NEWS
A selection of FirstTouch's best football writing, brought to you by emerging journalists, collaborators, and fans.
FT's 10 Best Moments of 2018: #5 No mercy, Percy
Percy Tau had the whole of South Africa on lockdown in 2018 before jumping ship to Europe, effectively becoming a gift to all of Mamelodi Sundowns’ opponents. More importantly, he has hit the ground running with Belgian side Union SG with 7 goals and 6 assists.
Percy Tau of Mamelodi Sundowns celebrates wuth his team mate after a goal during the FIFA World Cup match for 5th place between Mamelodi Sundowns and Jeonbuk Hyundai at Suita City Football Stadium on December 14, 2016 in Suita, Japan.
(Dec. 13, 2016 - Source: Atsushi Tomura/Getty Images AsiaPac)
At FirstTouch, we have a saying that goes like, “a year is never over until we close it.” In the spirit of that ideal, we took our time to look back at the ten most defining moments of 2018, as far as African football is concerned. Could you guess what they are? Number 5 is up next.
One of the most celebrated African footballers of the year became the 24-year-old Percy Tau, another South African who was highly rated in his home country and electric enough for the world to take notice.
Percy Tau was in sizzling form for Mamelodi Sundowns in their title winning 2017/18 ABSA Premiership campaign. Tau partnered with Zimbabwe’s Khama Billiat upfront in Bafana BaStyle’s setup, also winged by the likes of Themba Zwane and Vilakazi to perfect their infamous shoe-shine piano football (one touch passing). Percy increasingly became ruthless in front of goal, winning the top goal scorer award for the South African League and two other more coveted individual football awards in the country, including the Player Of The Season Award. It was clear to many that the young lad had his whole future ahead of him, with the likes of Senegalese legend in El Hadji Diouf citing that Percy was just as good as Mohamed Salah or Sadio Mane, if not even better. Of course, there were no satisfactory grounds to consider Diouf’s claims given Percy was just a mere star shining in a less known leagues in the Southern-most part of the world. However, the inevitable did happen.
“The match dubbed a Nelson Mandela challenge matchup ended in favour of the La Liga giants. In as much Messi and his colleagues were guilty of a frenzy in Johannesburg, with the Barcelona faithfuls eager to take selfies or see them play live, the night belonged to Percy. The former Mamelodi Sundowns man was unmoved as he rubbed shoulders with Europe’s elite. A wonderfully crafted assist crowned his night which was full of sidesteps and dribbles.”
One of the most anticipated friendly matches that took place at the end of the football league season in May 2018 was contested by Mamelodi Sundowns and the mighty Catalonian giants, Barcelona. The match dubbed a Nelson Mandela challenge matchup ended in favour of the La Liga giants. In as much Messi and his colleagues were guilty of a frenzy in Johannesburg, with the Barcelona faithfuls eager to take selfies or see them play live, the night belonged to Percy. The former Mamelodi Sundowns man was unmoved as he rubbed shoulders with Europe’s elite. A wonderfully crafted assist crowned his night which was full of sidesteps and dribbles. That’s how he announced himself to the rest of the world, eventually landing a South African record transfer deal to Premier League side, Brighton & Hove Albion. A rare chance for a South African footballer was grabbed by a rare footballer.
Since then, Tau’s summer move to Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion was immediately followed by a loan to Belgian side Union SG. Though it initially took a few games, his work ethic has started to create opportunities for more minutes and impact on the pitch, resulting in 7 goals and 6 assists through 19 matches.
Maybe Percy’s true value has shown in 2018 with his performances for South Africa in the 2019 AFCON qualifiers, drawing praise from his opponents, specifically Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr. Ultimately, Tau helped Bafana Bafana qualify behind the Super Eagles for the 2019 competition with some exhilarating performances, whether he was scoring himself, setting up his teammates, or tiring out his opponents with his relentless work rate.
““Congratulations to this player Percy Tau. I hope to see him in a big team in Europe, in England or the championship. He is a really good player.””
As they say in Percy’s former camp in Mamelodi Sundowns, the sky is truly the limit for the 24-year-old.
FT's 10 Best Moments of 2018: #6 Riyad Mahrez gets his move to Manchester
Riyad Mahrez, came to the English Premier League, made his name, and conquered in Leicester colors. Now the long awaited move to a top European club has finally materialized for the Algerian. With 7 goals and 6 assists under Guardiola, it’s safe to say Mahrez is enjoying his time so far in Manchester.
At FirstTouch, we have a saying that goes like, “a year is never over until we close it.” In the spirit of that ideal, we took our time to look back at the ten most defining moments of 2018, as far as African football is concerned. Could you guess what they are? Number 6 is ready for you.
“Talks of how much more the Algerian could contribute given what he achieved with the diminutive Leicester City. Many neutrals, especially Africans wanted him to move and they grew increasingly impatient as the move never seemed to surface.”
Riyad Mahrez of Manchester City celebrates after scoring his team's fourth goal with John Stones of Manchester City during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Burnley FC at Etihad Stadium on October 20, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom.
