We argue Real Madrid could be fixed in two Senegalese signatures

“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.”

— Tinotenda Magiya, FirstTouch Africa

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.

"Hosting AFCON 2019 good for Egyptian Football" - Mo Salah

Mohamed Salah of Egypt warms up before the International Friendly between Portugal and Egypt at the Letzigrund Stadium on March 23, 2018 in Zurich, Switzerland.

(March 22, 2018 - Source: Robert Hradil/Getty Images Europe)

The Egyptian forward, 26, was speaking after being crowned 2018 African Footballer of The Year in Senegal last week after beating his teammate, Senegal’s Sadio Mane and Arsenal forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from Gabon.

“It’s the right time for Egypt – as we have to be clear – our league is not a top league in Africa at the moment,” said Salah.

Egypt hosts AFCON at a time when football supporters across the country have renewed excitement, following the  lifting of a 6-year ban on attending matches in September 2018. The Sports Ministry of Egypt had banned all football matches in Egypt in 2012,  following a riot at Port Stadium, that killed at least 73 people.

"The fans are going to be back in the stadium, and everything is going to be back like before," he said, excitedly.

Egypt was named Host after beating South Africa, the only other nation to place a bid during a CAF executive vote in Dakar, Senegal. Cameroon was chosen first as AFCON 2019 host, but they were later denied hosting rights on the grounds of slow preparation and security concerns.

The AFCON 24-team finals commence in June, which means Egypt has got less than 5 months to prepare for the tournament, which they will be hosting for the fifth time.

Egypt also remains the most successful nation in The Africa Cup of Nations’ history, having won the tournament a whooping 7 times. (1957, 1959, 1986, 1998, 2006, 2008, 2010.)

"I'm sure everyone knows about Egypt and the seven Africa Cups - we're going to look for number eight now, and this is the best time to start to be back like before.”

Hosting AFCON opens up countless opportunities to Host Nations, such as increased levels of global television coverage, sponsorship for national leagues from top brands, increased opportunities for tourism and financial boosts by local governments.

The Ivorian attack can give anyone a run for their money at AFCON 2019

Maxwel Cornet of Olympique Lyonnais celebrates as he scores his team's second goal during the UEFA Champions League Group F match between Olympique Lyonnais and Manchester City at Groupama Stadium on November 27, 2018 in Lyon, France.

(Nov. 26, 2018 - Source: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Europe)

The 32nd edition of the Total Africa Cup of Nations is now just a few months away and it wouldn’t be premature for the battling nations to start oiling their machines nor is too early to start talking about it. Before the Egypt, June finals there are still some elusive AFCON spots up for grabs as the qualifiers come to a conclusion in March 2019. Of major interest to us right now, is the potential Ivorian forward line. It’s just something to behold.

The Elephants of Ivory Coast have already confirmed their place among the June 2019 finalists after an impressive qualifying campaign that have them lying second in Group H, three points behind Guinea. Of course the two-time AFCON champions have quality players in every position in their squad with the likes of Manchester United’s Eric Bailly, Tottenham’s Serge Aurier, Franck Kessie of AC Milan, Jean Seri of Premier League’s Fulham among many others. Quite notably, is their front line, thronged with individuals who have been grabbing headlines everywhere.

Wilfried Zaha

Mr. Crystal Palace needs no introduction. Zaha has overtime become the Premier League side’s most important player and the dread of any defender in the English top flight. The 26-year-old has since scored 25 goals and assisted 16 others from wide positions ever since joining the Selhurst park residents in the 2014/15 season, helping them stay alive in the Premier League. He actually became the record-scorer for Palace in the English top flight league when he banged his 24th goal for the club against Watford back in 2018. Endowed with great lower and upper body strength, quick feet and sizzling dribbles; Zaha is unplayable on his day. No wonder, Liverpool and English international, Trent Alexander Arnold, labelled him, the most difficult opponent, ahead of even Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi.

“On the day, I’d say Zaha was the hardest. Just his athleticism. You can’t get the ball off him, hard to tackle, fast, skilful, can score goals, set them up, a match-winner. With Neymar and Ronaldo, you can see they are very intelligent players, people who know their trade, different movements, but they never got much of the ball against us. Obviously Zaha is not at a level of Ronaldo and Neymar, but for me on the day Zaha was probably the hardest.”

— Trent-Alexander Anorld, Liverpool and England Defender

He has even been a subject of big money transfers rumors to the likes of Borussia Dortmund and Tottenham before penning a new deal with Crystal Palace in 2018. With only 2 international goals to his name since switching allegiance from England to Ivory Coast, you can be assured that Zaha will be hungry whenever he puts on that orange Elephants shirt.

Nicolas Pepe of the Ivory Coast controls the ball during the International Friendly match between the Ivory Coast and Senegal at the Stade Charlety on March 27, 2017 in Paris, France.

(March 26, 2017 - Source: Dan Mullan/Getty Images Europe)

Nicolas Pepe

The 23-year-old is my personal favorite. The Lille forward is one of the hottest names around in world of football today. He has become the French Ligue 1 side’s wildcard in their unlikely Champions League qualification spot pursuit. Pepe has already scored 13 league goals and assisted 7 others so far in the 2018/19 season for LOSC Lille. He is actually just one goal shy of top scorer, PSG’s Kylian Mbappe and very much in the race for the league’s award to the most prolific player. Pepe also boasts of the highest tally of 52 shots with 33 of them hitting the target. Even in the January transfer window, his name has carried a price tag as high as €100 million with the likes of Arsenal rumored to have been interested in the winger. As Ghanaians would say, Nicolas will surely “score you and put pepe(chilli) in your eyes”.

