As the Premier League resumes this weekend after the International break there will be a lot to ponder for various clubs and their managers, none more so than Jose Mourinho. The Manchester United manager has faced much scrutiny as of late, and the first international break of the season will have allowed the Portuguese coach to ponder on his plans to turn around United’s fortunes before they play high-flying Watford at Vicarage Road on Saturday. Two wins and two defeats after four games leaves United languishing in 10th place. Before the Premier League resumes, what would Mourinho have considered in order for United to climb the table? Here are the five things Mourinho must address to take United out of their slump:
Permanent Centre-Back Pairing
One major problem Jose Mourinho has to ponder on is the issue of his centre backs. Throughout the summer United were linked with a whole host of centre backs, mainly Tottenham’s Toby Alderweireld, ex Barcelona defender Yerry Mina – who joined Everton on deadline day and Bayer Munich’s Jerome Boateng. The one position Mourinho was desperate to strengthen above everything else, could not be completed for one reason or another. United were actively interested in Alderweireld for some time, but a deal could not be reached with Tottenham – a missed opportunity if anything else. Now Mourinho must settle for the defenders at his disposal, Lindelof and Bailly and may have been the dream partnership for the Old Trafford, but their abysmal performance at Brighton in the 3-2 defeat at the Amex seems to have them lose the trust of Mourinho. So who can the Portuguese really depend on until January at least in order for United to correct their recent slump? Despite the number of options at his disposal, it seems as though Mourinho has a huge task on his hands.
Ponder on his best XI
On many occasions during his tenure as Manchester United manager has Jose Mourinho flirted with chopping and changing his approach to certain games, forgetting the idea and importance of having a settled first XI. Certainly deploying specific players to counteract the threat of the opposition is a worthy tactic. However, Mourinho must pick his best eleven, trust and stick to it like Guardiola did to great effect last season. Jamie Redknapp highlighted after the Brighton defeat that Mourinho still does not know his best eleven after over 2 years at the club and that is a major issue. The fact that he constantly chips and changes highlights the lack of trust he has in his side, but with the quality at his arsenal, picking a stable side should not be a problem. If Mourinho aspires for a major trophy this season, having a stable and settled side is the ingredient to success. Just ask Guardiola.
How to get Paul Pogba and Alexis Sanchez firing again
Arguably two of the most talented players in Jose Mourinho’s squad – Paul Pogba and Alexis Sanchez – are at a crossroads at this point in their partnership. Literally. On numerous occasions during last season have both players not had the ability and connection to fully work together. For players with so much quality you would have expected harmony between them within an instant, but the interplay between the two has at times been non-existent. Whether its to do with Mourinho’s tactics or both their inabilities to work together – United fans will be praying its the former. With so much uncertainty surrounding Paul Pogba’s future and happiness at the club, and the stop start period Sanchez has been through at United, Mourinho must find a way to get Pogba and Sanchez playing in the kind of connection and togetherness that United fans have been dreaming of since Sanchez’ arrival in January.
Style of Play
We all know the many debates and topics that have been thrown around concerning Jose Mourinho and side, its those stories regarding Mourinho’s style of play. Those people at the centre of those debates aren’t wrong. If you look at the other top sides in the division, you just know how they are gonna play, their identity and what they are trying to do as a unit. On the other hand there’s Manchester United, and then you’re left wondering, what do we associate with their football? You look at Klopp’s Liverpool, and you know how they’re going to set up, likewise Manchester City and Pochettino’s Tottenham. Yes, three trophies during his time at the helm is impressive, but we can’t really say Mourinho has changed anything in terms of the clubs identity and style. If Mourinho aims to take United to the top again, he must reassure the fans of the identity and plans he has in store for them. The Theater of Dreams needs its aura back.
Relationship with the Fans
Throughout his tenure, Mourinho’s relationship with the United faithful has been on and off like a light switch, his various criticisms of the support for the players and atmosphere inside Old Trafford will not have given fans much reason of optimism and to add to that, his criticism of certain individuals in the squad and his cautious approach to games. But in order to get fans on side and not lose them like he did in his last run as Chelsea manager, he must give the fans reasons to be cheerful whether in press conferences and most importantly on the pitch.
It may be uneasy seeing Cristiano Ronaldo without a Real Madrid shirt on this season, and instead replacing it with a Juventus jersey for the foreseeable future, but that’s the reality of the game right now after such an intriguing and captivating summer of transfers. Despite all the doom and gloom surrounding Real Madrid and the aura around the club at the thought of losing a living club legend, who could blame Cristiano Ronaldo for wanting a new challenge, and going for pastures new. They sometimes say the grass ain’t always greener but for Ronaldo, that isn’t the case, he’s certainly picturing another set of grass he could conquer and Juventus may just be the ideal club for him to overcome.
The 33-year-old superstar hit an astonishing 450 career goals in nine seasons in Madrid, helping the club along the way to secure two La-Liga titles and four Champions league crowns in the last 5 of those 9 years. A remarkable feat for a player who has enjoyed such an illustrious career, lets not forget his time at Manchester United also where he was also seen in such high regard as he is at the Santiago Bernabeu. A man with a natural tendency to conjure up magical pieces of brilliance and moments of sheer class. A huge loss even for a club of Real Madrid’s stature.
On numerous occasions did Ronaldo come up with such sheer brilliance just like he did against his new club Juventus last season
Enough of the legendary man, much of the concern within the Real Madrid camp will centre around the idea of replacing Ronaldo and filling a massive gaping hole with the famous number 7 shirt vacant for the time being. Fans have been clinging on to hope that Real Madrid would recruit another galactico to compensate for the loss of Ronaldo but with the La Liga transfer window well and truly closed, those hopes and dreams have become a mere illusion. Much had been made of a dream potential deal for either of Paris Saint Germain’s starlets Neymar and World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe – ideal successors to Cristiano Ronaldo’s vacated throne along with Chelsea’s Eden Hazard. Although any potential deal for either of those three superstars may have to wait for next summer.
Could either of these two superstars set foot on the holy grail of the Santiago Bernabeu anytime soon?
Whatever happens though, whether or not Real Madrid do get the dream opportunity of signing either Kylian Mbappe or Neymar, new coach Julen Lopetegui will be tasked with rebuilding this Real Madrid side who’s Champions League triumph – third in a row – surely took their third placed finish in La Liga and early exits in the domestic cup competitions to what could have been below-par season, to a special one. Though, it is a project Lopetegui is looking forward to, “Reinventing the team without Cristiano Ronaldo is an exciting challenge” he stated in the summer.
Lopetegui may not have to worry about the loss of Ronaldo at all with the players at his disposal. Karim Benzema may be on his last chance saloon at the club with many expecting him to have departed this summer, though Lopetegui is keeping faith in the former French international, constantly seen as the perfect foil for Ronaldo in previous seasons, it will be interesting to see how he can perform without the help of his former teammate. With two goals in the 4-1 victory over Leganes, the second a real poachers effort, Benzema is already showing he’s still got what it takes to lead the line at the Bernabeu. Lets not forget how much of a loyal and major asset he has been to the club during his nine years at the Bernabeu.
How will Karim Benzema fare without the assistance of CR7?
Alongside Benzema, is Welsh superstar Gareth Bale who will now be seen as the main man at the Santiago Bernabeu now that Ronaldo has left. The question that arises for Bale will be whether he can keep fit throughout the season and become the player that Madrid have hoped, for such a long while. No doubt about it Bale, has achieved so much at the Bernabeu already, but now without Ronaldo, can Bale now win points on his own just as much as Ronaldo did? Can he take up the habit of producing magical moments on a weekly basis? A injury-free season will give him every opportunity to.