(Oct. 19, 2018 - Source: Alex Livesey/Getty Images Europe)
Ever since Leicester City pulled off the miracle of winning the 2015/16 English Premier League with the most insignificant odds, Riyad Mahrez had always been linked with a move away from the King Power. The 27-year-old Algerian impressed potential suitors by his stellar performances on the right wing of Claudio Ranieri’s set up, scoring a couple of goals and setting up late bloomer, Jamie Vardy for the Premier League Golden Boot Award of that campaign. Riyad become mostly known for his famous Mahrez chop of cutting inside from the wing, chopping defenders and sagging the far side of the net.
Talks of how much more the Algerian could contribute given what he achieved with the diminutive Leicester City. Many neutrals, especially Africans wanted him to move and they grew increasingly impatient as the move never seemed to surface. Top European clubs such as Arsenal were one of the teams’ who for a long time had Mahrez on their wish list but with no success. It was the noisy neighbors of Manchester who eventually won the Algerian’s signature in the summer of 2018. Even after Pep Guardiola’s plans to get Riyad to City were derailed in January of the same year. The dream transfer became a reality and in Manchester City’s typical lavish spending style, with a record transfer fee for the club of £60 million also becoming the record transfer fee for an African player.
With City looking like they can repeat yesteryear’s record breaking season, Mahrez looks settled in Pep’s squad already making a huge impact in their journey to possible European dominance.
FT's 10 Best Moments of 2018: #7 African Exodus to China
In 2018 Africans found a new home abroad, that has been in China. The 1.3 billion people of the People’s Republic of China were absolutely welcome to some of the biggest names in African football on both the men and women’s side.
At FirstTouch, we have a saying that goes like, “a year is never over until we close it.” In the spirit of that ideal, we took our time to look back at the ten most defining moments of 2018, as far as African football is concerned. Could you guess what they are? Number 7 is here.
Things change everywhere and every time, not least so in football. The year 2018 witnessed a big shift in terms of the preferred destination for African stars.
“There is something about playing in front of a 60,000 crowd who are faithful to throng the stadiums with their numbers every week and sing “glory, glory Man United!” or “you’ll never walk alone.” It’s priceless to the journey of self-actualization for any professional. The newest sponsor of such dreams for African players happen to be the Chinese Super League.”
Villarreal's Congolese forward Cedric Bakambu runs with the ball during the UEFA Europa League group A football match Slavia Prague v Villarreal in Prague on November 2, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / MILAN KAMMERMAYER(Nov. 1, 2017 - Source: AFP)
Europe used to be the ultimate dream for any living footballer whether the one just starting out in the dusty streets of Kumasi, Ghana or the new professional who just signed for a top domestic club in one of Africa’s local leagues. It’s not just the prospect of a bulky salary from the likes of the English Premier League, or the festivities such as the Oktober Beer Festival surrounding the Bundesliga neither the rich history and competitive nature of the La Liga that attracts top players. Adding to that, there is something about playing in front of a 60,000 crowd who are faithful to throng the stadiums with their numbers every week and sing “glory, glory Man United!” or “you’ll never walk alone.” It’s priceless to the journey of self-actualization for any professional. The newest sponsor of such dreams for African players happen to be the Chinese Super League.
Generally, the Chinese are quite adventurous people and their drive to loop in top stars into their football system to build it up is one manifestation of such ambitions. With a population of more than 1.3 billion, almost twice that of Europe, you can sure bet that it’s only a matter of time before China becomes one of the biggest stages of the game as we love it. Africa has had a huge chunk of their stars leaving for the Asian country, not to wind up their careers like old times but to actually play and develop. The likes of DR Congo’s Cedric Bakambu joined Beijing Guoan in a then African transfer record back in March and has just secured his first silverware and the first for the club in 15 years by winning the Chinese Cup. He is no small man as the 27-year-old had become the first and only African Player to win the Spanish La Liga Player of The Month before moving to China. Now, he is more than settled with 23 goals and 7 assists in just 28 appearances for Beijing Guoan. On the League’s scoring charts, only three players better his record including Nigeria’s Odion Ighalo who bagged 21 league goals.
The list goes on and on with Cameroon’s 2017 AFCON winning captain, Benjamin Moukandjo, Nigeria Women’s 2018 AFCON winning ace, Asisat Oshoala, Zimbabwe’s Nyasha Mushekwi, Super Eagles captain in John Obi Mikel also on the growing list of African stars who have jumped ship to China.
What other trends did you notice in 2018?
Are Africans peaking in the English Premier League?
The African football stars all over the world in premium leagues such as the Bundesliga, La Liga, Serie A and quite recently the Chinese Super League, have been usually, a part of the pack. It however seems like they are starting to lead the pack as far as the English Premier League is concerned.
“The Egyptian King won the match ball after scoring a hatrick and gave away his Man Of The Watch Award to James Millner, who clocked 500 premier league appearances in the tie. Last season’s golden boot winner and first runners up to the FIFA Best Male Player of the Year award is finally silencing critics who labelled him a “one-time season wonder.””
We have had legendary African icons repping the continent in the world’s most watched club football league, the English Premier League. I am talking about the likes of Didier Drogba, Samuel Eto’o, the tall striker in Nwanko Kanu and even the controversial Emmanuel Adebayor who represented both of the North London clubs in Arsenal and Tottenham. It’s easy to remember forwards, but they are not all of the Africans who played the game at the highest level. Do you remember Lauren? The Arsenal defender who owned the right wing of the famous “Invincibles” setup? More interestingly, now more than ever – it seems African players are reaching unprecedented levels. They are becoming the extra special toppings of the Premier League cake.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal FC looks on prior to the UEFA Europa League Group E match between Sporting CP and Arsenal at Estadio Jose Alvalade on October 25, 2018 in Lisbon, Portugal.
