Ruben Loftus-Cheek Ready to Finally Make His Mark On The World Stage

Gareth Southgate has named his squad for the 2018 World Cup in Russia this summer as England embark on a journey to right their wrongs in previous major tournaments. By the looks of things, Southgate has been pretty brave with his selection, omitting star names such as Wilshere, Joe Hart and Chris Smalling – players who were a certainty to make the 11 at the beginning of the season are now heading for an extended break this summer rather than making their mark on the World’s biggest international stage.

With noticeable omissions, Southgate otherwise sprung surprises and well-deserved call ups for Trent Alexander Arnold, Nick Pope and Ruben Loftus-Cheek. While the former two have impressed for their various clubs this season, it is the latter that has caught the eye going into the summers tournament.

Loftus-Cheek has impressed on loan at Crystal Palace this season.

Players such as Jack Wilshere and Jonjo Shelvey – both heavily tipped to make the plane to Russia – were omitted from Southgate’s squad leaving many to question where all the creativity and spark will come from in midfield as England kick off their World Cup campaign against Tunisia on June 18. Both players hold the ability to unlock defenses with their passing and vision; attributes which could be argued is England’s main problem from midfield – not being able to unlock or dissect a packed defence. Wilshere and Shelvey’s abilities will probably be missed this summer. However, in Ruben Loftus-Cheek, England could have the solution to their creative problems in midfield.

The Crystal Palace player on loan from Chelsea has enjoyed a fruitful season at Selhurst Park under manager Roy Hodgson. Deployed on the left of a four man midfield – albeit an unfamiliar position for him – the young England international was tasked with helping out both in defence as well as attack which he performed with great aplomb. Although his goal return for Palace may not attract the attention of some fans – 2 goals in 25 appearances – his role in the midfield was more than just scoring goals.

Loftus-Cheek’s ability to control the game, drive from midfield and beat his opponent was a vital tool used by Hodgson throughout the season as Palace successfully avoided relegation finishing 11th in the Premier League table. He was a key man for Palace which is shown in his return from injury which coincided with Palace’s significant six-game unbeaten run. His fine link-up play with Andros Townsend and Wilfried Zaha was key to much of Crystal Palace’s play, cutting in from the left-wing and dictating play and becoming involved in orchestrating various Palace attacks, his movement in turn allowed team-mate and left-back Patrick Van-Aanholt to bomb up the pitch which added another dimension to Palace’s attacking arsenal.

The role he played throughout Palace’s success this season is something Southgate felt he needed for this tournament hence his inclusion, and it may just be the platform Loftus-Cheek needs to ignite his career. Frozen out at Chelsea on numerous occasions will not have helped his development and glittering abilities. The departure of Nemanja Matic to rivals Manchester United last summer – a key man in Chelsea’s midfield the previous season – was the opportunity for Ruben Loftus-Cheek to make his presence known to Antonio Conte but instead the Chelsea coach invested heavily in Danny Drinkwater from Leicester and Tiemoue Bakayoko from Monaco – two signings who have failed to the mark their territory in the Chelsea team.

Chelsea’s transfer failures led many to question why the club did not have the faith in young fledgling talents such as Loftus-Cheek and Nathanial Chalobah who was sold to Watford, players who could have offered so much under Conte’s tutelage. Rather, it was much of the same story for Chelsea as they failed to place their trust in players coming through the academy ranks. That has not stopped Ruben Loftus-Cheek though, his move to Palace has proved a stroke of genius on his part and as a result he has been rewarded with a spot on England’s plane to Russia at the World Cup – his first major international tournament – and a chance to flaunt his talents on the world stage.

hi-res-94f663c361cc036ac017e915688556c7_crop_north — Loftus-Cheek’s first international cap against World Champions Germany reminded Southgate of his qualities.

Former England assistant coach who is now assistant at Crystal Palace, Ray Lewington expressed his views on Loftus-Cheek and states why he holds him in such high regard, speaking to talkSPORT, he says:

“I love him – I think he’s such a wonderful player. He’s a superstar in the making.”

“He possesses skills that I haven’t seen in too many English players. He’s wonderfully good in tight areas, he gets out, his acceleration is incredible”.

Lewington’s analysis is indeed interesting, not for a long time have we seen an England midfielder so physically built like Ruben Loftus-Cheek, so physically imposing on his opponents and having the ability to beat his man one-on-one, a trait we rarely associate with English footballers especially in the midfield areas. A perfect example was his international debuts against World champions Germany and Brazil – a brief reminder to many that Loftus-Cheek has what it takes against the elite. The bravery and trickery to approach matches of such magnitude would have really impressed Southgate and England fans alike.