What about the Spanish maestro Isco, a wonderful player to watch when he’s in the mood, building the team around Isco will surely be Lopetegui’s aim for the future. Isco though, is another player who has only been one the cusp of the Real Madrid squad but will find his fortunes transformed now that Lopetegui is the man at the helm. The former Spanish coach is a huge fan of Isco and deployed the former Malaga playmaker as his main attacking linchpin throughout his reign managing the Spanish national side as well as at Under-21 level.
The loss of Cristiano Ronaldo so far, looks as though it may not be bad as it has seemed all summer. 3 wins from 3 for the Champions League winners so far in La Liga soon after their catastrophic collapse against Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Super cup and 10 goals scored – although it may be too early to get excited – fans may already be asking the question; “Ronaldo who?”
Real Madrid eased to a 4-1 victory over Leganes at the weekend.
Though some fans may still be feeling the loss of CR7, one player looking to step out of the shadows and fulfill his undoubted potential, a player we already have become accustomed to on may occasions over the past two years, and who just might be finally finding his place the first 11 is Spanish wonderkid Marco Asensio.
Born in Palma, Majorca, Balearic Islands to a Dutch mother and Spanish father. His mother tragically died to cancer when he was 15 years old. Asensio has endured a steady progression into Real Madrid’s star-studded squad. Plying his trade in Mallorca where he started out as a youngster, he was then scouted by both Barcelona and Real Madrid in 2013/14 while making his debut for the Mallorca reserves in the Segunda Division.
After some impressive performances, Asensio was rewarded with a permanent call up to the first team squad, scoring his first senior goal in March 2014 in a 2-0 home win against CD Tenerife. Later in November Asensio was snapped up by Real Madrid, signing a six-year deal for a fee of around £3million pounds which shall we say has been a real bargain by the Spanish giants. After a full pre-season in 2015, Asensio was then loaned out to Espanyol where he enjoyed a fruitful spell at the Estadi Cornella-El Prat stadium ending his time with 4 goals and 12 assists in 37 first team appearances.
Asensio enjoyed a fruitful loan spell at RCD Espanyol three years ago.
Returning for the 2016/17 season, from then on, Marco Asensio has never looked back. featuring in various finals for Real Madrid under former coach Zinedine Zidane. UEFA Super Cup, scoring in the 4-1 Champions League final triumph over Juventus and contributing sparingly to Real Madrid’s La Liga title triumph in the same season. Last season may not have been quite the same success as the previous for Madrid suffering considerably in the league finishing behind both major rivals Barcelona and Atletico Madrid – 17 points from their El Clasico rivals – but their third Champions League triumph in a role certainly put the gloss over a season marred by domestic struggles.
Last season may have been a mixed one considering the unbelievable achievement of becoming the first team to win the Champions League three times in a row. A remarkable feat. However, Real Madrid are a team demanded and expected to be dominating domestically as well as on the European front, but that wasn’t the case last season but one positive note Real Madrid Florentino Perez can take from last term is the form and rapid progression of Marco Asensio. Six goals and six assists in La Liga last term quickly endeared Asensio to the Real Madrid faithful.
True, he may not have started as many games as he would have liked but its the impact he made off the bench that would – on a number of occasions – change Real Madrid’s destiny in an instant, it was his impressive two assists down the left wing that set Real Madrid on their way to a 3-1 second leg victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last 16 tie last season. It was a period former coach Zinedine Zidane needed that extra bit of impetus, that bit of youthful exuberance and bit of quality; Asensio was the man to come off the bench and prove the difference. Asensio was the match winner in the first leg of their semi-final tie against fellow Champions League giants Bayern Munich, it was his interception at the vital moment, picking up the ball playing in Lucas Vazquez who then returned it to the Spanish youngster showing his composure and technique to coolly lift the ball over Ulreich in the Bayern Munich goal. A goal befitting of player who always comes up with that moment of quality or magic to carry Madrid over the line. Remind you of a recent former legend?
MUNICH, GERMANY – APRIL 25: Marco Asensio of Real Madrid celebrates after scoring his sides second goal during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final First Leg match between Bayern Muenchen and Real Madrid at the Allianz Arena last season.
A player blessed with great skill, technical abilities, vision and as explained before, the knack of popping up at the right place at the right time for Real Madrid. Not only that though, its his ability to conjure some worldies also, if you need any examples just check his goals against Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup last term, a jaw-dropping effort which had Marc Andre Ter-Stegen dumbfounded on both occasions – one at the Camp Nou and then the return leg over at the Bernabeu, just take your pick out of either one. Sumptuous efforts. Those two goals aren’t the only impressive goals he’s scored so far for the club, check out the video below and you’ll see why Asensio is something special.
Against Leganes at the week, Asensio was at his sparkling best, he may not have scored a goal or come up with an assist. However, his link-up play and understanding with the likes of fellow countryman Isco and Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema will surely be an exciting element to Julen Lopetegui’s team and to Real Madrid’s season. Those four alone – without the help of Ronaldo – have the quality, winning experience and togetherness to knock Barcelona off their perch and reclaim the La Liga crown.
Can Marco Asensio become an established star in the Real Madrid squad this season?
This season has started off a little strange not seeing Cristiano Ronaldo without a Real Madrid shirt, and many have wondered whether Real Madrid will swiftly sign a replacement. What remains to be seen is whether those likely candidates Real Madrid have been hell-bent on replacing Ronaldo with, will ever set foot on the green grass that Ronaldo once set his own feet upon, with such legendary acumen. Can the likes of Kylian Mbappe or Neymar – that is, if they do set foot in at the Bernabeu – be the galactico Real Madrid have been longing for a number of years now.
For now though, Madrid may have the galactico they’ve been hoping and praying for, though its not Neymar or Kylian Mbappe or even Eden Hazard. It’s Marco Asensio. For too long he’s had to come out the shadows and at times drag Real Madrid through the mud, but now that Ronaldo has departed, Asensio has the opportunity under Lopetegui to finally become the established star Real Madrid need. Watch this space.
As Wolverhampton Wanderers stepped out on their first Premier League encounter since May 2012 – to a reception of fireworks, cheers, billowing smoke and 20,000 odd rapidly waving flags, it would have taken a very studied individual to realize the contrasts with the last time the Molineux hosted a Premier League game. Back then, in May 2012, Everton were the opponents like Saturday’s curtain raiser; there were certainly no waving flags, or fireworks to greet an already relegated side.
Everything about that day was so sour, disappointing as Wolves endured such a difficult season in the top flight. While fans wanted a little entertainment from the match, some excitement after the season they had just experienced, their season was summed by Caretaker manager Terry Connor’s comments at the end of the game, “If we couldn’t win then we wanted to take something from the game” which further emphasized Wolves’ lack of quality and end product throughout an abject campaign.
Fast forward half a dozen years later, we find a new and improved Wolverhampton Wanderers, not just within the squad but the backroom staff, a highly ambitious manager, a rich owner further reflected in the huge influx of new players over the summer. Various links to mega agent Jorge Mendes who represents coach Nuno Espirito Santo, has seen Wolves potentially transform into potentially one of the best newly promoted sides ever to set foot in the Premier League.
Wolves coach Nuno Espirito Santo has transformed Wolves into a formidable outfit.
If you take a close look at Wolves’ additions over the summer, you would understand why many neutrals place Santo’s men in high regard in the lead up to the new season. It’s not only about the quality of players they have brought in but it is fascinating that most of their signings are of Portuguese origin which again all stems from the relationships Nuno Santo and the club’s hierarchy have in tandem with Jorge Mendes. After the takeover of the club by Fosun International, Mendes was implemented as an agent representing the whole club. He is one of the most influential figures in the world of football and amongst his current clients include Cristiano Ronaldo, Jose Mourinho, David De Gea, James Rodriguez to name a few.