(Oct. 24, 2018 - Source: Getty Images Europe)
Over the weekend, we once again saw Gabon’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leading the line for the Arsenal. Before that, in midweek, the Gabonese captain had two delightful chances of extending his lead at the top of the scoring charts and required perhaps the world’s best goalkeeper to deny him twice after two wonderfully worked shots. Over the weekend, he was also not on the scoring sheet but put in a solid striker performance, eventually serving up the only assist of the match as Lucas Torreira scored the only goal of the game. Arsenal consequently stayed close to top four positions and did not fall out any further away from the leading title challengers in Liverpool and Manchester City. Which other African is evidencing this peak?
Idrissa Gueye of Everton slides in to tackle Luciano Vietto of Fulham as Lucas Digne of Everton looks on during the Premier League match between Everton FC and Fulham FC at Goodison Park on September 29, 2018 in Liverpool, United Kingdom.
(Sept. 28, 2018 - Source: Alex Livesey/Getty Images Europe)
Mohamed Salah was back amongst the goals, plenty goals for that matter as Liverpool walked away 4-0 winners at difficult Bournemouth, moving above City to the top of the standings. The Egyptian King won the match ball after scoring a hatrick and gave away his Man Of The Watch Award to James Millner, who clocked 500 premier league appearances in the tie. Last season’s golden boot winner and first runners up to the FIFA Best Male Player of the Year award is finally silencing critics who labelled him a “one-time season wonder.”
It’s not only the forwards that give us something to pride in but other players as well. For instance, Everton’s Idrissa Gueye is only second to Crystal Palace’s Wan Bissaka on tackles won this entire campaign. Twice as much as the likes of Arsenal’s heralded signing in Lucas Torreira or the FIFA World XI finalist in Ng’olo Kante. The Senegalese is still pretty much an underrated midfield gem.
Conclusively, just looking at the premier league scoring charts and seeing Aubameyang and Salah tied at the top with ten goals each just goes a long way in highlighting the immediate dominance of Africans in the English Premier League.
UCL Matchday 6: Tuesday’s Major Highlights
Did you spot Mali’s Mousa Marega making champions league history in Porto’s final group game against Turkish champions in Galatasaray? Look no further, we have recapped it here for you, together with other UCL defining moments that pitted Africans on matchday 6.
The final sixteen teams of the 2018/19 UCL campaign are all but confirmed and Africans have had a fair share of being heroes of their teams, disappointing or causing major scalps. Here is a look at some of those.
Mohamed Salah of Liverpool celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Cardiff City at Anfield on October 27, 2018 in Liverpool, United Kingdom.
(Oct. 26, 2018 - Source: Jan Kruger/Getty Images Europe)
Mousa Marega makes history with Champions League darkhorses, Porto
The Portuguese side reached the last sixteen with a few games to spare but has also done so by remaining unbeaten. FC Porto won five of their six matches and drew only one, topped the group and stand as a worthy opponent for any other European side. With their experience of reaching this stage in times past, they undoubtedly have as much chance as anyone to progress to the quarterfinals, more so given their sizzling form. Historic to their impressive performance is Malian, Mousa Marega who is deputising for injured Cameroonian striker in Vincent Aboubakar. Marega became the first African to score in five consecutive champions league matches with a penalty conversion in their 3-2 win against Galatasaray last night. Algeria’s Sofiane Feghouli was instrumental for the Turkish side that fell out fighting after scoring once from the spot but also hitting the crossbar with another penalty that could have earned a point for the Turkish champions. Nigeria’s Henry Onyekuru was also guilty of missing a clear chance for Galatasaray but finished a part of the Europa League bound team that should be proud of their performance.
Magical Salah powers Liverpool into the last 16
Moussa Marega of FC Porto and Mats Hummels of Borussia Dortmund compete for the ball during the UEFA Europa League round of 32 first leg match between Borussia Dortmund and FC Porto at Signal Iduna Park on February 18, 2016 in Dortmund, Germany.
(Feb. 17, 2016 - Source: Dennis Grombkowski/Bongarts)
After bagging a hatrick for the Reds over the weekend, the premier league joint top scorer continued his form by scoring the only goal of the match that narrowly put Liverpool into the knockout stages ahead of last night’s opponent in Napoli by virtue of having scored two more goals than them in the campaign. The same cannot be said for Salah’s striking partner in the returning Senegalese, Sadio Mane who missed a couple of clear chances for the Anfield residents.
Koulibaly and Asamoah in the mix as Napoli and Inter pay for their naivety.
It was almost certain for table topping Napoli to reach the knockout stage, only needing a point at Liverpool to go through. All of Senegalese’s Kalidou Koulibaly fine performances against the likes of PSG and the first leg against Liverpool came crashing down as Carlo Ancelotti’s men fell 1-0 at the hands of Liverpool, ultimately finishing third and bound to the Europa League. The Italian Serie A side in Inter Milan who had just returned to Europe’s premier club competition after a lengthy spell also suffered the same fate after failing to beat PSV in their courtyard eventually surrendering a knockout spot to unexpecting Tottenham. Kwadwo Asamoah and Keita Balde’s team has a few more things to work on before returning to their status as one of Europe’s top clubs.