Maxwell Cornet

This particular one is less popular but just as lethal. The 22-year-old used  2018 to cement his position in the young Lyon team that has been devastating and with an equally entertaining style of play. Cornet made major headlines after banging a crucial goal that helped Lyon upset Manchester City, 2-1 at the Etihad on matchday 1 of the 2018/19 UEFA Champions League group stage. As luck would have it, his two other goals in the European competition came at home in the return leg against City, helping Lyon secure an important 2-2 draw. Cornet is that physically built wide man who is able to cut inside, score both from close and long range and more similar to Zaha than he is different.

Now, being individually brilliant is one thing and jellying together as a unit is an entirely different story. These three actually have attributes that make them naturally intertwined and an infallible force when they play together. Zaha and Cornet on either wing and Pepe leading the frontline, its need for speed and goals galore regardless of who they play. The real question is will Ibrahima Kamara play them together? Would you?

Remember the name Samuel Chukwueze

When one receives the ball on the flank, gets enough time to switch it to his favored left foot, goes at Marcelo, drops a shoulder to call in Casemiro to assist his compatriot, before Toni Kroos and Sergio Ramos are required to put out the fire - you know what’s up. An unknown attacker just knocked at Real Madrid’s door unannounced and introduced himself to the world in a language punctuated by yet another left foot for Real Madrid to lose sleep over. The Nigerian teenager, Samuel Chimerenka Chukwueze, looks to be a real talent.

He needed only 4-minutes

“He is the type you don’t introduce to the “big league” but rather entreat the big game to welcome the youngster, roll out the red carpet if they have to. ”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

Of course the night belonged to former Arsenal midfielder, Santi Cazorla but was seemingly scripted in Chukwueze’s hometown of Ikwuano, Abia State in Nigeria. Cazorla, 34, grabbed a brace as the yellow submarine of Villareal shared the spoils with the European and club world cup champions in a La Liga matchday 18 encounter. The 19-year-old Samuel was however completely focused on other business, touching every ball as if it was the last time - very much persuaded to leave it all on the pitch as he took the rare chance afforded him by Luis Garcia. After making his first team debut for Villareal on 20 September 2018, Chukwueze has already created experiences that justifies him being mistaken with more established stars of the modern game. One other notable experience occurred just four minutes into the Madrid match, the boy is surely not one to have cold feet. Chukwueze burst into the Los Blancos box inviting world cup winner, Raphael Varane to challenge for the ball before dropping a shoulder and squeezing a delightful pass between Casemiro and the former. The pass met the unmarked Cazorla who had the simple task of curling it into the far bottom corner.

There isn’t actually a lot to tell about Chukwueze who signed for Villareal’s youth side in 2017 from his home town’s Diamond Football Academy. He made his senior debut for the Yellow Submarine’s reserve side on 15 April 2018 before the first team debut in September of the same year against Glasgow Rangers in the 2018/19 UEFA Europa League. Samuel first tested Spanish La Liga football early November against Levante, also making his international senior debut later that month for the Super Eagles in a 0-0 friendly draw against Uganda. As you can tell, he hasn’t had a lot of caps or minutes come his way, with only 8 league appearances where he has contributed 2 goals and 1 assist. He has however shown his worth on every occasion. He is the type you don’t introduce to the “big league” but rather entreat the big game to welcome the youngster, roll out the red carpet if they have to. He knows what it means to take his chances and at this rate, only a few stops will he need to reach global stardom if any at all. What about his playing style?

The “reincarnation” of Arjen Robben?

One famous “one legged rooster” in the global game is about to call it quits but may be re-incarnated in the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup Bronze Boot winner. Chukwueze has been likened to Bayern Munich’s Arjen Robben who is famous for terrorising defenders on one foot. The Dutch footballer is literally flat footed, able to play with only his left-foot and the young Nigerian looks to be resembling the same trait. Running at players in full speed, cutting inside the box unhindered, laying up passes or going at goal - almost like a hot knife cutting through butter. Just like Robben who swirled in the Spain box at the 2014 FIFA world cup, twisting and turning Ramos, Pique and Casillas who almost kindly started sweeping the pitch with their arms, before he banged the ball into the roof of the net - Samuel looks well capable to re-introduce such.

It’s another beautiful 2019 day, another Nigerian and African star added to the fold. The high school that gave the infamous African novelist, Chinua Achebe to the world, has added a  second gift in Samuel Chimerenka Chukwueze.

FT 2019 Preview: From relegation threat to champions, will the Clever Boys go the distance?

“Sticking to their trusted gaffer, Gavin Hunt, they strung through a series of impressive performances in the closing stages eventually managing a 13th place finish. Now, it’s all happening again, they are back to riches from rags, three points clear at the summit – midway through the season. ”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

Nothing defines the ABSA Premiership like the word drama. Title winning miracles such as those pulled off by Leicester City are almost the order of the day in the South African League. Quite recently, what we had predicted for the season is all in vain by reason of the ever exciting unexpected turn of events that don’t just want to take a break.

Orlando Pirates captain Lucky Lekgwathi holds aloft the premiership trophy after winning the Absa Premiership Final match between Orlando Pirates and the Golden Arrows at Orlando Stadium on May 21, 2011 in Soweto, South Africa.