The clubs ties with such figures shows their on going progression and the signings made this summer – despite the need for patience to get them gelled together – shows real signs of encouragement for both the supporters and the club itself. Signings such as Rui Patricio and Jao Moutinho, two European Championship winners with Portugal in 2016 will add much needed steel, guile and experience. Belgian midfielder Leander Dendoncker signed from Anderlecht with a lot of potential to be unlocked. Record signing Adama Traore, a player who has been deemed a player with real promise for so long, can he now unlock his true rapid and vibrant nature on the big stage? Diogo Jota really impressed on loan last season in the Championship which led the club to secure his services permanently this summer. Leo Bonatini and Raul Jimenez are players with a real eye for goal with the latter scoring an impressive late equaliser to salvage Wolves a point against Everton last weekend. Both players will be tasked with firing Wolves to Premier League safety – a luxury they could not utilise during their previous efforts in the top flight.
Adama Traore – signed on a club record transfer from Middlesbrough for £18million.
Wolves do hold a number of talents and experience in their star studded squad, throw in players who have graced the club for a number of years such as Connor Coady, Ryan Bennett and Roman Saiss will provide Wolves with the know-how and leadership in the dressing room; players that Nuno Santo can heavily rely on to set the mood amongst his players.
Nuno Santo has pieced together a team that is well balanced and refined. Quality in every department from the goalkeeper to the firepower upfront. But one player who could potentially be the key to Wolves’ ambition this season, a player who has resolutely exerted himself as one of the leaders in the squad despite his tender age, a player who has the cutting edge and quality to gather points on his own – as shown on Saturday – is the Portuguese midfield maestro Ruben Neves. Many were left wondering as to how he did not make the Portuguese squad for the World Cup this summer – probably because he was plying his trade in the English second division. However, his performances alone should have been enough to earn a spot alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and co in Russia.
Ruben Neves was a central figure in Wolves’ promotion push last season.
Neves spent last season negotiating the Championship effortlessly in his first season at the club. Signed for a undisclosed fee from Portuguese giants FC Porto believed to be in the region of £15.8million. Many eyebrows were raised when Nuno Santo secured the deal, after all he did successfully coach Neves while he was at Porto himself. It was a smart move from Santo, investing in a player he knew well and would easily adapt to the style he wanted to bring to the Molineux and Neves has achieved that with consummate ease. Confident, assured in possession, long range passing, shooting, blessed with excellent vision and the ability to pick the right tackles. At 21 years of age, Ruben Neves is already showing glimpses of the complete midfielder.
A player who captained FC Porto at just 18 may have just found his natural habitat in English football. His performance against Everton on Saturday was one for the ages, the perfect performance any midfielder can ask for; a goal and an assist. It’s a shame he only had a point to show for it. The free-kick to put Wolves in front was a peach, an absolute pearl, taken from a player who is a constant menace from outside the box. The stats below tell its own story.
What about the delivery for Jimenez’ equalizer? An absolute gem. The guile and technical craft in which to perfectly lift the ball at the right height for Raul Jimenez to head in was sumptuous. Terry Connor’s team, an honest group who had played above themselves back in 2012 had no one near the ability and quality as close to Ruben Neves’ capabilities. The Portuguese maestro is the perfect poster boy for everything Wolves are aspiring to achieve. Considering the nature of this article, it certainly won’t be an exaggeration to say Neves, who turns 22 in March, would improve any of the top sides in the Premier League. What it would take for any of those sides to prize him away from the Molineux is another matter entirely, maybe even Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid could be in for a sniff for his services in the future. He’s that good a player. A player destined to lead not only at club level but on the international front too, what’s for certain is that barring any injuries, Neves is sure to be a regular in the Portugal XI for the next European Championships in 2020.
Nonetheless, the system Nuno Santo employs is perfect for Neves, and one in which makes him the important pivot in midfield, the one who orchestrates attacks, the one who sets the tempo and pieces all the elements of Santo’s philosophy together like what Kevin De Bruyne is to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Neves is Santo’s midfield enforcer, if football was a puppet show, the Portuguese coach wouldn’t allow Neves out of his sight, he is the highlight reel, the poster boy, the main event. “We build from behind and pass and support”, Santos says when discussing the operation and role of Neves in his puzzle. “Ruben with his quality, has to give us that. And he will do so every moment of the game in every circumstance: losing, drawing, winning.” With players such as Jao Moutinho – another technically gifted performer – by his side, Neves can reach feats that even Moutinho couldn’t reach himself despite his own artistry.
Ruben Neves is an absolute artist from outside the box. What a player.
From Saturdays evidence, Wolves will have a lot to work on especially in defence particularly with Santo’s three at the back system. Everton exploited weaknesses that hardly any Championship side identified last season as they waltzed towards the trophy. That’s the difference between both competitions, there is no room for any slump in the Premier League, or else you’ll be punished within a flash as Richarlison’s impressive second goal emphasized. No doubt about it, Santo is an astute tactician and Wolves will have a lot to look forward to this season, and one man central to those lofty ambitions is the midfield general, Ruben Neves. The man tasked with connecting all of Nuno Santo’s jigsaw pieces together.
France’s victory over Croatia – and the manner in which this superb and frantic finale unfolded at the atmospheric Luzhniki Stadium – provided a captivating end to what has been a thrilling and emphatic tournament.
This past month in Russia, fans have witnessed a showpiece, huge entertainment underpinned by some superb organisation. Many thought this tournament will not be as successful as it has been because of the controversy surrounding the whole nation. Despite all of that, once the first game kicked off between Egypt and Saudi Arabia four weeks ago, much of the off-field issues had been forgotten. This years tournament has significantly, provided a feast of football filled with elements of surprise, thrills, VAR controversies, epic encounters and most of all spectacular goals which arguably makes this the most entertaining and exciting World Cup of the modern era.
Sunday’s finale had everything you wanted in a final – the highest scoring final since England won it against West Germany in 1966. A whole lifetime ago. France and Croatia entered the epic showpiece with so much riding on it for both teams. Yes, Croatia may have scraped their way through the whole knockout stages but it is the grit and determination that won over fans and neutrals – its what you need in such a frenetic and action packed tournament.
Sunday’s finale was the highest scoring final since England vs West Germany in 1966.
The so called ‘golden generation’ of the Croatian game were engulfed with the pressure of making their mark in the history books. Players such as Luka Modric, Ivan Rakitic, Mario Mandzukic and Ivan Perisic. These are players enjoying much success with their respective clubs but this World Cup being probably their last, it was their chance to match and top the heights of the 1998 Croatian side who stunned the whole world only to be defeated by France who went on to win it. The last time a hugely talented France had lifted the much coveted trophy, capturing and making their mark on the grandest stage of them all.
Didier Deschamps – who was the captain of that World Cup winning side in 1998 – and his men came into this World Cup looking for redemption, some reclamation and closure as much as anything else after the disappointment of losing the Euro 2016 final in front of their own fans in Paris. France had everything in their favor on that pleasant July night at the Stade de France – home support, the status of favourites and an early injury to the mighty Cristiano Ronaldo – everything was set up for France to achieve the unachievable until they bottled it in extra-time. They choked at the last hurdle as Portugal’s Eder stunned the world if not the whole of Europe. Didier Deschamps conservatism coming back to haunt him as Portugal dug deep and grinded out a victory – so often as they had done throughout the whole tournament.
Sunday’s showpiece was a chance for France to put things right which they duly delivered.
This meant the pressure and heat was on for Deschamps and his talented squad to wipe away the scars from that night by claiming the World’s greatest prize. And they impressively achieved that goal with some of the finest and most rugged of performances you’ll ever see from such an exciting group of players. Throughout the final showpiece against Croatia, Deschamps side had to dig deep and overcome bombardment from a highly motivated and fearsome Croatian side. A winning combination of all round power, efficiency – sprinkled with the sort of stardust that the likes of Germany, Spain, Argentina and Portugal failed to acquire throughout. The kind that makes all the difference at this elite level.