Loftus Cheek’s technical attributes and his incredible knack of getting out of tight spots with that one piece of skill is a trait we cannot help admiring from Loftus-Cheek. The pace and acceleration he holds once he’s beaten his man is another characteristic which is mightily impressive considering his tall frame. A player of Loftus-Cheek’s talents just cannot go unnoticed. It would be criminal.

In Gareth Southgate, Loftus-Cheek has a coach who knows his abilities inside out having coached him at Under-21 level also, not only that but the faith and belief he has in players still developing and considered too young to make the step up will stand Loftus-Cheek in good stead even if he doesn’t get much opportunities in the tournament this summer. Never before have former coaches of England had as much belief in youth as Southgate has. Players such as Loftus-Cheek, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Marcus Rashford, Dele Alli, Jordan Pickford and Nick Pope can only look forward to the future if Southgate is in charge of England in the long haul.

In order to truly unmask his fledgling potential, Loftus-Cheek will need work on his final third attacking play and the ability to score goals from midfield. He has not shown great promise in that department as yet and is something he can really develop if he wants to be considered a great player or even break into the Chelsea like he has the ability to. If he can work on and change that over the course of the summer he may just find himself on the minds of those in charge at Chelsea – whether it will still be Antonio Conte at the helm remains to be seen. He played well coming on in the friendly against Nigeria at Wembley last week and should be starting against Costa Rica on Thursday, probably getting a 90 minute run-out. Perform well in that game, and Southgate will have headaches figuring out who best to choose from for his first 11 when England open up against Tunisia on June 18.

Nonetheless, there is no doubting Loftus-Cheek’s abilities and potential but the World Cup this summer could be the platform he needs to make his mark on the world stage.

Fabinho Signing a Statement of Intent From Liverpool

With the disappointment of the Champions League defeat to Real Madrid still lingering in the air around the club at Liverpool, they were still able to put a smile on fans faces with the impressive signing of Monaco midfielder Fabinho. Catching everyone awares as they purchased the defensive midfielder for a fee believed to be around £39million pounds, announced on Monday night.

The acquisition would have instantly boosted morale around Anfield following the pain of the Champions League final defeat on Saturday night, when a gulf in class in the midfield was clearly evident.

Welcome to #LFC, Fabinho. 🙌https://t.co/Xd7ylCfnqJ pic.twitter.com/nYbV243DY5

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) May 28, 2018

Yes certainly, they were up against the classy trio of Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Luka Modric who have played together for the best part of three seasons, however the midfield has clearly been identified as a weak point. Fans would have only imagined what would have been if Oxlade-Chamberlain had not been injured or even Philippe Coutinho had not departed Anfield when he did, maybe Liverpool would have put up more of a fight once Salah unfortunately went off injured but Klopp has addressed the deficiencies in midfield with the signing of Fabinho and Naby Keita due to arrive also.

If Liverpool’s apparent pursuit of Lyon’s playmaker Nabil Fekir proves successful then Liverpool could be looking at a formidable midfield – completely new, well balanced and a fluid axis for his preferred 4-3-3 formation next season. Before Liverpool fans can celebrate all that, some may not even know the qualities of Fabinho, one things for sure Klopp has made a clear statement of intent with this signing.

The Brazilian international, 24, will officially join the Champions League finalists on the July 1. A further £4m could be added in performance-related bonuses payments and his arrival is likely to be followed by the departure of German midfielder Emre Can to Juventus who’s contract runs out this summer.

Fabinho stated regarding the move; “This is something that I always wanted – this is a giant of a team. I am really excited.”

The Brazilian who emerged as one of the stars of the bright young Monaco team which set the French League and Europe alight capturing the title with ease from rivals Paris Saint Germain in the 2016/17 season. Players such as Kylian Mbappe, Bernardo Silva, Tiemoue Bakayoko and Benjamin Mendy and Thomas Lemar were part of that impressive squad plying their trade under the tutelage of Monaco coach Leonardo Jardim. Only the latter Thomas Lemar remains at the club after Fabinho’s departure. Previously linked with both Manchester clubs in the past – it was Jose Mourinho who granted Fabinho his top-flight debut at Real Madrid. There was also a reported last minute bid from Arsenal for Fabinho’s services which was turned down by the player.

But it is Liverpool who have secured his signature and it does seem a really good fit in foresight. Fabinho will be asked to hold the fort in front of the defence, a job he has done to such aplomb in Monaco. Having been compelled to introduce Adam Lallana and Emre Can from the bench against Real Madrid, Klopp will feel he has the numbers in abundance in the middle of the park with Fabinho, Keita, Henderson, Oxlade Chamberlain once he returns from injury, Giorgino Wijnaldum and James Milner; there will be plenty more quality to call upon especially when faced with difficult circumstances like in the final against Real Madrid.