10 Africans unsettled in the English Premier League: #10 Christian Atsu
The January transfer window is a few weekends away. In our anticipation and excitement of possible moves, we have taken to lay down 10 “unsettled” African stars in the English top flight, the Premier League. The final player on our list is another Ghanaian.
Newcastle player Christian Atsu in action 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)
Of course, it is nice to see the likes of Mo Salah, Percy Tau and Hakim Ziyech shine for their nations over the most recent international break but it also raises questions about some popular names who are finding themselves in sticky situations. There are a number of African players dubbed to be the next Sergio Ramos and Xavis of this world but are currently unsettled at club level. Their potential is endangered by their lack of game time. Here’s a list of the XI players whose progress has stalled. What better time to look at these than now when the January transfer window is fast encroaching?
LW – Christian Atsu
Another Ghanaian international that is unsettled in the English Premier League. Christian Atsu is a talented soccer player graced with the ability to beat defenders at will and provide width for his club. It is unfortunate that the African forward is playing for Newcastle United in these hard times when their owner Mike Ashley is refusing to invest the necessary funds. This has led to Rafa Benitez’s negative tactics against most opponents in the league as they try to avoid conceding goals. The club is not bringing out the best in the forward as they force him all the way back.
Verdict: 26-year-old Atsu should move to a club that plays attractive football. There are several.
10 Africans unsettled in the English Premier League: #9 Isaac Success
The January transfer window is a few weekends away. In our anticipation and excitement of possible moves, we have taken to lay down 10 “unsettled” African stars in the English top flight, the Premier League. The blooming Nigeria who plays for Watford could be a surprise inclusion on this list.
Isaac Success of Watford in action during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Watford FC at Molineux on October 20, 2018 in Wolverhampton, United Kingdom.
(Oct. 19, 2018 - Source: Getty Images Europe)
Of course, it is nice to see the likes of Mo Salah, Percy Tau and Hakim Ziyech shine for their nations over the most recent international break but it also raises questions about some popular names who are finding themselves in sticky situations. There are a number of African players dubbed to be the next Sergio Ramos and Xavis of this world but are currently unsettled at club level. Their potential is endangered by their lack of game time. Here’s a list of the XI players whose progress has stalled. What better time to look at these than now when the January transfer window is fast encroaching?
CF – Isaac Success
The Nigerian international is a youngster who has been in the books of Watford since 2016. The 22-year old forward had to wait for his opportunity in the English Premier League for a long time till Javi Garcia’s arrival. This season he has played in 8 matches including 4 starts and has scored 3 goals in all competitions. Success has got more to offer but is still being blocked by the limited game-time he is getting despite it being an improvement from last season. The player has the potential to become a regular for Watford and make a name for himself in the EPL among the best Africans to have played in the league.
Verdict: He should request to be loaned out to a newly-promoted club in the English Premier League like Wolverhampton Wanderers and get accustomed to the demands of the league.
10 Africans unsettled in the English Premier League: #8 Victor Moses
The January transfer window is a few weekends away. In our anticipation and excitement of possible moves, we have taken to lay down 10 “unsettled” African stars in the English top flight, the Premier League. The Nigerian who hung up his international boots earlier this year also finds himself on the list.
Victor Moses of Chelsea in action during the pre-season friendly match between Chelsea and Lyon at Stamford Bridge on August 7, 2018 in London, England.
(Aug. 6, 2018 - Source: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images Europe)
Of course, it is nice to see the likes of Mo Salah, Percy Tau and Hakim Ziyech shine for their nations over the most recent international break but it also raises questions about some popular names who are finding themselves in sticky situations. There are a number of African players dubbed to be the next Sergio Ramos and Xavis of this world but are currently unsettled at club level. Their potential is endangered by their lack of game time. Here’s a list of the XI players whose progress has stalled. What better time to look at these than now when the January transfer window is fast encroaching?
RW – Victor Moses
At times, we make sacrifices in life with the hope of gaining a lot from those hard decisions. Often times, it pays off except for those specific times when the luck is not on our side. I think this best describes Victor Moses’ decision to retire from the national team to focus on his Chelsea career. The former Nigerian international resigned from playing for the Super Eagles shortly after the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia before Sarri was announced as the new Chelsea boss. The Italian then made his way to the West London club and has since preferred Willian and Pedro ahead of him. In pre-season, Callum Hudson-Odoi who has a Ghanaian heritage shined in his absence and even more, the club is being linked to the unsettled Manchester United forward, Anthony Martial.
Verdict: I think the club is pushing the 27-year-old out. A team like West Ham can benefit from a player of his traits.
10 Africans unsettled in the English Premier League: #7 Daniel Amartey
The January transfer window is a few weekends away. In our anticipation and excitement of possible moves, we have taken to lay down 10 “unsettled” African stars in the English top flight, the Premier League. The Ghanaian EPL title winner with the Foxes back in 2015/16 season is the seventh man on the list.
