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.

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.

FT SideLine: The timeless foundation behind the DNA of a league champion

Aleksandar Mitrovic of Fulham battles for possession with Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Fulham FC at Anfield on November 11, 2018 in Liverpool, United Kingdom.

(Nov. 10, 2018 - Source: Alex Livesey/Getty Images Europe)

Contrary to popular belief, having an edgy and slick attacking frontline is not the main ingredient for any club seeking domestic league dominance. Of course it’s important but today’s trends reveal something to else to be of greater importance.

Looking at most of the table topping teams in all of the leagues we feature here at FirstTouch, one cannot afford to ignore the defensive discipline of these sides. For starters, the Clever Boys of Bidvest Wits are mounting an unlikely title charge in the South African ABSA Premiership without having any of the league’s most prolific forwards in their ranks. It’s only because they have let only nine goals, the second best defensive record in the league after Mamelodi Sundowns who are five points off Wits having played two fewer games. Pirates are not doing bad themselves, second on the table with a devastating attack that combines the likes of Vincent Pule and Justin Shonga but their defensive record will likely be the Achilles heel that will find them wanting when champions are called to the stage. Even one of the league’s top scoring forwards who is arguably Southern Africa’s most important player in Khama Billiat, he is delivering the goods but Kaizer Chiefs are far from the top because they just can’t protect their goal as much as they would love to.

Leroy Sane of Manchester City celebrates scoring his sides first goal with Gabriel Jesus during the UEFA Champions League Group F match between Manchester City and TSG 1899 Hoffenheim at Etihad Stadium on December 12, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom.

(Dec. 11, 2018 - Source: Gareth Copley/Getty Images Europe)

What about in Europe? Liverpool are now going toe to toe with a dominant Manchester City that was a class above the rest last season, winning the premier league with a record points, bag full of goals and the best defensive record. Its only because Jurgen Klopp and the Merseyside club acquired two more goal minders, namely the world’s second most expensive goalkeeper in Alisson Rameses Becker and the world’s most expensive defender in Virgil Van Dijk. Here is a number for you, in their 3-1 win over Manchester United over the weekend, Liverpool conceded only the second goal of the season at home. Should I go on mentioning the likes of Juventus who have made the Serie A title race not so interesting, 8 points ahead of second placed Napoli, only 16 games into the season. They did sign the “goal scoring machine” in Cristiano Ronaldo, but their numerous 1-0 narrow wins are not as a result of the Portuguese’s cunningness but the impenetrability of the wall guarded by the likes of Bonucci, Chiellini and Morocco’s Mehdi Benatia. Adding some more perspective, statistics tell us that Arsenal is the second best attacking Premier League side after City, having scored more goals than even Liverpool or Tottenham but their defensive ills have them lying fifth on the table.

What shall we say then, getting one of the most wanted defenders such as Senegal’s Kalidou Koulibaly is the free and ultimate wisdom available for any ambitious team out there.   

“They did sign the “goal scoring machine” in Cristiano Ronaldo, but their numerous 1-0 narrow wins are not as a result of the Portuguese’s cunningness but the impenetrability of the wall guarded by the likes of Bonucci, Chiellini and Morocco’s Mehdi Benatia.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

10 January Transfers Everyone Wants To See: #4 Miguel Almiron

Miguel Almiron #10 of Atlanta United FC controls the ball against the Minnesota United FC during the second half of the match on March 12, 2017 at TCF Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Atlanta defeated Minnesota 6-1.

(March 11, 2017 - Source: Hannah Foslien/Getty Images North America)

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. You wouldn’t have guessed the fourth person on our list.

To many, he may come as a shocker but to those fortunate enough to be first movers in the field of recognising talent, they will be familiar with the name Miguel Almiron. The 25-year-old Paraguayan enjoyed something a little bit beyond what is normally called a breakout year in 2018. The Atlanta FC playmaker became “the playmaker of the American Major League Soccer,” scoring 13 times and serving up 11 assists in 37 MLS appearances. He was more than instrumental in Atlanta’s 2018 MLS cup triumph, spotted more often than not, combining with the tournament’s MVP Josef Martinez, in terrorising opponents. The usual thing that follows after such greatness, chose not to shy away, comparisons and rumours flew in left, right and centre. One of the most significant piece of rumours was that of reported inquiry by the Arsenal on the player as a possible replacement for one of the world’s best playmakers, Mesut Ozil. In the eyes of many, he would be a more suitable number 10 to Unai Emery who is leading a revolution at the North London club because of his intensity which happens to be a critical component of Unai’s pressing style of play. What seems more becoming is still a move to the English Premier League but in the colors Newcastle. A big money move is reportedly being lined up as Atlanta President has promised not to let him go for “chump change.”