Fabinho has filled transfer gossip columns for a number of seasons now, commonly described as a ball-winning midfielder of some repute, but it wasn’t always that way. Once a marauding right-back when he first joined the club from Real Madrid, it was not until the second part of the 2014/15 season that Leonardo Jardim deployed him as a defensive midfielder – which has later proved to be a masterstroke.

DGd3j9KXUAA5gU9 — Once a right-back, Fabinho has made the midfield berth his expertise.

A 0-0 home draw with Paris Saint-Germain in 2015 was the start of his trade in the position which then followed an impressive performance against Arsenal at the Emirates in their 3-1 victory, which was the game that every football fan stood up and took notice of Jardim’s youthful Monaco side and Fabinho was central to everything – the glue that held every jigsaw of the squad together – the perfect balance in the whole team.

A quick look at Fabinho’s physique and presence, you can see why Jardim instead deployed him in midfield, at six foot two he always looked too tall and rangy for your modern day full-back who tend to be more quick agile against opposing wingers.

Ligue 1 2017-18: Top five midfielders in duels

Midfielder	Duels (minimum 50)	Duels won	Duel success (%)
Tanguy N’Dombele	418	257	61.5
Fabinho	513	311	60.6
Yves Bissouma	259	155	59.9
Boubakary Soumare	69	41	59.4
Yann M’Vila	119	70	58.8

The Brazilian was a mainstay in Jardim’s 16/17 title winning team forming a formidable partnership with now-Chelsea player Tiemoue Bakayoko as the two deeper players in a 4-2-2-2 system. Bakayoko was seen as the more progressive of the two, rampaging from box-to-box while Fabinho held his position and orchestrated as the more static midfielder, sweeping up in front of his centre backs. His height and his style of play draws many comparisons with Steven Nzonzi of Sevilla or even that of Gilberto Silva.

Much of Fabinho’s best work is what you expect from a player blessed with his physical presence and abilities, and for one in his position. He ranked very highly in Ligue 1 last season for duel success, tackles won and aerial battles. Breaking up play, reading the game and screening his back four is Fabinho’s principal job but a lot of his on-the-ball qualities does regularly go unnoticed. Jardim’s Monaco is alike Klopp’s Liverpool in the way that they are so hell-bent on counter-attacking football which means getting the ball up to the attacking players with such speed and incisiveness once possession has been regained and Fabinho performs these qualities to great effect.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awHcYPpv8Hs

His days at right-back also meant he could carry the ball high-up the pitch, the license to roam which Jardim loves his full-backs to do, if you need examples just check out Benjamin Mendy and Djibril Sidibe in that 16/17 Monaco team. You only caught them defending when the team was up against it from a corner. Fabinho’s knowledge of that position can only add to Liverpool’s arsenal and grant them such versatility in the right-back position. An added bonus – Fabinho is also a great penalty taker, out of all the penalties he has taken for Monaco – being their assigned penalty taker – he only missed the once. Potent.

So where will Fabinho fit in next season for Klopp’s men?

As the deepest midfielder in Klopp’s favored 4-3-3 formation, the one protecting and screening the back four and even orchestrating attacks from deep. Klopp may even opt for two holding midfielders and the prospect of both Keita and Fabinho in the midfield is of course a tantalizing prospect for both the German coach and Liverpool – that energy and dynamism will be so key as Liverpool strengthen their aspirations to be considered on par with champions Manchester City. Jordan Henderson and James Milner have performed admirably in the holding midfield role, but now Liverpool hold a specialist in the area who can cover much more space. That is vital given the numbers Liverpool commit when both attacking and pressing. The style which has such high-rewards but is not without its risks, placing the defenders so high up the pitch doing their dirty work in isolation.

Fabinho has shown he can cope in these circumstances and his strong presence will allow Liverpool’s full-backs to press on without worrying about their defensive duties with both Fabinho and Keita having the legs to cover and to thwart the space opponents may try and utilize on the counter. While Fabinho may not add any creativity like a Lallana or a Oxlade-Chamberlain, he will add a lot more control and authority in possession. The reason Liverpool’s play seems such helter-skelter at times is that the midfield do not hold such possessiveness of the ball as they are supposed to. The presence of Fabinho will allow Liverpool to be more patient and potent in possession, picking their passes in the final third to much more effect when the opposing defence is defending deep.