Leicester player Daniel Amartey in action 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)
Of course, it is nice to see the likes of Mo Salah, Percy Tau and Hakim Ziyech shine for their nations over the most recent international break but it also raises questions about some popular names who are finding themselves in sticky situations. There are a number of African players dubbed to be the next Sergio Ramos and Xavis of this world but are currently unsettled at club level. Their potential is endangered by their lack of game time. Here’s a list of the XI players whose progress has stalled. What better time to look at these than now when the January transfer window is fast encroaching?
CM: Daniel Amartey
We all know the importance of versatile players in the squad who can come in and get the job done in the absence of specialists in that specific position. Leicester FC have their own in Daniel Amartey who is comfortable playing out of position in the right-back and centre-back roles. The problem comes when the player is then seen as just a stop-measure for that position and not as an expert in their own field. For example, Amartey is now being seen in the RB position more than in the midfield after the club invested in other “dirty” workers like Wilfred Ndidi and Nampalys Mendy.
Verdict: It looks unlikely that the 23-year-old will usurp Ndidi, so he should consider making the right-back position his own like Lauren did in Arsenal’s Invincibles season.
Is there a big club who does not want Napoli & Senegalese's Koulibaly?
Kalidou Koulibaly is now easily one of the best centre-backs in the world if not the best. His displays in the Italian Serie A, UEFA Champions League and even at the 2018 FIFA World Cup have made him a highly experienced asset bound to become the world’s most expensive defender if he switches clubs. A potential move looks imminent as the top clubs circle the 27-year-old.
“Chelsea tried their luck with €100 million but it was not enough to tempt the Italian club. The response was a straight up “Koulibaly is not for sale.””
Kalidou Koulibaly of SSC Napoli in action during the serie A match between SSC Napoli and AC Milan at Stadio San Paolo on August 25, 2018 in Naples, Italy.
(Aug. 25, 2018 - Source: Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images Europe)
When I was growing up, all I knew was that nothing sells better than hot cookies on a cold day. But, now that I am this old I have realized that talent sells more than anything in soccer. Kalidou Koulibaly has seen this “my phenomenon” come true in his life, as every day, he and Napoli have to continuously reject big European clubs that want to add him to their squads. What is it that these clubs are really looking to get from the Senegalese defender?
A precious gift for Mourinho after failing to land Alderweireld
Jose Mourinho and the Red Devils, did not even go behind the walls to admit this but backed his wish to have the 27-year-old Senegalese defender in his team by tabling an £80 million offer. Even though this is an incredible price for a defender (which would surpasses the world record defender fee of £75m), reports insist that Napoli player demanded £90 million for what they have groomed with intricate care. It is not, however, clear if the Red Devils will succumb to this demand but all we know is that, right now, Koulibaly is still doing bits at Napoli.
Chelsea have their eyes on him
During the World Cup, Chelsea also had their eyes set on the Senegalese “wall,” impressed by Koulibaly’s physique that enables him to make short passes while keeping an eagle’s eye on the opponent. He was voted amongst the Top 11’ at the annual Oscar del Calcio gala last November. Chelsea tried their luck with €100 million but it was not enough to tempt the Italian club. The response was a straight up “Koulibaly is not for sale.”
Even Liverpool wanted a piece of Koulibaly
At some point before acquiring the Virgil Van Dyk in a current record deal for a defender Liverpool also tried their luck with a £36.7million bid and they too got the same rejection. Even though Koulibaly did express that he would be interested in playing for a Premier League club (not specifically Liverpool), right now he has to stay with Napoli. But will he really?
Neymar of Paris Saint-Germain is challenged by Mario Rui and Kalidou Koulibaly of Napoli during the Group C match of the UEFA Champions League between Paris Saint-Germain and SSC Napoli at Parc des Princes on October 24, 2018 in Paris, France.
(Oct. 23, 2018 - Source: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images Europe)
The catch
If the player is in such high demand, why can’t his club really let him go? The player has a contract that obligates him to be with Napoli until the June of 2023 so that is why his club has such a strong grip on his negotiations. At least, all these clubs have about 5 years to sweeten their deals, polish their approaches and spice up their baits until they get hold of this player. The player is also personally committed to the team and his coach. He was reported saying, my coach “rediscovered me, he gave me confidence. He really is a genius, he sees things others don’t see. He makes you understand how football is and isn’t predictable.”
After all is said and done, take my word for it, it looks like it’s going to become increasingly harder to keep the one of the world’s finest of not “the finest”. A potential move is imminent. The real question is when?
10 Africans unsettled in the English Premier League: #6 Mo Elneny
The January transfer window is a few weekends away. In our anticipation and excitement of possible moves, we have taken to lay down 10 “unsettled” African stars in the English top flight, the Premier League. Arsenal’s Egyptian midfielder is also on the ten-man list.
Mohamed Elneny of Arsenal is challenged by Vyacheslav Sharpar of Vorskla Poltava during the UEFA Europa League Group E match between Arsenal and Vorskla Poltava at Emirates Stadium on September 20, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.
(Sept. 19, 2018 - Source: Henry Browne/Getty Images Europe)
Of course, it is nice to see the likes of Mo Salah, Percy Tau and Hakim Ziyech shine for their nations over the most recent international break but it also raises questions about some popular names who are finding themselves in sticky situations. There are a number of African players dubbed to be the next Sergio Ramos and Xavis of this world but are currently unsettled at club level. Their potential is endangered by their lack of game time. Here’s a list of the XI players whose progress has stalled. What better time to look at these than now when the January transfer window is fast encroaching?