Miggy, as they call him, is surely on the verge of adding to the redefinition MLS’s position amongst the global community of football leagues as a capable source of youth talent after Alphonso Davies’ move to Bayern Munich.

“One of the most significant piece of rumours was that of reported inquiry by the Arsenal on the player as a possible replacement for one of the world’s best playmakers, Mesut Ozil.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

10 January Transfers Everyone Wants To See: #5 Calum Hudson-Odoi

Callum Hudson-Odoi of Chelsea celebrates his second goal, Chelsea's fourth, with team mates during the FA Youth Cup Final second leg between Chelsea and Arsenal at Emirates Stadium on April 30, 2018 in London, England.

(April 29, 2018 - Source: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images Europe)

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. Chelsea have some work to do holding onto the fifth player on our list.

Son of former Hearts of Oak (a Ghanaian Premier League side) midfielder, Bismark Odoi, 18 year-old Calum Hudson Odoi has already become a subject of major speculation. After helping Chelsea’s Academy team to a quadruple in the 2017/18 season, he majorly introduced himself to the world in the Blues’ pre-season games, particularly against Arsenal. Odoi constantly asked rocket-science like questions of Hector Bellerin on the right flank, skipping past him with lightning pace after getting little answers from the Spanish right-back. It was only pre-season but he would have a lasting impact on a host of Europe’s big boys. With 18 months left on his contract and Chelsea still to pen him to a new deal which has become increasingly harder given the player has hardly gotten game time under Maurizio Sarri, Bayern Munich and Dortmund are reportedly monitoring the teenager, on the clock. The Bundesliga champions are eager to strengthen their attack with more youthful players given the imminent departure of long-time servants in Robben and Ribbery while Dortmund, who got a lot from their last ‘heist’ of former Manchester City’s Jadon Sancho and would want to continue in that direction. The 2017 World Cup winner with England-U17 is still eligible to play for Ghana and should you want to get more insight on the kind of player he is, just think of the word electric. He defines it more than it defines him.

Let’s hope Chelsea’s predatory and not very helpful youth system of young players won’t get in his way, as it is for one Ghanaian, Baba Rahman.

“After helping Chelsea’s Academy team to a quadruple in the 2017/18 season, he majorly introduced himself to the world in the Blues’ pre-season games, particularly against Arsenal. Odoi constantly asked rocket-science like questions of Hector Bellerin on the right flank, skipping past him with lightning pace after getting little answers from the Spanish right-back.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

10 January Transfers Everyone Wants To See: #6 Mario Lemina

Mario Lemina of Southampton during the Premier League match between Everton FC and Southampton FC at Goodison Park on August 18, 2018 in Liverpool, United Kingdom.

(Aug. 17, 2018 - Source: Alex Livesey/Getty Images Europe)

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. The sixth one is actually my personal favourite.

We have repeatedly featured Gabonese international Mario Lemina, here on FirstTouch, more so on his unexploited potential at the Saints. The 25-year-old central midfielder joined EPL side, Southampton for what was actually a club record fee of £15.4 million in the summer of 2017 from Italian Serie A giants, Juventus. Lemina is a huge physical presence in the Southampton midfield, astute in his dealings, technically gifted and possessing a rare ability to slow down or increase the tempo of the game at will. He really can be a real conductor of the midfield orchestra but has quite recently been reduced to only breaking up attacks as Southampton is continually in the fight to stay alive and relevant in the Premier League. Mario is most certainly becoming a hidden gem, lacking the exposure to shine or the specialist to cut it to perfection as a result of the Saints’ challenges. His talent is basically suffocating and a move away could be the needed right of way, one that am overly excited about. PSG’s has already shown interest in getting the Gabonese to Parc de Princes as a possible replacement to the departing Adrien Rabiot. A reported £30 million bid is being lined up and you one cannot possibly belittle the rumour given the Parisians shockingly captured another African star, Eric Maxim Choupo Moting from relegated Stoke City in the summer. Should the move materialise, a new lease of life to Lemina could be one that puts him in a position of similar dominance to his compatriot, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, but in a slightly different position.