Hugo Lloris, despite the odd mistake, is still regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world at this moment while the central defensive partnerships of Raphael Varane and Samuel Umtiti have been absolutely brilliant carrying their impressive club forms into the tournament. A partnership that could grace another two or three major tournaments to come. In midfield, the likes of N’golo Kante, Blaise Matuidi and Paul Pogba represent the mix of doggedness, hard work and incredible fluency that graces this majestic French side, but it is in attack where France have the “X-factor”.
Antoine Griezmann is a world class operator – canny, quick, fearless and holds the knack of scoring incredible goals when it matters most. A ruthless edge in front of goal, this was the moment the Atletico Madrid superstar had been coveting for so long – that defining moment that would place him on the pedal stall amongst the greats of this generation such as Ronaldo and Lionel Messi – players who have not had the privilege and grace to lift such a prestigious trophy. Olivier Giroud, despite his not so impressive stats in the tournament, he is a hugely reliable source for Deschamps. His tall physique and hard-working style so endearing to the French coach. Add into the mix, Thomas Lemar, Nabil Fekir, Ousmane Dembele and France have an attack to die for.
And then there is the golden boy, the young kid who has mightily impressed at this grandest stage despite his tender age of 19 years – Kylian Mbappe. The boy destined for greatness, his stature, skills and unerring talents is the key factor as to why this France squad so exciting and pleasing to the eye. Bursting onto the scene two seasons ago with Monaco as he led them to an impressive Ligue 1 title triumph which was then followed by a world record move to arch rivals Paris Saint-Germain which he was then rewarded with another Ligue 1 triumph – his second in a row. Not only in the league did Kylian Mbappe gather a medal for his efforts but also in the Coupe de France, picking up his third medal in two seasons. To put it simply, Kylian Mbappe has had an incredible two-and-a-half years.
World Cup triumph at 19 years of age, an incredible feat for Kylian Mbappe.
If Kylian Mbappe hasn’t made a name for himself before this summer then his antics throughout the grandest stage has certainly made the whole world stand up and take notice at this potential world beater. No one should dare to write premature obituaries to the greats of this generation such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo who both bowed out of the competition earlier than expected considering the stature of both their respective countries, and the latter will now be plying his trade in Italy with Juventus – a move further re-iterating Ronaldo’s desire to remain relevant despite his age at 33.
Lionel Messi is still only 31 and will grace the game for much longer although much will be said and debated whether the Barcelona magician will ever grace a World Cup stage once again. When the guard is ready to change and the baton of being the World’s greatest is about to change hands then Messi and Ronaldo can look no further than Kylian Mbappe – showing already at the age of 19 that he will be a worthy torch bearer for many years to come. Argue of this comment what you will, but Mbappe can dominate the world stage or even the Ballon d’or within the next lets say, 15 years? He has that guile, the panache, the trickery, maturity and the character to achieve that feat.
Mbappe was not an unknown quantity coming into this World Cup, having already impressed at Monaco and now at Paris Saint-Germain. When he expertly notched France’s fourth goal against Croatia – at 19 years and 207 days – he became the second youngest goalscorer at a World Cup final, the feat only bettered by the legendary Brazilian Pele, heard of him? He holds the records having scored against Sweden in the 1958 final at just 17 years old.
Mbappe’s thrilling mixture and blend of electric pace, brilliant finishing and youthful exuberance means he can become a worthy Ballon d’or competitor to fellow Paris Saint-Germain team-mate Neymar. And for a footballer so young, Mbappe has the temperament of a man who has already experienced enough hardships in life. Not only that, but his maturity and humbleness despite the growing nature of the paparazzi who will now be following his every move. On the pitch, he performs like a man already in his prime – and he’s only 19, imagine Mbappe when he reaches the age of twenty-four or twenty-five. Frightening to comprehend.
Throughout the tournament, his decision making and composure has been second to none. His two goals in the last-16 against Argentina further emphasizing his rapid growth and immense ability in front of goal. This boy has it all.
Mbappe celebrates one of his two goals against Argentina.
What about his finish against Croatia. Unerring. The way in which he shaped himself to shoot, steadying himself in a way that very few players can only dream of at the biggest of stages. Many young players Mbappe’s age will struggle to cope with the atmosphere, the buzz of playing in a World Cup final but during the anthem singing, Mbappe had a smile on his face representing the bravery and excitement at which he performs on the pitch. No doubt about it, when Mbappe is on the pitch he is absolutely fun to watch, a joy to behold.
The Daily Telegraph’s chief football correspondent Jason Burt stated on the World Cup Sunday Supplement that the French forward could win the Ballon d’or three or four times over the next 10 years.
“Mbappe is already their (France) best player at 19. I reckon he’s already worth £300m, he is just a phenomenal player. PSG are paying £160m-odd for him, but he’s 19 and he’s taking teams apart. He’s only going to get better and he will win the Ballon d’Or three or four times in the next 10 years, I’m absolutely convinced of that. He will probably be at PSG for a while then Real Madrid will come in for him and he’ll be a world superstar.”
Much will be stated whether Mbappe can achieve that greatness at Paris Saint-Germain, considering their below par appearances in the Champions League in recent years. And a similar form and showing in the most elite competiton at club level could take Mbappe to that next level – breaking the Ronaldo and Lionel Messi Ballon d’or routine. If there is one man capable of breaking that duck, it is Kylian Mbappe. Could we see him in a Real Madrid shirt in future? It is looking ever-so likely, playing for Real Madrid gives you that pedal stall, that platform in which your every move on the pitch is studied and analysed – one that Cristiano Ronaldo has successfully graced over the years. That could be Mbappe’s platform too. The pressure of performing at probably the biggest club in world football certainly cannot faze the young man.
Mbappe celebrates the fourth goal in the WC final against Croatia.
Nonetheless, Kylian Mbappe is at the beginning of what potentially looks like a remarkable career, and with his stellar showings throughout this summers tournament, he certainly confirmed to the whole world that a new star is born. There is simply no limits to what Kylian Mbappe can achieve.
Wow. What an amazing World Cup we have experienced so far. As we continue on with the last 16 ties, let’s just first ponder on the big teams that have been eliminated from the tournament so far. Germany, Argentina, Portugal and Spain. These four teams – at the start of the competition in Russia would have been our candidates to fight it out at the tail end of the tournament. However, the shocks and surprises are what we desired at the beginning of the competition and it has truly delivered on that front.
Firstly, there was Germany’s shock defeat to a wonderfully balanced and talented Mexico side, the way in which the South American controlled the mighty Germans – World Cup winners in 2014 – on and off the ball was a joy to behold. Not only did Germany’s campaign spiral out of control from then on, knocked out at the group stage, but its the way in which Joachim Low’s team failed to recapture the kind of form and performances that wowed the whole world in 2014 and last year in the Confederations Cup. A team filled with a perfect blend of experience and of youthful talent, it just wasn’t to be for the Germans. They could not break the mold of previous winners being knocked out in the Group stage in the following tournament. It happened to Italy in 2010 after their 2006 triumph and it also happened to Spain in 2014 following their 2010 victory. Germany followed suit.
Hirving Lozano celebrates his winning goal against the Germans in the Group F opening game.
Whoever comes out victorious this year will be hoping to break that tradition in four years time. Not only are the mighty Germans out, but also Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal who fell at the hands of dark horses Uruguay and Lionel Messi’s Argentina who failed to overcome the French in what was an enthralling 4-3 encounter in Kazan. Both the two best players in the world right at this moment are out at the last 16 stage. Remarkable.