Fabinho’s arrival shows Klopp will not allow the grass to grow under Liverpool’s feet as he tries to claim his first trophy with the club next season. One things for certain, the signing of Fabinho is massive statement of intent for Liverpool. Klopp and his men mean business.

My England World Cup 2018 Squad Picks

The build-up to England’s attempts to end 52 years of hurt and suffering without a major international trophy in Russia this coming summer is well and truly on.

Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions will walk out in Volgograd to face Tunisia in their opening game at the 2018 World Cup on June 18 with the hopes and expectations of a whole nation weighing heavily on their shoulders. Will this be the year England finally give the whole country something to shout about rather than the despair and agony we get on a regular basis.

This week Gareth Southgate and coaches of all the other World Cup nations have to submit a provisional squad of 35, which has to be cut to 23 by June 4. Ahead of Southgate announcing his official squad on Wednesday, here is my squad picks to board the plane to Russia this summer.

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My England Squad Link:

Goalkeepers:

Joe Hart

Say all you want about Joe Hart, Gareth Southgate is a huge fan of his and the West Ham goalkeeper is a shoe in to be one of the first names on the plane for this summers tournament. Despite his recent mistakes and the criticism placed on him, Hart is still capable of some World Class saves plus his leadership and communications makes him one of Gareth Southgate’s most trusted players in his squad. Don’t be surprised to see Hart with the armband when England start against Tunisia.

Jordan Pickford

Pickford is Hart’s closest contender for the no.1 goalkeeper shirt.

Arguably Everton’s best player this season, if he had better defenders in front of him, Pickford will probably look much better than he already his. His knack for unbelievable saves and his ability to play out from the back is a characteristic Gareth Southgate endears to. Probably Joe Hart’s strongest contender for the England no. 1 jersey.

Nick Pope

Nobody wants to be last choice when it comes to goalkeepers in major international tournaments, you don’t even get a look in but if you take a peak at Burnley goalkeeper Nick Pope’s story, you’d be surprised as to how he is making the plane to Russia. Considered as Burnley’s no.2 when the season started, an injury to Tom Heaton has allowed Nick Pope to come in and put in some wonderful performances in between the Burnley sticks. He could even be challenging Heaton for the number 1 jersey when the new season starts in August. Permitting he does make the squad, Pope should be delighted at how far he’s come, representing England at a major tournament should be a highlight in his career so far.

Defenders:

Kyle Walker

Many criticized Walker’s move to Man City, but he is responded with his first major trophy in English football.

Easily England’s best full back and another man worthy of Gareth Southgate’s trust in amongst the whole squad. Not only can he be useful at right full-back but the win against against the Netherlands two months ago showed that Walker can be useful at centre back if Gareth Southgate chooses to go with a back three in Russia.

Kieran Trippier

Kyle Walker’s understudy turned Tottenham’s Mr Reliable at full-back. A worthy replacement.

Mauricio Pochettino’s Mr reliable Kieran Trippier is a worthy replacement for the departed Kyle Walker. The former Burnley man has established himself in the Tottenham defence and has put in some stern performances this season for the North London club. If Southgate opts for Kyle Walker at centre back in a 3 man defence, don’t be surprised to see him deployed at wing-back. His deliveries are a force to be reckoned with.

Harry Maguire

Another player who’s rise to prominence has been mightily impressive, so much so that Manchester City were interested in his services in the January window. Maguire has been a mainstay in the Leicester City defence this season, couped up for a bargain from Sheffield United last summer. His ability to carry the ball from the back and his remarkably tall frame makes him a shoe-in to start England’s opening fixture against Tunisia. I am a huge fan of his.

Chris Smalling

DNOmBgNXUAEU9aV — Chris Smalling’s leadership and determination has made him a mainstay in Mourinho’s United defence.

Say what you want about Chris Smalling as well as Joe Hart, do not be surprised if he is rewarded with the captains armband in Russia. Smalling has been remarkable for Mourinho and Manchester United this season, no reason why the Special One picks him every week. I had my doubts about him also but not only has he become assured and matured at the back for United but his recent knack of popping up with vital goals this season has endeared him to the United faithful – finally.

John Stones

Stones may have lost his place in the City team but his abilities is strongly admired by Southgate.

I am a huge fan of this guy. John Stones is a player I can’t help but admire, his ability to start attacks from the back, his bravery at keeping possession in his own penalty box and defensive qualities makes him a definite in my England squad. If there was ever a brave and noble defender in the squad its John Stones. He may have lost his place in the City line-up as the season developed but Stones is well liked by Guardiola, and his characteristics is mainly the reason why.