(May 20, 2011 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

The witty coach, the ever philosophical Steve Komphela whom we thought could eventually win some silverware at Bloemfontein Celtic, resigned just six months into his job blindsiding Phunya Sele Sele. A presumably leaked resignation letter circulating on social media reveals working conditions and a lack of professionalism as the reasons for him quitting. On the other hand, Soweto is black as Kaizer Chiefs’ problems cannot seem to go away as their losing run to rivals, Pirates have now reached a disturbing one win in ten match ups. More interestingly are the prospects of the Students, otherwise known as the Clever Boys. Bidvest Wits survived a major scare last season, spending the better half of the campaign rooted in bottom position, that was after winning the championship in the previous season, the 2016/17 campaign. Sticking to their trusted gaffer, Gavin Hunt, they strung through a series of impressive performances in the closing stages eventually managing a 13th place finish. Now, it’s all happening again, they are back to riches from rags, three points clear at the summit – midway through the season.

They have second best defensive record, conceding only 9 in 15 matches and their unmatched scoring prowess has seen them go ahead of the likes of defending champions, Sundowns and the hungry Ghost of Soweto in Pirates who last won the title in the 2011-12 season. It promises to be an exhilarating spectacle and 2019 will show us the winners of the race.

It’s the determined Students going all out with the vengeful Ghost while the prideful Sundowns sit on the sidelines, whereas Matsatsantsa (SuperSport United) and Polokwane City await an opportunity to intrude.

The curious case of Pogba's pendulum-like performances

The case

Paul Pogba of Manchester United celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Everton FC at Old Trafford on October 28, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom.

(Oct. 27, 2018 - Source: Michael Regan/Getty Images Europe)

There he stands, looking at the goal totally unmoved but almost immediately, agrees with the crowd. He nods repeatedly and as the cameras zoom in on the French international, its evident he is uttering the words, “Pogba, Pogba, Pogba!” approving his own ingenuity. He then raises his right arm and then points to the United faithfuls suggesting it was all for them, freshly baked PogBoom, PogMade just for them. It’s one of those moments where he is completely captured in his element, moments that they who behold secretly wish they would be lifetime experiences but at the same time still in touch with reality. Such is what Paul Labile Pogba is capable of, a joy to the world even including his haters on his day, so good that you would want to eat him - but also equally frustrating on other days. He had just scored his second goal of the night, Manchester United’s third as they beat Huddersfield Town  3-1 on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer premier league return to Old Trafford. After falling out of favor in Mourinho’s United in the first half of the season, the 25-year-old born to Guinean parents, would then bag another brace in the ensuing match against Bournemouth making it 4 goals in just 2 matches. The most appropriate word to coin the moment is PogBack! But still, no one knows how long it will last.

Cloud-nine in Turin

Paul Pogba (R) of Juventus in action against Juanfran of Club Atletico de Madrid during the UEFA Champions League group A match between Juventus and Club Atletico de Madrid at Juventus Arena on December 9, 2014 in Turin, Italy.

(Dec. 8, 2014 - Source: Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images Europe)

We still don’t know how long it will last but it’s no secret that no living football fan would give up the opportunity to see this beastly player at his best. Perhaps only them whose teams would have the difficult job of stopping him. Born in Langy-sur-Marne, Seine-et-Marne France to Guinean parents, Paul Pogba began playing football at the age of eight, together with his older brothers Florentin and Mathias who both represent the Guinean national team. He would then climb up the ranks through the academies of Roissy en Brie, Torcy and Le Havre before being captured by Manchester United in 2009. He stood out in Red Devils’ youth side and grew up to be a notable leader on and off the pitch, earning the attention of Sir Alex Ferguson who handed him three first team appearances before he left for the Serie A’s Juventus in search of some elusive game time. He felt ready for the big league but United was being extra careful and patient in involving him, so he left. Paul was 19 years-old. What followed after is no news to many, four complete years of PogBooms. He quickly became the Serie A’s most loved kid, funky hairstyles, funny celebrations and of course piledrivers that journeyed into the back of the net freely, at his own will and helping Juve to four consecutive Serie A titles and four other domestic cups. In 178 appearances across 4 years for the Old Lady, he banged 34 goals and assisted 28 others playing in the central midfield and deployed further up the pitch in a more attacking role in his latter years. These numbers actually do little justice in describing all he became adored for, nicknamed  II Polpo Paul (“Paul the Octopus”) for “his long legs that look like tentacles when he is running or tackling,” and “Pogboom” for his explosive style and boundless energy on the field of play. Strong in the air, remarkable upper and lower body strength, speed, bags of skills, flair, stamina and creativity all on in one player is unbelievable. Endowments that make a him a rare gem in the century. Manifesting all those week-in and out is entirely a different story.

The underlying fact is that in Turin, under the leading and supporting efforts of the likes of the experienced Claudio Marchisio, Sami Khedira and Andreas Pirlo in the middle of the park, he became one of the most unplayable midfielders in the world. The freedom to express himself, make mistakes with almost no team responsibility which rested on the more senior players, groomed him to become world’s most expensive football player at the time. Eventually returning to the Old Trafford for a then record ee of  €105 million. Ironically, the boy who left Manchester returned a man and the responsibilities of the club would soon be bestowed on him.

Paul ain’t the answer, he is the fun

Paul Pogba of France celebrates with the World Cup Trophy following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia.

