lack of contribution due to his injury. His dream, like every other player, is to win the biggest competition in Europe and shine on the biggest stage. After having tasted the fruits of hard work by reaching the final, he must be ready to push again, create chances, and score more goals for Liverpool to realise his dream. Antoine Griezmann is an example of a player who cried countless times after being eliminated by Real Madrid in the competition. But that pushed him to work harder and await his opportunity, and now he is a World Cup champion. Salah is ready for success. I believe he will replicate his performance. What’s your take?
FT English Premier League Preview: How will Aubameyang fair during a full EPL season?
Pierre Aubameyang will look to continue his excellent form with Arsenal FC this season.
Some call him Arsene Wenger’s gift to Unai Emery. Pierre Aubameyang was the last (mid-season) signing made by the Frenchman before he called time on his long career at Arsenal. There is a lot of hype around the forward and what he is capable of doing. I guess this comes naturally after he claimed Arsenal legend, Thierry Henry’s famous number 14 shirt. The question we try to answer here is how will he fair in a full English Premier League season as compared to other forwards.
The Gabonese international is a well-known predator in front of goal. He scored a total of 23 goals in 29 matches across all competitions in the 2017/18 season. This obviously includes his contribution in Germany before the turn of this year and his record-breaking start in the EPL for Arsenal. He was brought in with a huge pedigree because he managed to outscore some of the best strikers in the world like Robert Lewandowski in the Bundesliga. Now, he has moved to England for a new challenge.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang #14 of Arsenal and Juanfran #20 of Atletico Madrid completes for the ball during the International Champions Cup 2018 match between Club Atletico de Madrid and Arsenal at the National Stadium on July 26, 2018 in Singapore."Thananuwat Srirasant/Getty Images AsiaPac"
The top goal scorer in the previous season was a fellow African, Mohamed Salah, of Egypt who scored 31 goals in 38 matches. Although he scored more than Pierre, the Arsenal man has a better shooting accuracy with 61% and also a better goals-per-match ratio with 0.77. Salah stands at 44% and 0.69 respectively. This on its own, proves that the Gabonese forward is a more efficient goalscorer than the person who lifted the Golden Boot accolade at the end of last season.
It is undoubtedly going to be interesting how Aubameyang will fair in a full season against other top goalscorers in the league including Sergio Aguero, Harry Kane, the above mentioned Mohamed Salah and Romelu Lukaku. The new Arsenal coach, Unai Emery, has been preaching about hard-work and is trying to find a new way for the team to play after being used to the tactics of Wenger for 22 years. The recent pre-season friendlies have shown that the team is becoming quicker in transition, which makes them deadlier on the counter. These tactics certainly suit a player of Aubameyang’s abilities whose pace is unquestionable. He managed to score a hattrick against Boreham Wood in a thumping 8-0 victory for the Arsenal. He managed to achieve all of this without the creative genius of Ozil and Mkhitaryan on the pitch. Just imagine how much more he can accomplish with those deadly passers of the ball on the pitch.
I think that Pierre will be a contender for the Golden Boot award in the English Premier League this season. He has already proved that he can do it in England, and can do it better than Salah so there should not be any reason to doubt his abilities in front of goal. However, there are some worries about his contribution in recent weeks after seeing that the new Arsenal coach is deploying the striker on one of the flanks. Against, Boreham Wood, he played on the left and against Atletico Madrid in the International Champions Cup, he was drifting to the right. This might limit his chances in front of goal and might affect his final standing as far as the top scorers' list is concerned. Who else will be the part of the attacking squad this season?
Romelu Lukaku is also in his second season with Manchester United and has adapted well to Jose Mourinho’s style of play. He scored 16 goals and provided 7 assists for the runners-up in the league. His position in the team is almost guaranteed as the club does not have another out-and-out striker to compete with him for his place in the squad. If he remains fit this season, he will certainly challenge Aubameyang to the top spot on the scoring charts.
Harry Kane is a proven goalscorer in the English Premier League. He has scored more goals in every season since the 2013/14 season. He was the top goal scorer for two years running before Salah came back to England. His Tottenham side is suited for a striker of his abilities and he will be sure to bang in goals. The Englishman seems to be more motivated by goals than trophies which makes him a threat to Aubameyang. He will give it his all to be the highest goalscorer in the league after managing to achieve this feat in the previous World Cup hosted by Russia.
Last but certainly not least. Sergio Kun Aguero. He plays for the defending champions, Manchester City, who won the league with 100 points last season. He scored a total of 21 goals in the league despite being dropped to the bench for Gabriel Jesus on a couple of occasions. Some pundits argued that he was the best finisher in the league, and rightly so, but that was before Salah and Aubameyang came onto the scene. Will he have enough to lift his first golden boot award since 2015?
Top Goal Scorer Predictions:
1. Aubameyang
2. Salah
3. Kane
4. Aguero
5. Lukaku