Disappointment for Germany.
Now, another giant has fallen with Spain failing to overcome the resilient and gritty hosts Russia paving the way for a potentially thrilling quarter-final tie with Croatia. A match filled with a lot of tension as Spain failed to break down the bus Russia parked in front of them. Attack vs defence was the whole theme of the game as Russia needed penalties to overcome the Spanish armada. 120 minutes of tentative and gritty football, Russia’s game plan worked to perfection. Heart, Spirit and Determination was what the hosts needed to overcome and they duly delivered for their nervous on-watching nation.
Russia target man Artem Dzuyba salutes his fans as he scores from the spot against Spain.
To put it simply, this World Cup has been frenetic, energetic, enthralling brimming with excitement. Fantastic goals and a hat full of controversial moments surrounding the implementation of VAR throughout the tournament. From Mexico’s brilliant opening game performance against the Germans to Russia’s hard-fought victory over Spain, the tournament has been edge of seat stuff. With all the uncertainty, negativity and tension in the lead up to the competition regarding the safety and politics of the host nation, this has been a World Cup to remember so far. The best is yet to come as we delve into the latter stages.
Spain fall at the hands of the hosts Russia via penalties.
Remember Nacho’s volley against Portugal? Quite brilliant. Cristiano Ronaldo’s trademark effort against Spain. A night the world stood up once again to Ronaldo’s excellence. Aleksander Golovin’s free-kick against Saudi Arabia was a brilliant effort also. What about Aleksander Kolorov’s free-kick against Costa Rica? What is it about free-kicks in this World Cup? Just goes to show the talent and brilliance on show. Jesse Lingard’s beautifully curled effort against Panama as England routed to a 6-1 victory was also sumptuous which followed a wonderful passing move. Luka Modric’s wonder goal against Argentina, a shot executed to perfection and many more impressive goals have been scored at this summers tournament. Benjamin Pavard’s stunner against Argentina was truly remarkable for a player heavily criticized throughout the World Cup campaign. What a way to silence those haters. A peach of a goal.
Luka Modric notched a memorable goal against Argentina to win Group D
It’s not even goals that have been memorable but individual performances that have caught the eye, from the list of Aleksander Golovin’s against Saudi Arabia where he totally dominated the whole game from start to finish, a performance that has caught the eye of a number of big clubs around Europe – Chelsea, Arsenal and Juventus to name a few who will all be scouting his services throughout the summer window. What about Luka Modric’s performance against Argentina, a piece of brilliance from a player who has not garnered the amount of praise he deserves for both club and country. Jesse Lingard’s against Panama, Cristiano Ronaldo against Spain was something to behold. Harry Kane’s two goal performance against Tunisia and also his hat-trick against Panama has put him right on course for a Golden Boot triumph. A huge achievement for a player with a massive future for both club and country. Much of England’s hopes this summer resting on his shoulders. Croatia’s goalkeeper Danijel Subasic and his penalty shootout heroics against Denmark was one for the ages taking his nation to the quarter-final. A goalkeeping masterclass.
How about Kylian Mbappe’s performance against Messi’s Argentina. The game where many thought Lionel Messi would take the game by the scruff of the neck and become his country’s savior like his famous counterpart Diego Maradona did in ’86. It was not to be as Paris Saint-Germain’s wonderkid and the future of French football stole the headlines and took Messi’s shine like something out of a Elijah and Elisha biblical encounter – the passing of a heavy mantle unto a student… ‘Out with the Old and in with the New’. Mbappe took on Messi’s mantle and delivered France a chance to right their wrongs after the failure in their own backyard at Euro 2016. Not only was it Mbappe that performed but it was Paul Pogba’s sheer dominance of the whole Argentina midfield that would have impressed his own critics.
Kylian Mbappe put his name on the map after a superb performance against Argentina.
Whatever aspect of the World Cup impressed you, there is no doubting that this has been an epic tournament filled with thrills and spills. A World Cup that just keeps on giving superb and memorable moments. With Germany, Spain and Argentina out of the competition. Will we see a dark horse triumph? Croatia? England even? Uruguay? Belgium? Will Mexico? If they overcome the mighty Neymar and Brazil? Or will Brazil finally lift a trophy that has eluded them since 2002. A nation filled with even more heavy expectations now that the some of the big guns have been eliminated. Hold on to your seats as the journey this World Cup has given us is only just beginning as we enter into the meaty part of the knockout stages.
Croatia are through to the last 16 of the World Cup after a stunning and rampant 3-0 victory over Lionel Messi’s Argentina in Nizhny Novgorod – a victory which leaves Argentina in serious danger of exiting the group stage.
On a night where Argentina were in desperate need of inspiration from Lionel Messi much like Portugal have encountered in the recent group stage fixtures potentially in with a chance of qualifying thanks to the brilliance of Cristiano Ronaldo. Argentina and Jorge Sampaoli needed something similar from their magician but it wasn’t to be as Croatia expertly stifled much Argentina’s Messi-led attacks hassling and harrying the Barcelona man before he could even reach the 18 yard box.
It was a plan that was executed to perfection. While Messi was unable to lead his nation to victory, it was another man who the onus fell on to come up with the goods when Croatia needed him most and that man was Real Madrid’s very own magician Luka Modric. A mesmerizing performance from a man who’s contributions to the game very strangely goes under the radar. The silent magician amongst a Real Madrid team full of superstars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, his midfield partner Toni Kroos, Marcelo and Karim Benzema.
Luka Modric is the best midfielder in the world and has been over the last few years. Full stop.
But tonight, Modric’s performance was worldwide and the Croatian can finally get the praise he deserves. Much has been made of Croatia’s chances as the ‘dark horses’ in this World Cup, and a man finally capable of leading a team on his own – I mean, literally, he is the captain of his country. Modric maybe the silent killer amongst the Real Madrid team but for his beloved nation Croatia, he is the leading light, the main man, the captain. Against Argentina, Modric’s performance overshadowed what was supposed to be a magic night for Lionel Messi and co but the Real Madrid man stole the limelight with a performance for the ages.
Croatia are a team filled with similar talents and experience: Ivan Rakitic, Ivan Perisic, Mario Mandzukic to name a few. Plus there’s the up and coming footballers such as Modric’s Real Madrid team-mate Mateo Kovacic, Ante Rebic who plays his club football in Germany for Eintracht Frankfurt, Marcelo Brozovic who plays for Inter Milan. These are players tasked with filling the void which will be left by Luka Modric when he eventually retires. They may have to wait a while because if Modric can perform like he did tonight, Croatia may just need him again for the next Euros at least.
Modric was the better of the famous No.10s on show between Argentina and Croatia.
33 in a couple months, Modric has shown time and time again why he should be placed in the same bracket as the Xavi’s and the Iniesta’s and rightly so. On Thursday night, he was head and shoulders above everyone else along with Ivan Rakitic as players masterfully dominated Argentina’s midfield. When they had the ball, they were mesmirizing, constantly dissecting an Argentina defence who were awful night. It was as if Modric and Rakitic had relived the biblical miracle of Moses parting the Red Sea. It was a joy to watch. Have a look at the pass Modric threaded for Rebic when he blazed over the bar, like knife through butter. Truly wonderful.
Not to forget the second goal which all but ended Argentina’s faint hopes. All but ended Messi’s desperation to finally lead out his team to World Cup glory after their suffering four years ago at the hands of Germany in Brazil. When Modric picked up the ball outside of the box, you knew he would try and find that little yard of space granting him the opportune moment to put Argentina to the sword and that he did. Majestic.
What a performance from Modric. Forget Ronaldo for a moment – as much as he would despise it – much of Real Madrid’s European success over the last few years has been because of the brilliance of Luka Modric. His defensive contributions, his work of the ball and the ability to find pockets of space in the middle of the park to hurt the opposition; that he did to devastating effect.