(July 14, 2018 - Source: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images Europe)

Now, here is the meat of my argument. Pogba is less of “your professional footballer” working so hard on his “career,” he just likes playing football and gets paid big money while he is at it. He is not too far from the category of the Ronaldinhos or his boyhood hero, the Brazilian Ronaldo. Paul returned to Manchester at a time where the mighty United and Mourinho were desperate to return to legendary status after some sorry years with David Moyes and Louis Van Gaal. He was meant to be a main ingredient in the answer, which is so contrary to his nature. The pressures of the price tag and the hype around him, choked the player in an interesting way. Paul just remained himself in the midst of all the expectations. He joked, cut his hair, made some mistakes and worked on his game and development while at it. It just didn’t happen at the rate at which Manchester United and the world wanted him to. Just like at Juventus, he still maintained the 9 goal a season and served up 5 assists - but it was not enough, everyone wanted more. Still, not many got it, that Paul is not a numbers footballer, he is the fun. The guy who gives you goosebumps on the pitch more often than goals. Even at international level for France at the UEFA Euro 2016, because he costed so much, everyone expected something from him. He received a fair share of criticism for some of his performances at the tournament inviting the likes of English legend Gary Lineker to tweet asking if “he is the world’s most overrated player.” Two more matches against Iceland and Germany in the semi-final, Paul burst to redeem himself playing in his favored slightly attacking midfield role, afforded more freedom by Didier Deschamps who introduced N’golo Kante to focus more on the defensive side of the work. Even at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, the Kante-Pogba recipe became the winning formula for France’s success. Less of Kante helping defensively but mostly because the team’s responsibility didn’t entirely rest on him. He got breathing and creative space as the likes of Griezmann, Matuidi, Giroud and Lloris were handed just as much responsibility.

“Still, not many got it, that Paul is not a numbers footballer, he is the fun. The guy who gives you goosebumps on the pitch more often than goals.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

What really is the issue here?

Actually my argument can be summarised as follows. Paul Pogba is obviously a leader, having led the French U-20 side to a FIFA World Cup title in 2013. But it’s not because he is your “serious guy” pushing other teammates but simply because he is a hype man. He creates the atmosphere in the dressing room and jokes with almost everyone in the team. He is a growing footballer who can take shared responsibility and gets into his element when allowed space and freedom to just be himself. That’s how you get more from him. France and Juventus learnt to do just that and got their player. He is primarily the curator of experiences, with a “penchant to do the spectacular” before he is your numbers player. Of course goals and assists are important but Paul gives much more of what has become increasingly scarce in the modern digitized game.

FT 2019 Preview: Could a change of scenery be on the horizon for SuperMario?

“He normally switches clubs when boredom strikes, gets revived and dishes out some more headlines, both on and off the pitch. The football fraternity is not actually the same without him, his carefree attitude excites more than it pisses off. ”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

The Italian Stallion, Mario Balotelli Barwuah had a relatively quiet 2018 by his standards. The 28-year-old was not as productive on the pitch as a result of the instability of his relationship with OGC Nice’s new coach, Patrick Vieira.

Nice's Brazilian defender Dante (L) speaks to Nice's Italian forward Mario Balotelli (R) during the UEFA Europa League football match between OGC Nice vs SV Zulte Waregem on November 23, 2017 at the "Allianz Riviera Stadium" in Nice, southeastern France. / AFP PHOTO / VALERY HACHE

(Nov. 22, 2017 - Source: AFP)

Learning from his career patterns, one realises that the forward of Ghanaian descent easily gets bored and does not hold back from showing it when he does. He normally switches clubs when boredom strikes, gets revived and dishes out some more headlines, both on and off the pitch. The football fraternity is not actually the same without him, his carefree attitude excites more than it pisses off. After a rather barren spell at Liverpool, where he scored only once in 16 matches played over two years, Mario left for Nice and started firing again, with 33 goals and counting to his name in only 51 appearances. He re-introduced the form that saw become the favoured black sheep at Inter Milan and Manchester City, even winning the champions league at the former club.

Having managed only 9 appearances so far in the French Ligue 1 season, sandwiched by moments such as those where he trained alone or missed out on quite a number of other things, Vieira has given the forward the green light to decide on his future even handing him extra few days to make the decision. His contract runs out at the end of the season in May 2019 and Mario will have to choose between staying or getting a new challenge.

One thing is for sure, whether he stays or leaves, Mario will not be in the shadows for long. Like old times, he is bound to come back stronger in the year and give us a lot to ponder and cherish, both great and not so great stuff.

FT 2019 Preview: Will MLS teams have to adjust to a new era?

“As opposed to the previous state of affairs where the MLS was just a resting place for the super stars who were winding down their careers, its fast becoming a reliable source for budding talent. We are seeing young soccer players from communities which were never really known for the game, coming in and stealing the show.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

It came as a surprise particularly to outsiders as quite a number of the Major League Soccer groomed players began to make inroads to some of the perceived best leagues in the world, or at least being linked with such moves. Soccer in the United States is yet to be celebrated as much as in other territories and continents but the effort put by organisers, extra hours shifted in by players and the passion contributed by the most passionate of fans is starting to pay dividends.

Chris Richards #34 of Bayern Munich defends Riyad Mahrez #26 of Manchester City during the first half of the International Champions Cup at Hard Rock Stadium on July 28, 2018 in Miami, Florida.

(July 27, 2018 - Source: Michael Reaves/Getty Images North America)

As opposed to the previous state of affairs where the MLS was just a resting place for the super stars who were winding down their careers, its fast becoming a reliable source for budding talent. We are seeing young soccer players from communities which were never really known for the game, coming in and stealing the show. Individuals from the Caribbean Islands, Africans and the CONCACAF in general are fast using the MLS as a platform to grow and even possibly transiting to the “soccer capital of the world,” which in my opinion is Europe. We saw individuals such as Venezuela’s Josef Martinez who has apparently gotten his big break at a later age but doing so with much grace and elegance. The 25-year-old banged 35 MLS goals and registered 6 assists in only 39 appearances, that kind of record stands out anywhere around the world. He is just annoyingly prolific and capped the year by winning the MVP award, ahead of the heralded Zlatan Ibrahimovic or Wayne Rooney. Martinez is not the least of them, other players such as the 24-year-old playmaker, Paraguayan Miguel Almiron who was his partner in crime has since been linked to a host of premier league clubs including the Arsenal. Two 18-year-olds namely Canadian footballer, Alphonso Davies of Ghanaian origin and USA’s Chris Richards have already escaped the grasp of Vancouver Whitecaps and FC Dallas respectively, captured by German champions in Bayern Munich.