CM – Mohamed Elneny
Egyptian international Mo Elneny is no newcomer to this feisty topic about African talent being wasted in some of the top clubs in Europe. The 26-year old looks comfortable being used as a fringe player in the post-Arsene Wenger era at The Arsenal. There are not many midfielders with his passing range in the locker but a lot of questions are raised about his defensive contribution. Compared to the other midfielders in the Arsenal team, he looks a part but does not offer something extra to make him stand out ahead of Lucas Torreira, Matteo Guendouzi and Aaron Ramsey. Maybe his best position is as a box-to-box midfielder free of defensive duties and Arsenal will not offer him that.
Verdict: The Egyptian should find a smaller club like Bournemouth, Burnley or Huddersfield where he can cement a starting berth and break teams on the counter with his quick passes.
10 Africans unsettled in the English Premier League: #5 Victor Wanyama
The January transfer window is a few weekends away. In our anticipation and excitement of possible moves, we have taken to lay down 10 “unsettled” African stars in the English top flight, the Premier League. As we continue with the countdown, Kenya’s Wanyama occupies the fifth player on the list.
Victor Wanyama of Tottenham Hotspur and Harry Kane of Tottenham Hotspur warm up prior to the Group B match of the UEFA Champions League between Tottenham Hotspur and FC Barcelona at Wembley Stadium on October 3, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.
(Oct. 2, 2018 - Source: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Europe)
Of course, it is nice to see the likes of Mo Salah, Percy Tau and Hakim Ziyech shine for their nations over the most recent international break but it also raises questions about some popular names who are finding themselves in sticky situations. There are a number of African players dubbed to be the next Sergio Ramos and Xavis of this world but are currently unsettled at club level. Their potential is endangered by their lack of game time. Here’s a list of the XI players whose progress has stalled. What better time to look at these than now when the January transfer window is fast encroaching?
DM – Victor Mugubi Wanyama
Enough has been said already about the Kenyan defensive midfielder who is finding minutes very hard to come by at Wembley Stadium (Tottenham Hotspur’s temporary home stadium). Mauricio Pochettino was right to identify the player as the solution to the hole in the middle that had been left by Sandro at Tottenham. In all fairness, the player was thrown straight into the team and shined in his first season at the club in the 2016/17 English Premier League season. He however, has been ousted by the likes of Harry Winks, Eric Dier and even Moussa Sissoko. Wanyama is currently being played in the cup games against lesser teams whilst Pochettino’s first preferences are given a necessary break. This is an unusual situation for a player who was one of the first names on the team sheet at both Celtic and Southampton before his big move to the North London club. At 27, the player is reaching his prime years and cannot be wasted warming the bench at Tottenham when he is more than capable of competing for a first team position within the defensive midfield role at any top club in Europe.
Verdict: He should drop his CV by Manchester City and Arsenal’s doors as he walks out of White Hart Lane.
FT Sideline: Why has Aubameyang been so prolific?
The Gabonese captain has seamlessly switched to the Emirates stadium and has quickly become one of the Premier League’s most respected strikers. With 20 goals for Arsenal in 31 matches and joint EPL top scorer alongside Sergio Aguero this season, the numbers are starting to look like his Dortmund days. But what makes him tick?
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal looks on during the UEFA Europa League Group E match between Sporting CP and Arsenal at Estadio Jose Alvalade on October 25, 2018 in Lisbon, Portugal.
(Oct. 24, 2018 - Source: David Ramos/Getty Images Europe)
There is no use trying to make a case why Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is one of the best strikers in the world, simply because everyone knows and vehemently agree. It’s a better use of time exploring what makes him tick, with the hope that such attributes can be learned and passed down to future generations of African and global strikers at large.
It is know that modern strikers usually go through what is famously knowns as a “goal drought,” September used to be a boogey month for Harry Kane, Suarez is relatively going through a drought right now at Barcelona despite the impressive overall performances, Manchester United’s Romelu Lukaku and the list goes on and on. The point is that the barren periods are almost part and parcel of a striker’s package. But, that’s not Aubameyang. The Gabonese captain has been scoring at least 30 goals a season since 2015 at Borussia Dortmund and before that, as a developing footballer in France and other places, he would hit at least half of the thirty goals. He was never an out and out striker to begin with, he just recently developed this goal scoring wit and has never looked back. But why is he immune to the droughts? Why is he so prolific?
Here are two simple reasons why:
1. Simplicity, the ultimate sophistication
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal scores his team's first goal during the UEFA Europa League Group E match between Arsenal and Vorskla Poltava at Emirates Stadium on September 20, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.