It will be interesting to see how Croatia fare for the rest of the tournament now they are through to the knockout stages, if Modric and co are gonna perform like that then you cannot take away the fact that this summer maybe Croatia’s opportunity to shine – their opportunity to prove that they are worth those ‘dark horse’ plaudits. Luka Modric will be central to those lofty ambitions. Magnificent performer.
The first round of this summers World Cup 2018 in Russia provided plenty of excitement, lots of goals, controversy, stand-out performers and well, own goals but what have we learned from the Tournament so far?
The Hosts are Enjoying Themselves
The Hosts – Russia – find themselves into the next round of their tournament after their 3-1 victory over Egypt.
Russia roared to a 3-1 victory over Egypt keeping their perfect start to the 2018 World Cup in-tact. After their rampant 5-0 victory Saudi Arabia on the opening day, the hosts are impressing not only their own fans but the neutrals also. It remains to be seen what they’ll do once the knockout stages comes to the fore in a few weeks time but its clear Russia are laying down marker. Declared the worst nation heading into the tournament after their poor form but they have put those tags to bed with two brilliant performances. Whoever they get in the next round last-16, however difficult it may be, just know that Russia won’t go down without a fight.
World Cup 2018 wide open
Germany endured an opening day defeat against Mexico.
What a roller coaster ride the World Cup has served us already. Heavy favorites Germany, Spain, Brazil and Argentina all failed to win the opening game of the tournament which leaves us to question how they will fare for the rest of the group stage. Germany’s defeat to Mexico must have been a tough one to take for Joachim Low and his men, but they have to admit they were soundly beaten by a team who will be brimming with confidence after that impressive performance. Germany face a difficult and resolute Sweden side next who will also be filled with confidence after their opening game win against South Korea.
At all costs, Germany must be victorious or else we could be faced with the possibility of a knockout stage without the mighty Germans – the reigning World Champions. Wow. Who can imagine that? Brazil, Spain and Argentina are all in desperate need of victories and these next few days could prove pivotal as to how the knockout could shape out once it begins. France were victorious in their opening game but at the expense of an underwhelming performance against Australia, if they are to harbor hopes of lifting the famous trophy, they must improve fast.
Mexico could be the surprise package
Mexico put in a brilliant performance against reigning champions Germany, could they be the surprise package?
What a performance. If you watched Mexico’s victory over mighty Germany, you would have thought Mexico were the reigning champions. It’ll be interesting to see how they fare for the rest of the group stages but you don’t put in a performance like that against Germany and not mean business. Columbia were the surprise package of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and Mexico just might be the unexpected dark horses throughout the tournament. Hirving Lozano, Carlos Vela, Javier Hernandez, Hector Herrera, Andres Guardado and co. Mexico find themselves with an embarrassment of riches in their squad. Just how far can they go if they continue to perform like they did against Germany. Ones to watch.
Slow Starts for the World Stars
Messi endured a difficult start to the tournament against Iceland.
At the start of the tournament we listed the superstar big names that would be hoping to assist their nations in gracing themselves with the World Cup trophy. But on the evidence of the opening fixtures, only one of them turned up in full force and that’s Cristiano Ronaldo who picked up yet another hat-trick – his 51st – against Spain last Friday. Portugal may not be many fans cup of teas to lift the trophy come the eve of July 15th but if Ronaldo produces masterclasses like the one he gave on Friday who’s to say Portugal can’t upset the odds once again after their unlikely Euro 2016 victory.
However, his fellow stars Neymar, Messi, Lewandowski, Luis Suarez and Antoine Griezmann all endured underwhelming starts to their World Cup campaigns with all harboring ambitions of leading their nations to World Cup glory. Messi and Neymar most of all have the weight of their respective nations on their fashionable shoulders and their performances will have to vastly improve if those ambitions are to be fulfilled. The latter may find that a wee bit difficult after the Brazilian superstar limped out of training on Tuesday evening. Could this be another disappointing World Cup for Neymar? He cannot afford to have that on his resume, Brazil desperately need him.
Group H May Pull Up Some Surprises
Columbia suffered a shock opening game defeat to Japan.
If you hadn’t noticed, Group H is the most evenly balanced group of all at this summers tournament. All the nations are all perceived as underdogs or dark horses as you may like to call them. Japan, Columbia, Senegal and Poland all have the ability to hurt any of the top nations on their day. But which two did you predict to go through of paper? It was most likely Columbia and Poland right? Well, you may have to reconsider those predictions after Tuesdays results.
Japan and Senegal, two of the unlikely sources in the group all enjoyed a fruitful start to the competition – the latter being the first African side in the tournament to pick up three points – which has added a much interesting scenario to Group H, do not sleep on this group. It may just surprise you.
Harry Kane Means Business.. Put Those ‘World Class’ debates to Bed Now
Kane scored an emphatic winning goal against Tunisia to dig England out of an all too similar major tournament opening game hole.
‘Kane is World Class’, ‘Kane is not World Class yet’, ‘Kane needs to win trophies to become World Class’. These ‘World class debates surrounding Harry Kane has become all too boring now, lets just put this case to bed. Harry Kane is amongst one of the best strikers in the world right now and his heroics against Tunisia on Monday night shows that the Tottenham man means business this summer. This World Cup may just be the opportunity for Harry Kane to make his stamp in the history books, he may just be the man to lead England to glory, he has the quality doesn’t he? A man can only dream. Well, his beloved clubs mantra ‘Dare to Dream’ says it all.
Go on son !
Russia’s ‘James Rodriguez’?
CSKA Moscow’s Aleksander Golovin has massively impressed so far for Russia.
Remember when a certain young James Rodriguez lit up the World Cup 2014 in Brazil and got himself a dream move to mighty Real Madrid as soon as Columbia’s impressive run came to an end? Finishing top scorer with 6 goals to boot? Well, we may just have another version in Russia’s playmaker Aleksander Golovin. 2 games played for this man, and he has already lightened up the tournament with his rampant performances for his nation. If Russia are to dream of going far in their own soil this summer, this man will be key to their ambitions. Silky on the ball, brave, he has the vision, the panache and to cap it off, the set piece brilliance scoring Russia’s fifth goal against Saudi Arabia. No wonder why clubs like Arsenal, Manchester United and Juventus are all touting his services.
You may not have heard of the name before the tournament begun. But you will before the summer is out. What a player.
The World Cup 2018 in Russia is upon us, and much talking points, debates and issues have sprung as to who can make an impression in the tournament and most significantly, who will come out on top when the final on July 15th comes around.
While much intrigue will be on who has the capabilities to claim the prestigious trophy, what about the personal honor of finishing top scorer of a World Cup, we already know the famous players who have had the privilege of such acclaim – great players like Miroslav Klose and the Brazilian Ronaldo, but which player will mark their name in the history books this summer?
Here are the list of top contenders hoping to claim the golden boot trophy:
Lionel Messi, (Argentina)
The weight of the world will be on Lionel Messi’s shoulders.
One of the greatest players ever to grace the game – Lionel Messi. This summers tournament will place Messi once again in the spotlight, with the weight of the world on his shoulders – not just Argentina – but the whole world will want to see whether Messi can grace a major international tournament just like his counterpart Diego Maradona once did. Coach Jorge Sampaoli earlier in the year stated that “Lionel Messi has seen the world cup become ‘a revolver put to his head’ with his nation failing a many occasions such as the last World Cup finishing runners up after Mario Gotze’s late winner. Messi controversially won the golden ball four years ago but this summer he’ll be hoping to win that, the golden boot and more importantly the prestigious World Cup trophy.
Cristiano Ronaldo, (Portugal)
This may be Ronaldo’s last major international tournament – can he bow out on another high?