For the most part, the MLS had been used to receiving stars and now they seemingly have to quickly adjust to giving out. It will be interesting to see how that pans out. If you ask me, it’s a very much welcome development.

FT 2019 Preview: Competition heating up in the Spanish La Liga?

Wakaso Mubarak of Deportivo Alaves (R) being followed by Luka Modric of Real Madrid CF (L) during the La Liga match between Deportivo Alaves and Real Madrid CF at Estadio de Mendizorroza on October 6, 2018 in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.

(Oct. 5, 2018 - Source: Getty Images Europe)

It’s no secret that for quite some time, the Spanish top flight league, the La Liga has been labelled uncompetitive and predicable by many as a result of Barcelona and Real Madrid’s unmatched dominance, almost taking turns to win the title. All this has since changed since Diego Simeone began a revolution at Atletico Madrid even winning the crown in 2013/14 season.

This particular campaign promises to oversee yet another title race whose winner will not be easily determined by either picking Barcelona or Real Madrid. After 17 matches played, only five points separate the first three teams, the least among Europe’s top leagues such as the English Premier league, Bundesliga and Italian Serie A. Real Madrid are fourth, seven points off leaders Barcelona. Atletico Madrid and Sevilla occupy second and third place, very much in what appears to be a fiery and scintillating title race. Deportivo Alaves are strikingly lurking in fifth place, two points off Real Madrid and knocking on the champions league places. As you might have guessed, there are of course exciting Africans very much playing crucial-roles in the teams participating in this race, just like anywhere else.

One such player is Wague. At 19 years of age, Senegal’s Moussa Wague became the youngest ever African scorer in the history of the world cup back in June 2018. He then secured a summer move to Barcelona and is set to make his first team appearance in January 2019 as the league leaders aim to solve their defensive problems. Atletico Madrid are very much content with the services of Thomas Partey who continues to be a reliable option in the middle of the park, as are Alaves who have two Ghanaians in their ranks. The 25-year-old Mubarak Wakaso and 24-year-old Patrick Twumasi.

This may just be the most exciting title race in all of Europe this year.

“This particular campaign promises to oversee yet another title race whose winner will not be easily determined by either picking Barcelona or Real Madrid. After 17 matches played, only five points separate the first three teams, the least among Europe’s top leagues such as the English Premier league, Bundesliga and Italian Serie A. ”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

FT 2019 Preview: Dortmund's youth ending Bayern’s Bundesliga dominance

“Nineteen-year-old Dan-Axel Zagadou and twenty-year old Abdou Diallo, the French internationals of Ivorian and Senegalese descent respectively are also part and parcel of the Bundesliga leaders defence that is linked up to the attack with those who need no introduction. ”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

After winning six straight Bundesliga titles, from the 2012/13 season to the most recent one, Bayern Munich had almost rendered the German top flight, a predictably boring contest. But now, half way through the season as the league paused for the festive break, with Dortmund six points ahead of the champions, there is hope for a twist of fate.

Lucien Favre’s men have been outstanding, outscoring everyone and nothing short of spectacular as they lost only once in seventeen Bundesliga appearances. There is a reminisce of Jurgen Klopp’s Die Borussen who won back to back championships between 2010-12, also reaching the UEFA Champions League final. It comes as no surprise with strikingly similar features accompanying the current team, young blood all around the pitch and a few immaculate seniors providing the balance. More interestingly is one of their young full backs, Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi. Three assists in three champions league matches and three more in twelve Bundesliga appearances is not bad for the 20-year-old defender on loan from Real Madrid. In fact, transfer rumours suggest that the German club will go all the way to tempt Los Blancos to sanction a permanent move for the youngster. He really is one of the best young full backs in the world right now, has been important in Dortmund’s electric form and will continue to be as the new year unfolds. Nineteen-year-old Dan-Axel Zagadou and twenty-year old Abdou Diallo, the French internationals of Ivorian and Senegalese descent respectively are also part and parcel of the Bundesliga leaders defence that is linked up to the attack with those who need no introduction. The eighteen year-old Jadon Sancho and USMNT’s Christian Pulisic who is twenty and soon to depart for Chelsea. The team also had a “midas-touch” effect on former Barcelona forward, Paco Alcacer who misfired at Camp Nou but became a scoring freak at Signal Iduna, scoring a remarkable twelve goals in seven matches. Even the prodigal son Mario Gotze, returned and got rejoined with former pitch-partner, captain Marco Reus.

Make sure you have Dortmund on your watchlist for 2019, they are definitely paving the way for many other great things to come.

FT 2019 Preview: Africans to continue headlining Premier League title race

Riyad Mahrez of Manchester City celebrates after scoring his team's fifth goal during the Premier League match between Cardiff City and Manchester City at Cardiff City Stadium on September 22, 2018 in Cardiff, United Kingdom.

(Sept. 21, 2018 - Source: Stu Forster/Getty Images Europe)

Stranger things and customarily premier league things have happened and will continue to happen as one of the world’s most followed club football league comes to a close in May 2019. Manchester United have recently hit new form under the guidance of the baby faced assassin Ole Gunnar Soljaskaer, Pep Guardiola’s “immaculate” City slipped up in the festive period, succumbing to three league defeats in four matches and Unai Emery’s Arsenal served a horror defensive show at Anfield as Liverpool ran out 5-1 winners on the day.