(Sept. 19, 2018 - Source: Henry Browne/Getty Images Europe)
It’s modern “wisdom” that a good striker should contribute to overall play of the team, tracking back to help with defensive duties on set pieces, holding up play, taking on defenders, laying up assists for teammates and many other things. Harry Kane is increasingly becoming a member of this bracket after criticism of “selfishness,” Alexandre Lacazette is Arsenal’s version of that “modern striker” and Suarez is not a stranger to such duties at Barcelona. Now, Auba is different. The 29 year-old knows how to score goals and fundamentally sticks to that. His dribbling game is not the best nor is his hold-up play. He usually goes “missing” when his team is on the ropes but at any moment, with the slightest of chances - he can ripple the net. The African striker’s winner over the weekend which bagged all three points for Arsenal resembles this attribute of coming out of nowhere to turn the tide in the favor of his colors. Joking with his teammate, Sead Kolasinac who was the assist provider on the day, Auba even posted on instagram about how he loves tap in goals. He is the kind of guy who does not clutter his game with a lot of “best practices” or “modern tactics” but does one thing well enough to dominate the rest. No wonder he is currently joint-top scorer with Manchester City’s Sergio Aguero in the Premier League tied at 8 goals for the campaign. It’s this “one dimensional” play that has enabled him to reach 20 goals in 31 matches for the Gunners, quicker than the time Thierry Henry or legend Ian Wright took.
2. Lightning pace
Lightning and Auba usually go in the same sentence because he is that quick. EA Sports didn’t rate him the fastest play on FIFA 18 for no reason. It is this pace that aids him to latch on crosses the quickest and make a meal of no ingredients at all. Those tap in goes and numerous strikes inside the box, it’s never because defenders do not know what he will probably do, they just can’t catch him.
“Auba even posted on instagram about how he loves tap in goals. He is the kind of guy who does not clutter his game with a lot of “best practices” or “modern tactics” but does one thing well enough to dominate the rest. No wonder he is currently joint-top scorer with Manchester City’s Sergio Aguero.”
Conclusively, Arsenal look like they are more than sorted in their attack with Lacazette complimenting the Gabonese in numerous ways. They will however need to continuously learn to play to his strengths if they are going to get the most out of the Gabonese international.
UCL Matchday 5: Five Africans key to the week's turning points
Zimbabwe, Central African Republic, Egypt, Morocco and Ghana’s representatives are needed more than ever by their teams if they are to turn the tide in their favor as far as the Champions League is concerned this week. Check out why!
It’s matchday five of the 2018/19 champions league season and teams are closer to securing knockout stage qualification or getting eliminated than they were a few match-days ago. There are a number of Africans who have been grabbing headlines in Europe’s elite club competition we have been covering thus far, such as Moussa Marega, Kalidou Koulibaly, Andre Onana and more. Of special interest are the following five who are super critical to the fate of their clubs this champions league week.
Mohamed Salah of Liverpool celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Watford FC and Liverpool FC at Vicarage Road on November 24, 2018 in Watford, United Kingdom.
(Nov. 23, 2018 - Source: Richard Heathcote/Getty Images Europe)
Mohamed Salah
Last season’s UCL finalists, Liverpool, find themselves in a precarious position in group C with only two matches left, of which one is this week’s trip to Parc de Princes. PSG are too proud to entertain the idea of missing out on a knockout stage qualification and even more so by losing home and away to Liverpool. The Reds will have to count on their Egyptian talisman or Senegal’s Sadio Mane to deliver the goods on a difficult away match if they are to stay alive in the champions league.
Hakim Ziyech
The top man in the Dutch Eredivisie who was also at the top of his game in Morocco’s 2-0 hammering of Cameroon in the 2019 AFCON qualifiers as he scored all the goals in that match will be called upon again on Tuesday. A win against winless AEK Athens will guarantee qualification and the 25-year-old playmaker has the magic wand to inspire that.
Geoffrey Kondogbia
Manchester United’s surprising win in Turin meant that Valencia’s hopes of reaching the round of 16 got slimmer. The Spanish La Liga side will travel to Italy to face Cristiano Ronaldo and Juventus who are yet to confirm their qualification and eager to put the United loss behind them. If Valencia is to stay alive, given that United welcome bottom of the group, Young Boys at Old Trafford, Central African Republic’s Geoffrey Kondogbia will be key in locking that midfield and establishing a base of hope for the Bats.
Geoffrey Kondogbia of Valencia is challenged by Alexis Sanchez of Manchester United during the Group H match of the UEFA Champions League between Manchester United and Valencia at Old Trafford on October 2, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom.
(Oct. 1, 2018 - Source: Michael Regan/Getty Images Europe)
Kwadwo Asamoah
Tottenham are on a high after handing Chelsea their first defeat of the season on Saturday. Their slim champions league hopes rest on a must-win encounter against Inter Milan on Wednesday at Wembley. The 29-year-old Ghanaian, Kwadwo will be required to nullify the threat from the right wing that usually come in form of crosses by either Trippier or Ivorian, Serge Aurier. Such crosses have become the hallmark of Spurs’ game and Kwadwo will be required to be on the job throughout the 90.
Marvelous Nakamba
Belgium’s Club Brugge are not down and out in the champions league. If they are to pull an upset in a group where Atletico Madrid and Dortmund are expected to progress, they have to get a result on Wednesday when they travel to Germany. Zimbabwe’s Marvelous Nakamba who has become the proper steel in Club Brugge’s central midfield will have to be called upon to work overtime on the day to stop the likes of Jadon Sancho, Paco Alcacer, Mario Gotze and Marco Reus.
Who do you have? We got the week’s big five listed above. It’s going to be lit.
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.