“Mario is most certainly becoming a hidden gem, lacking the exposure to shine or the specialist to cut it to perfection as a result of the Saints’ challenges. His talent is basically suffocating and a move away could be the needed right of way, one that am overly excited about.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

10 January Transfers Everyone Wants To See: #7 Kalidou Koulibaly

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. Number seven is someone who needs no introduction.

Napoli and Senegalese centre-back has been linked with a move away from Naples for quite some time now. It’s almost cliché and somehow not far from boring to hear his name amongst the transfer rumours, week in and out. He is really that good to be honest, everyone wants him and all are eager to see how he will shape up in a bigger club. Liverpool’s big money acquisition of Virgil Van Dijk is paying dividends to the Merseyside club who conceded just 7 goals in 18 premier league matches, the least in the league, consequently leading to a fireproof title charge. Similarly, Koulibaly is a rare find that falls in the bracket of the Dutch if not better and evidence from Merseyside have reiterated that timeless truth, “strikers win games, but defenders win titles.” Manchester United reportedly had their £90 million bid rejected, which would have become the world record transfer for a defender and the all-time African transfer record and Chelsea has endured the same fate in their pursuit of the 27-year-old. He is right there at the top with the best when it comes to minding the goal, everyone knows it and would give anything to get him who can turn any top side into capable title contenders.

Kalidou has a midfielder attitude on the ball, a firefighter mentality when under attack by an opponent and never shies away from an opportunity to put any opponent under siege –almost unreal but undisputedly endowed in many ways than one. I am reminded of one scenario during Napoli and PSG’s 1-1 stalemate in the champions league, Neymar sent Mbappe through with a delicious ball, Koulibaly tracked down the pacey forward and jumped in front of him, hooking the ball out of his way in the process. It was the kind of tackle that, if one is a fraction of a second late, they may win themselves a red card, a perfectly timed intervention that only players like Kalidou can make.

Paulo Dybala of Juventus battles for the ball with Kalidou Koulibaly of SSC Napoli during the Srie A match between Juventus and SSC Napoli at Allianz Stadium on September 29, 2018 in Turin, Italy.

(Sept. 28, 2018 - Source: gabriele maltinti/Getty Images Europe)

“Kalidou has a midfielder attitude on the ball, a firefighter mentality when under attack by an opponent and never shies away from an opportunity to put any opponent under siege –almost unreal but undisputedly endowed in many ways than one.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

FT's 10 Best Moments of 2018: #1 The global reign of the Egyptian King

“He truly became the Egyptian King; graffiti of his face all across the North African country, a ‘brawl’ over image rights for his face, his shooting boots immortalized at a museum in Britain, spoiled ballot papers in Egypt’s presidential election with many voting “Mo Salah” and many other intriguing events which could take forever to lay down. ”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

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? Here is number 1.

The world runs at a pace so fast that some truly extraordinary occurrences seem like a lifetime and then a moment at the same time. It’s only been a year since the name Mohamed Salah got global acclamation but seems like forever. The 26 year-old Egyptian couldn’t stop making the headlines. After returning to the Premier League in the summer of 2017, Mo Salah used the early half of 2018 to silence all doubters and remarkably regained Africa’s place among the world’s best footballers. With odds almost 1000/1 to achieve everything he did, he did it anyway.

Egypt fans hold a poster of Mohamed Salah prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group A match between Egypt and Uruguay at Ekaterinburg Arena on June 15, 2018 in Yekaterinburg, Russia.