Transfers will come this January, the out of favor troopers will leave for greener pastures, some managers may or may not get the sack and other dedicated sides will have to face the chop of relegation. In all the anticipated uncertainties, there is an anticipated certainty. With Aubameyang, Salah and Kane going at each other, at the top of the scoring charts in December, the first two setting a precedence for the peaking of Africans in the league – more is coming. It’s no secret that Senegal’s Mane and Egypt’s Salah had Liverpool one foot in the title race long before it started. Mahrez could still very much be Man City’s secret weapon as they chase the Reds with the Algerian forward yet to reach top gear under Guardiola and we know what he can do when he does, as was the case with the 2015/16 premier league title winning Leicester City.

It’s not only those who steer their teams to much needed goals or keep the goal from assailants such Aubameyang who matter in the title race; there are others who get points off points contenders in a rare exciting fashion. Ghana’s Jeffrey Schlupp netted an important goal as Crystal Palace handed City their first home defeat of the campaign and quite recently, Adama Traore was unplayable as Wolves came from behind to beat Tottenham 3-1 at Wembley, momentarily putting them out of contention.

This and more will continue in 2019, and we will be there to cover the African stars at the centre of the thrills and spills in the English Premier League.

“ In all the anticipated uncertainties, there is an anticipated certainty. With Aubameyang, Salah and Kane going at each other, at the top of the scoring charts in December, the first two setting a precedence for the peaking of Africans in the league – more is coming.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

FT 2019 Preview: African aces to continue populating the Italian Serie A

“The 20-year-old defines the word potential. He has admirable upper body strength, ruthless in front of goal and described as one that almost glides on the turf by those who cannot take their eyes off him.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

Since the days of Cameroonian legend, Samuel Eto’o in the colors of Inter Millan, the Italian Serie A has been shy of major African footballing icons shaking the world. This may not be the case any longer. The year 2018 witnessed a lot of booming and blossoming young footballers that are bound to grow and obviously usher in a fresh area of rapid rise of such players in the league.

Frank Kessie (R) of AC Milan is challenged by Kwadwo Asamoah of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on October 21, 2018 in Milan, Italy.

(Oct. 20, 2018 - Source: Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images Europe)

AC Millan’s Franck Kessie is one such player whom many may classify as a possible re-incarnation of Ghanaian Kwadwo Asamoah when he first appeared in Juventus’ black and white. Just like the younger Kwadwo, 22-year-old Kessie is a solid defensive midfielder who has earned Genaro Gattuso’s trust, starting all of Milan’s 18 matches in the league so far. We are only going to see more of such a promising player gifted with astute leadership qualities evident in things even as small as being handed the penalty taking duties for the team by Gattusso at such a tender age. In that same bracket, is 23-year-old Keita Balde featuring for the other Milan side on loan from Monaco. The Senegalese started the season slowly, sitting out matches but as the year came to close, he started giving a glimpse of what everyone has always seen in him from the get go. Balde has since scored 4 times and assisted 2 others in only 7 starts for Inter Milan. He is one that you can’t help but notice in the unfolding year as he steals the headlines. If you have never heard of the Gambian wonderkid, Musa Barrow who stole the headlines after rivalling age-mate Kylian Mbappe’s scoring record back in September, you shall, soon enough. The 20-year-old defines the word potential. He has admirable upper body strength, ruthless in front of goal and described as one that almost glides on the turf by those who cannot take their eyes off him. He might be going through a major goal drought since netting 4 times and assisting 2 others early in the season, but an individual of his ability cannot be robbed of stardom, this will serve as just an important learning curve. With Kessie having climbed up the ranks through Atalanta, there is no reason to suggest why Barrow will not do the same if not better it. His 14 goals in 19 appearances for Atalanta’s youth is one of the pieces of evidence why he deserves the faith that’s been put in him so far.

The above three and many others will likely continue claiming a stake among the Italian Serie A’s elite just as many other African stars have done in the premier league, celebrating the likes of Kwadwo, Koulibaly and Medhi Benatia who have come, saw and conquered the league.

FT 2019 Preview: AFCON19 is on the way!

“Think about it for a second, all those young and old mesmerisers who continue to dominate the game on a global scale from the La Liga, Bundesliga, Premier League, Chinese Super League, ABSA etc. will come home to Africa and go at each other for the continent’s biggest prize.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

Even though the host nation is yet to be confirmed this January after Cameroon was stripped of that right late in 2018 courtesy of infrastructure readiness and security concerns, a few other things are pretty certain. This will be the first time for the Africa Cup of Nations finals to feature 24 finalists, with more faces and flags bearing more hearts and an equal prospect of heartbreaks given the winner will always be one. Mean as it sounds, this is actually what makes a tournament go off the charts. The final 2019 qualification spots are yet to be filled with a heated final match day of the qualifiers coming to our screens from the 22nd to 26th of March 2019. The finals will run from the 7th of June up to the 30th, actually colliding with the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup in France. Spectators of the game, have never been more captivated.