10 Africans unsettled in the English Premier League: #4 Baba Rahman
The January transfer window is a few weekends away. In our anticipation and excitement of possible moves, we have taken to lay down 10 “unsettled” African stars in the English top flight, the Premier League. The fourth man on the list is a member of the Chelsea loan system who hails from Ghana.
Baba Rahman of Schalke looks on during the UEFA Europa League match between FC Schalke 04 and OGC Nice at Veltins-Arena on November 24, 2016 in Gelsenkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia.
(Nov. 23, 2016 - Source: Stuart Franklin/Bongarts)
Of course, it is nice to see the likes of Mo Salah, Percy Tau and Hakim Ziyech shine for their nations over the most recent international break but it also raises questions about some popular names who are finding themselves in sticky situations. There are a number of African players dubbed to be the next Sergio Ramos and Xavis of this world but are currently unsettled at club level. Their potential is endangered by their lack of game time. Here’s a list of the XI players whose progress has stalled. What better time to look at these than now when the January transfer window is fast encroaching?
LB – Abdul Baba Rahman
Abdul Baba Rahman can be seen by many as a victim of the vicious Chelsea loan system which rarely yields opportunities to the youngsters. The Ghanaian left-back is currently on-loan at Joel Matip’s old club, FC Schalke 04 where he has played only three matches this campaign. When looking at Maurizio Sarri’s style of play, a quick defender with an ability to play quick short passes looks destined to be treasured by the Italian coach in his Chelsea setup, but that’s not yet the case. It has not been the case either for the previous manager Antonio Conte who vetoed moves for Marcos Alonso and even acquired Emerson Palmieri to play ahead of the African defender in the left-back spot. Although Baba Rahman is just 24, the youngster needs a clear picture of the future plans of the club. If he is not careful, he could fall into the trap that swallowed youngsters like Lucas Piazon, Nathaniel Chalobah, Tammy Abraham, and Tomas Kalas whom are unlikely to feature in a Chelsea jersey anytime soon.
Verdict: He should sit down with Chelsea and find out if he is going to be a part of their future plans. If not, he must be allowed to leave this coming summer.
10 Africans unsettled in the English Premier League: #3 Joel Matip
The January transfer window is a few weekends away. In our anticipation and excitement of possible moves, we have taken to lay down 10 “unsettled” African stars in the English top flight, the Premier League. Number 3 on our list is a former Cameroonian international.
Joel Matip of Liverpool celebrates after scoring his team's second goal during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Southampton FC at Anfield on September 22, 2018 in Liverpool, United Kingdom.
(Sept. 21, 2018 - Source: Alex Livesey/Getty Images Europe)
Of course, it is nice to see the likes of Mo Salah, Percy Tau and Hakim Ziyech shine for their nations over the most recent international break but it also raises questions about some popular names who are finding themselves in sticky situations. There are a number of African players dubbed to be the next Sergio Ramos and Xavis of this world but are currently unsettled at club level. Their potential is endangered by their lack of game time. Here’s a list of the XI players whose progress has stalled. What better time to look at these than now when the January transfer window is fast encroaching?
CB – Joel Matip
The former Cameroon captain is another African player based in the English Premier League that is finding minutes very hard to come by. Joel Matip has been pushed further away from the first team by the resurgence of Englishman Joe Gomez who has cemented his position alongside Virgil Van Dijk in the centre of the Liverpool team’s defence. Matip, widely regarded as a wall in the German Bundesliga for his heroic antics in blocking threats from his goal, has gradually lost his X-factor at the Anfield club where he is continuously in and out of the team. It seems that he is still the same player from Germany when watching him play but without a guaranteed place in the team.
Verdict: Matip needs a manager who trusts in the 27-year-old’s abilities to fulfil his potential and Klopp is not looking like the right manager for him. There are greener pastures!
10 Africans unsettled in the English Premier League: #2 Eric Bailly
The January transfer window is a few weekends away. In our anticipation and excitement of possible moves, we have taken to lay down 10 “unsettled” African stars in the English top flight, the Premier League. Since its Thanksgiving, we are letting out number 1 & 2 at the same time!
Jose Mourinho, Manager of Manchester United in discussion with Eric Bailly of Manchester United during the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Manchester United at Turf Moor on September 2, 2018 in Burnley, United Kingdom.
(Sept. 1, 2018 - Source: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Europe)
Preamble
Of course, it is nice to see the likes of Mo Salah, Percy Tau and Hakim Ziyech shine for their nations over the most recent international break but it also raises questions about some popular names who are finding themselves in sticky situations. There are a number of African players dubbed to be the next Sergio Ramos and Xavis of this world but are currently unsettled at club level. Their potential is endangered by their lack of game time. Here’s a list of the XI players whose progress has stalled. What better time to look at these than now when the January transfer window is fast encroaching?
CB: Eric Bertrand Bailly
The Manchester United centre-back who has been in and out of the team. Eric Bailly was one of the most trusted players by Jose Mourinho in that shaky United defence but has somewhat failed to live up to the Portuguese’ expectations. Bailly has since been criticised by the former Real Madrid head coach and has found himself down the pecking order behind Victor Lindelof, Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and even the returning Marcos Rojo. It is no secret that Bailly has the command, pace and aerial threat to get the job done but needs to learn from his mistakes.
My Verdict: The 24-year-old is at the right club and should up his game to deserve a place in the team.