(June 14, 2018 - Source: Clive Rose/Getty Images Europe)

Salah sent tongues wagging as he ran down the Liverpool wing all the way to a Players’ Player of the Season, the Football Writers’ Association Player of the Season, and a Premier League’s Golden Boot award with a record 32 goals in 36 league starts. As if that was not enough, he added a couple more goals in the UEFA Champions League eventually leading the Merseyside club to a UCL final in as many years. Even the BBC African Player Of The Year and the CAF African Player of The Year awards had the Egyptian’s name inscribed on them. Did I mention, the FIFA Puskas Award of the Best goal scored in 2018 or being the first runners up to the FIFA Best World’s Player Of The Year eventually won by Croatia’s Luka Modric ahead of the likes of Messi or Ronaldo. It was quite delightful to see an African’s name on the FIFA Best Awards, which had been robbed of a mention since the days of Liberian President, George Weah. Perhaps the most priceless of Mo Salah’s achievements to the Egyptians, was a historic 2018 FIFA World Cup appearance in as many years.

He truly reached Egyptian King status; graffiti of his face all across the North African country, a ‘brawl’ over image rights for his face, his shooting boots immortalized at a museum in Britain, spoiled ballot papers in Egypt’s presidential election with many voting “Mo Salah” amongst other intriguing events in 2018.

Lest we forget, 2018 was truly a year to honor and celebrate one Mohamed who goes by the last name, Salah.

FT's 10 Best Moments of 2018: #2 Senegalese fans dripping sauce

Senegal fans enjoy the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group H match between Japan and Senegal at Ekaterinburg Arena on June 24, 2018 in Yekaterinburg, Russia.

(June 23, 2018 - Source: Clive Rose/Getty Images Europe)

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? Here is number 2?

The 2018 FIFA World cup was arguably the most anticipated events of 2018 at the commencement of the year and truly lived up to the hype. Of course it was a day off for Africa as all of its five representatives failed to reached the knock out stages of the competition but was not without positives to pick up moving forward as a footballing generation of the continent.

One such positive was an off-field event that elevated the fans of the Lions of Terranga. It’s no secret that in many places around the world, Africa is seen as a dirty, war torn and starved place, and its people rowdy and uncultured. Even narratives such as, “Senegal the physical team” were prevalent towards the Russia tournament, not because of the admiration of their physical prowess but an undertone suggesting them not being so good tactically. The Senegalese people present at the world cup took the time to be just themselves by cleaning up after each of their three group matches against Poland, Japan and even after the most heart-breaking one against Colombia, when their side’s elimination was confirmed. Confirmed by reason of not having less points or goals but being on the receiving end of the most number of yellow cards in the group. No explanation needed here to describe the kind of people they are and the kind of African people as a whole.

Of course it was not only the Senegalese fans, but their partnership with the Japanese of keeping Russia clean gained them global recognition and was awarded with a nomination under the FIFA Best Fan Of The Year Award category.

“Senegalese people present at the world cup took the time to be just themselves by cleaning up after each of their three group matches against Poland, Japan and even after the most heart-breaking one against Colombia...”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

10 January Transfers Everyone Wants To See: #8 Timothy Weah

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. Now, let’s talk about the son of a legend.

Timothy Weah of the United States is challenged by Trent Alexander-Arnold of England during the International Friendly match between England and United States at Wembley Stadium on November 15, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Nov. 14, 2018 - Source: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Europe)

Son of Liberia’s president and the 1995 Balon d’Or winner, Timothy Weah, has had to frequently watch his PSG teammates from the sidelines despite his huge talent. The 18-year-old looked like the most favoured of the youth graduates by Thomas Tuchel at Parc de Princes, getting significant chances to shine in pre-season. With the highest scoring average of 72.5 minutes per goal ahead of all of the Parisians’ forwards that include Neymar and Mbappe, one would think he deserves a mention on Tuchel’s team sheets. The arrival of Cameroonian international, Eric Maxim Choupo Moting who has netted only once in 12 outings further reduced the chances of the teenager getting some needed game time. The American international and his mother Clar Weah, who taught him the game and still oversees his development both agree that “he is still tender” and can afford to be more patient in waiting on his chance. However, his fans can hardly wait, once mesmerized by his pace, intricate dribbles and swagger off the pitch, being a rapper in his own right, they want to see more. He is very much an integral part of the new generation USMNT comprising of the likes of Dortmund’s exciting Christian Pulisic and has many Americans on their toes.