Morocco's forward Aziz Bouhaddouz (2nd-L) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal during the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations group C football match between Morocco and Togo in Oyem on January 20, 2017. / AFP / ISSOUF SANOGO

(Jan. 19, 2017 - Source: AFP)

Your Sadio Mane, Mo Salah and Naby Keita who are inspiring Liverpool’s premier league title charge will be there and perhaps as English champions by then. Heavyweights such as Ivory Coast, Morocco, Nigeria and defending champions Cameroon have already confirmed their place bringing with them global stars such as Dutch Eredivisie’s Hakim Ziyech, Wilfried Zaha, Alexander Iwobi and PSG’s Eric-Maxim Choupo Moting. Homebred stars will also be in the hunt with Uganda’s Cranes being an instance of a squad adorned with such players, captained by Mamelodi Sundowns’ Denis Onyango who has the chance to enter the finals without conceding a single goal. Exciting debutants such as Madagascar are bound to have say. Think about it for a second, all those young and old mesmerisers who continue to dominate the game on a global scale from the La Liga, Bundesliga, Premier League, Chinese Super League, ABSA etc. will come home to Africa and go at each other for the continent’s biggest prize. This time, with no club commitments at the back of their minds given most domestic leagues would have ended. There will be nothing but fireworks.

FirstTouch will be there and we will share the entire experience with you all.

FT 2019 Preview: Don't even think about missing out on the FIFA Women’s World Cup

“Of major interest to us, are Africa’s three representatives. Nigeria, Cameroon and South Africa who enter the tourney as the three lowest ranked teams of the twenty-four finalists but after a “bloody” 2018 AWCON from whence they secured their qualification spots, major upsets are inevitable.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

The wheels just keep on rolling as far as women’s football is concerned, and 2019 will be no different. After an exhilarating 2018 in the women’s game on the African continent, the best there is on the planet are scheduled to have a showdown in France from the 7th of June to the 7th of the ensuing month. The men set a wonderful precedence by tearing each other apart in Russia this just ended year and the women cannot be in a better position to follow suit or open new territories and levels.

Of major interest to us, are Africa’s three representatives. Nigeria, Cameroon and South Africa who enter the tourney as the three lowest ranked teams of the twenty-four finalists but after a “bloody” 2018 AWCON from whence they secured their qualification spots, major upsets are inevitable. The tournament will take place across nine cities with the opening match to be played at Parc des Princes, Mbappe and Neymar’s home ground. Lyon’s home stadium will host the final match where the likes of the defending champions in USA, Germany and the hosts are considered to be favorites. Africa will also be thoroughly represented among the match officials, with three referees from Zambia, Rwanda and Ethiopia making an appearance. Four other African assistant referees will also be in France, even representatives from a country as small as Mauritius. Quite notably, are the English officials who will also miss the 2019 June-July world cup after failing to land a spot at the 2018 World cup in Russia. Only one assistant English referee made the cut this time around. Quite a lot is at stake, with UEFA using the tournament to select three representatives for the 2020 Summer Olympics in Japan. Debutants namely, Scotland, South Africa, Jamaica and Chile will have their nations on song for the first time ever.

Here at FirstTouch, we will soon release a full special preview assessing the finalists’ chances. For the meantime, here are the six groups from which the top two and the four best third placed teams will proceed to the round of 16.

Group A

Lara Dickenmann #11 of Switzerland and Claudine Meffometou Tcheno #12 of Cameroon battle for the ball during the FIFA Women's World Cup Canada Group C match between Switzerland and Cameroon at Commonwealth Stadium on June 16, 2015 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

(June 15, 2015 - Source: Todd Korol/Getty Images North America)

France, South Korea, Norway, Nigeria

Group B

Germany, China, Spain, South Africa

Group C

Australia, Italy, Brazil, Jamaica

Group D

England, Scotland, Argentina, Japan

Group E

Canada, Cameroon, New Zealand, Netherlands

Group F

United States, Thailand, Chile, Sweden

Just as a side note, the fable that women’s football in Africa or around the world being not the real deal, is actually yesterday’s news!

10 January Transfers Everyone Wants To See: #1 Nicolas Pepe

No matter how good some players are, football players or otherwise – they kind of need a bigger turf or neighbourhood to show that they belong, to prove that they have the “it” factor. Such is the story of some of the most exciting professional footballers in the game today, they can only become as big as the club they play for and we have a few names that many would want to see move to other pastures. Some have been rumoured away from their clubs and some haven’t but sooner rather than later, transfers are inevitable. Here is the first one on our list.

Nicolas Pepe of the Ivory Coast in action during the International Friendly match between the Netherlands and Ivory Coast held at De Kuip or Stadion Feijenoord on June 4, 2017 in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

(June 3, 2017 - Source: Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images Europe)

One Ivorian, by the name Nicolas Pepe recently won hearts in the French Ligue 1 and could be slowly owning them as well. The 23-year-old Lille forward got global acclamation after winning the September French Ligue 1 player of the month ahead of the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Neymar. Just like the above, Pepe is usually deployed as a winger and more often than not cuts inside to grab some precious goals. He is currently French Ligue 1 and Lille’s top scorer so far in the season with 12 goals and 5 assists to his name in only 18 matches and can bang all sorts of goals. From the penalty spot, outside the box, long range shorts you name it. Pepe’s emergence has seen Lille gunning for an unlikely Champions League group stage spot as they sit second on the league standings, a few points off the runaway leaders in PSG.  He has become becoming “mister reliable”, with his latest showing coming over the weekend after scoring Lille’s winner against Nimes that moved them to up to second on the standings. His combination with other players of African descent such as Jonathan Bamba, has made the young Lille team a rightfully dreaded opponent.

With Arsenal and a host of other top European clubs particularly in the premier league rumoured to be interested in his services, he is becoming increasingly harder to keep at Lille.

Let’s continue the conversation. Where would you want to see the Ivorian play?