Cristiano Ronaldo may not have as much pressure on his shoulders as Lionel Messi but don’t allow him to hear you say that. Ronaldo will want to bow out of probably his last major international tournament on a high as his nation did two years at Euro 2016 in France. However, he was injured in that game and didn’t take part as Eder handed Portugal that all important strike, how Ronaldo would have loved to notch that kinda goal on such a special night.
This summer in Russia is his chance to make his mark. A huge favorite to take the Golden boot trophy too.
Antoine Griezmann, (France)
Griezmann finished top scorer in Euro 2016 with 6 goals.
Despite France’s sorry defeat to Portugal on their own turf, Antoine Griezmann still had a tournament to remember finishing Euro 2016 with 6 goals. With all the uncertainty surrounding his future at Atletico Madrid, it now certainly looks like he will be staying at the Wanda Metropolitano. Now that his future is sorted, we are in for another brilliant tournament from the French striker.
It’s about time the World sees how good Antoine Griezmann really is.
Neymar (Brazil)
This has to be Neymar’s World Cup right?
If there is one player in the same pressure on his shoulders as Messi, it sure is Brazil’s own golden boy Neymar. The PSG star chose the French capital because he believed he could become the worlds best over there rather than with Lionel Messi. Last season was a good one, though it could have been better for Neymar if he hadn’t been absent for much of the season, but now his beloved Brazil need him now more than ever before, a chance to right their wrongs after disaster of four years ago at the hands of eventual champions Germany. Neymar was absent through injury that night, but few could only imagine what could have been if he had played, so now is the time to show up when it matters.
There is no doubting his world class abilities. After Lionel Messi and CR7, he is considered the best around, and this summer is the time to show it.
Luis Suarez, (Uruguay)
Luis Suarez and Uruguay are dark horses for this summers tournament – can they cause a stir?
Whenever people debate who are the best strikers in the world, everyone tends to just about forget Luis Suarez or are hesitant in placing him in that category. My question is: Why? Luis Suarez is world class – when he isn’t causing trouble – and this maybe the opportunity for him to make his mark in history and lead Uruguay to unexpected glory, with the firepower they have at their disposal including Edinson Cavani, you can’t rule out a dark horse making their mark.
Edinson Cavani, (Uruguay)
Edinson Cavani has enjoyed a very fruitful season for PSG, can he now translate that form on the World stage?
The fact that Uruguay boast two of the best strikers on the planet means they cannot be written off in Russia, we’ve mentioned the enigma, Luis Suarez but we can’t forget about Edinson Cavani who was a revelation in front of goal for PSG last season, now can he carry on that form into Russia – where it matters most. My problem with Cavani is, when you don’t need him to turn up he does but, when you desperately need him he doesn’t deliver – PSG’s struggles in the Champions League are an example.
This summer is Cavani’s chance to prove his doubters wrong – well, I mean myself.
Robert Lewandowski, (Poland)
Lewandowski is another player in need of a good tournament in Russia.
No doubting Robert Lewandowski’s scoring prowess for both club and country, but very few of them come in major tournaments. The Bayern Munich striker notched a brace in their warm-up friendly against Lithuania taking his goal tally before the tournament to four goals in three games, but the question is whether he can carry it in to the World Cup where he struggles to make a name for himself.
Poland rely hugely on Lewandowski despite their influx of fairly talented players in midfield and attack, but can he overcome that pressure this summer? Though, he is a definite contender for the Golden boot award.
Harry Kane, (England)
Is this the year Harry Kane marks his name in the history books?
Much of England’s potential success in this summers tournament – however you want to measure it – depends upon whether Harry Kane can replicate his Tottenham form unto the world stage. Kane has enjoyed another goal glut season for the North London club and Gareth Southgate and co will be hoping Kane can finally prove he has what it takes to cut it amongst the World’s elite strikers – how about winning the Golden boot award for a shot?
You wouldn’t bet against Harry Kane. No pressure.
Timo Werner, (Germany)
One of the brightest striking prospects will be gracing the World stage in Germany colours this summer.
RB Leipzig’s Timo Werner will be heading into Russia an unknown quantity in comparison to the other names on this list, but that doesn’t mean he won’t shine on probably the most important stage of his career so far leading the line for the World champions Germany. Mario Gomez and Miroslav Klose proved brilliant forwards leading the line over the years of Joachim Low’s men but now its time to make room for a potential shining light in Timo Werner. Following in their boots will prove difficult but on the evidence at club level, Werner will have no problems at all.
An excellent watch in the Bundesliga for the past two seasons with 21 goals in each campaign – hence Leipzig’s sudden emergence as a top 6 side. Also winning the Golden boot in the 2017 Confederations Cup will have mightily impressed his fans, but now the World Cup will be a great opportunity to put his name on the map. Providing he clicks, he will be in and around the top goalscorers list this summer.
Kylian Mbappe (France)
Finally this is our chance to see Kylian Mbappe perform on the World stage.
Age is just a number. Kylian Mbappe maybe the youngest on this list, but that doesn’t mean he won’t cut it amongst the elite strikers on this list. What a player. Simply outstanding to watch. There is no doubting this boys talents, and now is our chance to finally see what he can do when it matters most. If France are to have any chance of finally overcoming their demons on the World stage since 1998, Kylian Mbappe like Antoine Griezmann and Paul Pogba will be a central figure.
There is simply no fear in Mbappe when he takes on players, a player demonstrating skills, technical abilities and goal scoring powers beyond his tender years. This boy has a very very bright future and this summer is only just the start. Frightening.
Gabriel Jesus, (Brazil)
Gabriel Jesus’ first major international tournament and he will be hoping to make his mark.
What a journey Gabriel Jesus has been on, 5 years ago he probably would not have thought he’d be the main man for one of the best coaches in the world in Pep Guardiola, helping his team capturing the Premier League title at a canter, getting ahead of one of the biggest names in the game in Sergio Aguero and leading the line for his country in the famous no.9 shirt worn famously by a number of Brazil heroes such as Ronaldo who Jesus has drawn much comparisons to.
This will be Jesus’ first major tournament for Brazil, and with players such as Coutinho, Willian, Neymar and co. in and around him, he has every chance of leading his country to World Cup glory, even winning the Golden boot in the process. Who knows what this summer holds for Gabriel Jesus.
Mo Salah, (Egypt)
Can Mo Salah continue on his extraordinary year this summer in Russia?
When Mo Salah signed on the dotted line for Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool last summer, little did he know he would be the first African footballer to finish top scorer in the Premier League. An absolutely astonishing season Mo Salah has had, equaling the kind of scoring feats that Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo would be proud of each season. If he can win the golden boot in the Premier League, who’s to say he can’t achieve the same at the World Cup? The shoulder injury picked up against Real Madrid looks to have healed and now Salah can focus on making an impression on the grandest stage of them all.
Romelu Lukaku, (Belgium)
Belgium’s all-time top goalscorer Romelu Lukaku.
Romelu Lukaku may be the last on this list, but he is certainly not the least. A fantastic first season at Manchester United has now given the big Belgian an incentive to even make his mark on the world stage. Already his countries all time goal-scorer at the age of 25 is an amazing feat. Lukaku can take great pride in his leading his nation out in Russia and probably living up to their ‘Dark Horses’ tag. Can Lukaku lead Belgium to an unlikely success? One things for certain, his name will definitely appear as one of the main goalscorers throughout the tournament, you can risk your mortgage on that.
Diego Costa, (Spain)
How will Spain line-up this summer? Will Diego Costa start?