The positive news is that the likes of Amiens, Strasbourg, Bayer Leverkusen, Sassaulo are among many others who have expressed interest in loaning his services. The wait may soon be over for the Weah fans.

“His fans can hardly wait, once mesmerized by his pace, intricate dribbles and swagger off the pitch, being a rapper in his own right, they want to see more.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

10 January Transfers Everyone Wants To See: #9 Mehdi Benatia

Faycal Fajr (L) of Morocco is consoled by Mehdi Benatia following his sides defeat, meaning his team are knocked out of the World Cup after the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group B match between Portugal and Morocco at Luzhniki Stadium on June 20, 2018 in Moscow, Russia.

(June 19, 2018 - Source: Michael Steele/Getty Images Europe

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. This next one, is all about class.

Morocco national team captain Mehdi Benatia, is nearing the end of an illustrious career. Some of the notable contributions of the 31-year-old came during his time at Bayern Munich, Roma and most recently at the Old Lady, Juventus. During the 2018 FIFA World Cup, he showed that he still got it as he expertly marshalled the Lions of the Atlas’ defence and rallied the whole team, though deprived of a fairy tale ending to the campaign. Above his class and ability on the ball, Mehdi’s most sought after attribute right now is his experience. Having fallen out of favour in Turin, with Chiellini and Bonucci preferred for the central defensive roles, Mehdi has had to warm the bench. This has led to many Benatia fans’ desperation to see the veteran move on hoping he would have one famous last straw in the colors of another fancy club. And perhaps even win another trophy in the process.

Big clubs eager to effectively sort out their defensive issues for immediate results have the proven centre-back on high alert. The likes of Manchester United and Arsenal are not sleeping on him and a move may be imminent. Considering Koulibaly whom we have also featured in this series, African defensive stars might just be the get out of jail card for many top clubs.

Christmas Cheer for Africans in the Premier League

Alexandre Lacazette of Arsenal (9) celebrates with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as he scores his team's third goal during the Premier League match between Cardiff City and Arsenal FC at Cardiff City Stadium on September 2, 2018 in Cardiff, United Kingdom.

(Sept. 1, 2018 - Source: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images Europe)

Matchday 18 of the English Premier League, the final round of matches before Christmas, was headlined by African stars – a befitting festive gift for the continent and the world. We captured a few of the moments we wouldn’t want anyone to miss.

Double Christmas gift from Santa Aubameyang

Arsenal’s inform striker, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang added to his tally by netting a brace that handed the Gunners a 3-1 win over Burnely at the Emirates. He opened the scoring with a sliced out foot shot as the end of a flowing Arsenal move, engineered by Mesut Ozil. The Gabonese international then doubled the advantage in the second period, blasting the net from the near post after his strike partner, Alexandre Lacazette had ushered the ball into his path. Auba is still top of the premier league scoring charts on 12 strikes followed by Mo Salah and Harry Kane who are both on 11.

One season wonder?

Mohamed Salah of Liverpool celebrates after scoring his team's third 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)

Magical Mohamed Salah remains the talisman for top of the table Liverpool with his latest showing being a sublime performance at Wolves. The Egyptian drew first blood by beating Rui Patricio with the deftness of touch struck with his shoelaces as he finished Fabinho’s cross which was something a little over half a chance. He then setup Virgil Van Dijk for his first premier league goal for Liverpool with perfectly timed cross into the box. The matched ended 2-0 to the Reds and the only questions asked after the game were of those who had labelled the 26-year-old a one season wonder. Apparently, they are nowhere to be found.

Schlupp helps Palace engineer the biggest of upsets

The biggest piece of news from the weekend was that of Manchester City’s surprise 3-2 defeat by Crystal Palace at home. The champions opened the scoring through IIkay Gundogan’s perfect header but it was the Ghanaian, Jeffrey Schlupp who levelled matters from an unlikely scenario, dribbling past two defenders before slotting the ball past Ederson. Townsend, Milivojevic then got in on the act, wrapping up the points for Roy Hodgson’s men before De Bruyne scored a consolation goal in the closing moments of the game.