10 January Transfers Everyone Wants To See: #2 Houssem Aouar

No matter how good some players are, football players or otherwise – they kind of need a bigger turf or neighbourhood to show that they belong, to prove that they have the “it” factor. Such is the story of some of the most exciting professional footballers in the game today, they can only become as big as the club they play for and we have a few names that many would want to see move to other pastures. Some have been rumoured away from their clubs and some haven’t but sooner rather than later, transfers are inevitable. Coming in on number 2 on our list is another Ligue 1 player.

Houssem Aouar of Lyon is challenged by Ilkay Gundogan of Manchester City 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)

Do you remember the midfield maestro, Barcelona’s Xavi. The not so tall Spaniard who could mark anyone out of possession no matter their shape or size but mostly known for literally controlling the midfield by spraying all sorts of passes onto his teammates. Or are you perhaps excited with one of Barcelona’s most recent acquisitions in Arthur Mello, one tipped to be the long awaited replacement to Xavi. There is another copy of the two, short and also unique in his own playing style but just as dangerous. Olympique Lyonnais’ 20 year-old Aouar is simply remarkable. His maturity and simplicity with the ball has made him one of the hottest midfield prospects. Against the likes of Fernandinho or David Silva, Aouar came out on top in all of Lyon-Manchester meetings in this year’s UEFA champions league group stage. He can get out of any situation regardless of the number of opponents surrounding him and has been equally “guilty” of picking out the likes of Memphis Depay, Ivorian Maxwell Cornet or Burkinabe international Betrand Traore in unimaginable positions.

A young midfield anchor of Algerian descent, showing signs of maturity, incredible ability but still with a lot of growing to do, will he stay or will a new club be so blessed to have him?

10 January Transfers Everyone Wants To See: #3 Tanguy Ndombele

No matter how good some players are, football players or otherwise – they kind of need a bigger turf or neighbourhood to show that they belong, to prove that they have the “it” factor. Such is the story of some of the most exciting professional footballers in the game today, they can only become as big as the club they play for and we have a few names that many would want to see move to other pastures. Some have been rumoured away from their clubs and some haven’t but sooner rather than later, transfers are inevitable. Are you ready for the third name on the list?

Raheem Sterling of Manchester City shoots while under pressure from Tanguy NDombele Alvaro of Lyon 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: Julian Finney/Getty Images Europe)

He reminds Lyon President, Jean-Michel Aulas, of Ghanaian legend, Michael Essien and has already debuted for the world champions in their competitive midfield setup at only 21-years of age. As we speak, the name Ndombele is almost synonymous to demand. The French international born of Congolese parents is part and parcel of the youthful Lyon team that has been punching way above their weight quite recently. With a super intelligent footballing brain and more than capable legs, Ndombele can and has played almost all over the pitch but remains mostly recognised for being an outstanding box to box midfielder. He first began his senior football career at Amiens, whom he helped secure promotion into the Ligue 1 before being permanently captured by Lyon after a successful loan spell in the 2017/18 season. Actually, it’s been only two years since debuting for Amiens’ first team and he has already been drawn to comparison with the likes of Kante, attracting big boys such as Barcelona, Manchester City, PSG and Chelsea in the process. No wonder he has been in the news daily, with a transfer fee in the region of 80 million euros accompanying all his headlines.

A former scout at French Ligue 1 side Guingamp, who somehow failed to spot the midfield sensation, Phillippe Lemaire didn’t do a bad job in summarising his style of play:

“He stinks of football, He is strong and precise. He feels the game. He is capable of creating lightning, to give rhythm to the game, to counterattack but also to press and regain possession.”

— Phillippe Lemaire, Former Guingamp Scout

A lot of people should be excited of the prospect of Ndombele clashing with the likes of Sergio Busquets and Rakitic in Lyon’s round of 16 champions league fixture against Barcelona in February next year. But, will he still be in the French side’s colors by then?

South African ABSA Premiership: The race for the ABSA trophy is heating up

We once again call up the bravest to pick the 2018/19 ABSA Premiership champion. Unlike the premier league where it’s almost certain that the winner will be between Manchester or Liverpool, the Italian Serie A or the French Ligue 1 where Juventus and Paris St Germain have run away with it – the South African top flight has a different proposition.

Orlando Pirates captain Lucky Lekgwathi holds aloft the premiership trophy after winning the Absa Premiership Final match between Orlando Pirates and the Golden Arrows at Orlando Stadium on May 21, 2011 in Soweto, South Africa.

(May 20, 2011 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

Of course they are title favorites, the likes of whom have familiar names such as the Pirates from Orlando, the Brazilians of Tshwane or the Clever Boys also known as the Students professionally recognised as Bidvest Wits. Orlando Pirates are tied at the top with Wits on 27 points though having played one more game. The crest of the wave they began riding on since the appointment of Coach Micho is seemingly not going away, back among the title conversations unlike their neighbors, Kaizer Chiefs who have had to appoint yet another gaffer.

Sundowns have had to endure a bitter sweet season, boasting of an unbeaten run sandwiched with countable draws that have left them lying 4th, five points off Bidvest Wits but with two fewer games played. As is the culture of the ABSA Premiership, underdogs really do thrive. A few days after Baroka edged high flying Pirates in the Telkom knockout final to win their first major honors in the club’s history, Polokwane City have crept unawares into the top three, just five points off log leaders.

Broadly, the first seven teams on the standings are separated by just six points. Khompela’s Bloemfontein Celtic is also in the mix, SuperSport United affectionately known as Matsatsantsha and Kaizer Chiefs wrapping up the seven. Even league goals have become increasingly harder to mine for the forwards with the top scoring forward at five goals in 15 matches.

The heat is evidently on and more than ever, competitiveness is reaching an all-time high in South Africa. That is why at FirstTouch, we feel that the South African league redefines the word competition.