Was a bit hesitant placing Diego Costa on this list of contenders simply for the fact that we really don’t know if Spain will start their campaign with a recognized striker or whether new coach Fernando Hierro will go for broke and start with a midfielder as the leading front man. Whatever Hierro chooses, Spain will be lethal. Considering he goes with Diego Costa, you cannot rule out the Atletico Madrid target man making a massive impact in Russia.
As this summers World Cup draws closer to our screens this summer, much eyes have been cast on which players will light up this summers tournament in Russia. We can already pick out who the superstars will be and how they will fare, but how about the younger generation?
Here I pick out some of the current crop of youngsters outside the Premier League who will be looking to make their mark on the grandest stage of them all:
Marco Asensio, (Spain)
Asensio has enjoyed two impressive seasons in the Real Madrid’s first team, could the World Cup be his platform to impress for his national side?
We already know the talent Spain boast at their disposal and its no wonder why national team coach Julen Lopetegui will be having headaches and sleepless nights leading up to the opening game against Portugal on who should make the first XI. Players such as Diego Costa, David Silva, Isco, Rodrigo, Iniesta, Koke, Thiago are some of those superstars but one man who is not far from reaching stardom is Real Madrid’s Marco Asensio.
What a player. If you’ve watched Real Madrid over the past couple of seasons including last, you’d realize that Asensio has been just as vital as Cristiano Ronaldo in the Real Madrid side – as crazy as that sounds. His bravery in possession, his dribbling, vision, pace, skill, and technical nous, this kid has got everything in his locker. He may not have got the game time he will have wanted this past season at the Bernabeu but no doubt about it, Marco Asensio is not only Real Madrid’s future but Spain too.
Timo Werner, (Germany)
Germany boast a superstar striker in the making in RB Leipzig’s Timo Werner.
Timo Werner may be unheard of right now, but if you haven’t noticed this talent already then you do not know German football. Germany national coach Joachim Löw has been rightfully been reliant on Miroslav Klose and Mario Gomez in the past, strikers who have led the nation to glory but now Germany can gleefully look to the future with Timo Werner leading the line. 8 international goals for his country in only 14 appearances should not be taken lightly. Also 21 goals in the German Bundesliga last season is another massive achievement after his feats the previous season matching the current tally. Werner also finished top scorer at the 2017 confederations cup with 3 goals and two assists.
Pace, trickery, composure in front of goal. Do not rule Werner out for the golden boot this summer in Russia.
Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, (Serbia)
Nicknamed ‘the Sergeant’, Milinkovic Savic has seen his stock rise after an impressive season with Italian giants Lazio.
It’s incredible that former Serbia coach Slavoljub Muslin decided to ignore the towering Lazio midfielder during the World Cup qualification – and that ultimately led to his controversial dismissal. Now new coach Mladen Krstajic has taken affection from SMS – as he is known – the Lazio midfielder will be one of the rising stars at this summers tournament. It’s no wonder Milinkovic-Savic has garnered much interest already this summer from the likes of Manchester United, Real Madrid and Barcelona. 11 league goals from midfield in Serie A last season was outstanding, not only that but his all round play – physically strong, imposing in the air, he is also elegant in possession setting the tempo and dictating it also. His price will go immensely higher once this summer is over.
Any success Serbia enjoy in Russia, SMS will be their saving grace – the nickname says it all.
Youri Tielemans, (Belgium)
Tielemans might not get much action in Russia but he is seen as the future of Belgian football.
Tielemans might go under the radar behind Belgium’s big names this summer with only 4 appearances made during qualifying but that has not stopped a variety of scouts analyzing his performance. Joining Monaco from Anderlecht last summer feels like the right move for Tielemans and with the departure of Fabinho to Liverpool, it is now time for Tielemans to make his mark next season for Monaco and a good performance in Russia when given the opportunity may just put him in Leonardo Jardim’s thoughts for a permanent starting berth next season.
Blessed with great passing range, vision and technical skills, Kevin De Bruyne, Lukaku, Hazard and co are not the only ones to watch out for in Belgium’s talent infested squad.
Lucas Torreira, (Uruguay)
Torreira has been the subject of a reported interest from Arsenal’s new coach Unai Emery.
Uruguay may have found themselves a diamond in midfield, no I don’t mean the formation I mean Sampdoria’s little terrier Lucas Torreira. He may stand at 5ft 6ins tall but he is a big presence in midfield. The 22-year-old has only missed two league games in two years since joining Sampdoria and his impressive and dominant performances in the Serie A have attracted much interest from Arsenal with talks already taken place for Torreira’s services, according to Sky Sources.
Giovanni Lo Celso, (Argentina)
Lo Celso was a permanent fixture in the PSG starting XI last season.
Could Lo Celso be the future of Argentinian football? The 22-year-old made an astonishing 47 appearances for PSG last season. The fact he is in the starting 11 week in week out considering the amount of superstars in the PSG squad says a whole lot about his quality. Much debate has arisen regarding the quality in Argentina’s midfield becoming an ongoing issue and the reason they struggle to impress despite their star studded squad. However, with upcoming stars such as Lo Celso, Argentina will not be relying on the old guard of Lucas Biglia and Mascherano for much longer.
Lo Celso is a star in the making.
Hirving Lozano, (Mexico)
Mexico’s Hirving Lozano celebrates his goal during their World Cup 2018 CONCACAF qualifiers football match against Honduras
19 goals and 11 assists in his first season in Europe for Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven proves the promise he showed at his Pachuca was no slouch. Hirving Lozano is brilliant to watch, fierce when the ball is at his feet, lightning quick and an impressive eye for goal despite his tender age. 19 for the season for a player still gradually improving has shown his rise to stardom is just around the corner.
Named one of FIFA’s young stars of stars of 2017, the 22-year-old has notched seven strikes in 27 caps for his country. Already Premier League clubs are circulating for his signature, and an impressive showing at this summers tournament might just get him his deserved move.
Julian Brandt, (Germany)
Eyebrows were raised when Brandt was named in the final 23 at the expense of Manchester City’s Leroy Sane.
The fact that Julian Brandt was included in the Germany squad instead of Manchester City’s Leroy Sane – who enjoyed a remarkable season in the Premier League – tells you all you need to know about Julian Brandt’s quality and how highly Germany coach Joachim Low rates him. Brandt scored 12 goals and laid on seven assists for Bayer Leverkusen last season.
Presnel Kimbempe, (France)
After an impressive debut full season under Unai Emery with PSG, Kimbempe finds himself on the plane to Russia.
Kimbempe like Lo Celso has had an incredible journey. The defender made his senior debut in 2014 but only became a full regular in the PSG side last season, amongst the world class talents of Thiago Silva and Marquinhos, Kimbempe has enjoyed a steady rise to the top, starting 27 games last season even surprisingly chosen ahead of captain Thiago Silva for the Last 16 second leg tie against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.
While this World Cup might come too soon for Kimbempe, he sure looks to have a bright future.
Piotr Zielinski, (Poland)
Zielinski has enjoyed an impressive campaign at Napoli.
Napoli midfielder Piotr Zielinski has drawn comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne from Poland’s head of football federation, he goes on to even controversially say that he probably has more quality than the Belgian. Believe of it what you want, Zielinski is a mightily impressive performer. Energetic, quick across the park, a domineering presence in midfield and the eye for a cutting-edge pass, no wonder Napoli were such a joy to watch in Serie A last season. Zielinski will be a very key figure for Poland in Russia.
Kasper Dolberg, (Denmark)
With Nicklas Bendtner ruled out, this may be Kasper Dolberg’s chance to shine on the world stage.
After an impressive breakout season for Ajax in 2016/17 as they reached the Europa League final – beaten by Manchester United – Kasper Dolberg has endured a rather frustrating year at the club blighted by injuries. However, the 20-year-old striker could still a make a massive impact with Nicklas Bendtner ruled out of action. Can Dolberg take his chance this summer?
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