Eric Dier

Whether he plays in the middle or at the back, you know Eric Dier will put his all in. Another player Mauricio Pochettino places so much trust in. The only thing you can probably argue about Dier is what his best position is and that is what Southgate will be eager to address before England kick off on June 18.

Phil Jones

Mourinho’s trust in Jones has been rewarded with brilliant performances in defence for United.

You may disagree with this choice but Phil Jones has made remarkable improvements under Jose Mourinho this season. Jones will literally put his body on the line for the cause and that is why Mourinho trusts him so much. A worthy addition to Southgate’s defensive choices.

Danny Rose

Tottenham Hotspur v Crystal Palace - Premier League — Danny Rose has enhanced his position as England’s no.1 left back this season.

Like him or love him, Danny Rose is England’s best left back choice. There is no doubt about that, and he will be one of England’s key outlets in attack this summer in Russia. Not only has he been a force in attack for Tottenham but he has impressively refined his defensive abilities and is more assured when under pressure. England’s number 1 left-back for years to come.

Ryan Bertrand

Southampton have had a poor season in the Premier League this campaign, only just beating the drop before their last fixture against Manchester City but one player who has performed on a consistent basis for the club is left-back Ryan Bertrand who not only has been a good performer but he has also led impressively since Mark Hughes was appointed the new manager. A worthy understudy to Danny Rose.

Midfielders:

Jack Wilshere

Still a huge fan of Wilshere and that’s why I feel he has to be on the plane in Russia. It looks as though he has overcome his injury troubles and has become a regular in the Arsenal line-up this season. His ability to carry the ball from midfield is a very underrated characteristic – one England really need if they are to progress in this summers World Cup. You can’t argue with Wilshere’s inclusion.

Jordan Henderson

Whenever I bring up Jordan Henderson, a lot of people aren’t convinced and I am shocked at that. Henderson has enjoyed probably his best season in a Liverpool shirt, and when he isn’t in the team, you can see the difference, the balance he brings in between the defence and attack is what Klopp admires in Henderson. He will be a key player for Southgate in Russia, no doubt about it.

Dele Alli

A lot people are hesitating over whether Dele Alli should start England’s first game against Tunisia and I somewhat agree but there is no doubting what Alli brings to the table. His confidence, tenacity and the ability to pop up at the right place at the right time is what marks him out apart from the rest. Alli has grown considerably this season despite some minor blips. You just can’t rule him out this summer.

Jesse Lingard

lingard - 8a2ce6894bc9264378faadd1f9b5681e_crop_exact — Jesse Lingard has enjoyed a very fruitful season at Old Trafford.

What a season Jesse Lingard has had under Mourinho. Many doubted his talents before the Portuguese coach stepped in and Lingard has rewarded Mourinho’s faith and trust in him. Ferguson did once say Jesse Lingard will be a late bloomer and that prophecy has truly come to fruition this season. Gareth Southgate is also a huge fan of his underrated abilities, so don’t be surprised to see Lingard start over Dele Alli when England kick-off against Tunisia.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek

Loftus-Cheek has blossomed under Roy Hodgson this season for Crystal Palace.

Every squad has to have one or two wildcards and Ruben Loftus-Cheek is one of mine. A player I can’t help admiring. His impressive showing when given his England day-view against World champions Germany which rewarded him with the Man-of-the-match award has certainly put his abilities and talents on the map again. Still only 22, it feels like he has been around for a long time – well, he has. A recent injury picked up as the season drew to a close looked to have ended his World Cup hopes but he has come back fighting, ending the season on a high once again. I would personally beg Southgate to put him on the plane if I had the chance, a serious talent.

Jonjo Shelvey

Make of this choice what you will but Jonjo Shelvey is another wildcard of mine. He maybe a trouble maker but his ability is what England need this summer and it is one none of the other midfielders in this squad are blessed with – the ability to pick a pass out of nowhere. Shelvey has that in abundance. If you analyse his performances this season, you’ll see why I have picked him for my England squad. You need to take a gamble sometimes.

Raheem Sterling

hi-res-e50a98d92555d94fe7068155f6a52301_crop_north — Raheem Sterling has made massive improvements under Guardiola this season.

Raheem Sterling has been amazing under Guardiola this season. Each and every department of his game which needed some work has been well fine tuned by Guardiola and Southgate will hopefully enjoy the fruits of Guardiola’s labour this summer. Sterling will be a formidable attacking outlet for England in Russia. A stellar showing for City this season which has garnered 22 goals throughout the whole of the campaign, a remarkable return for a player who has received much criticism in the past. He has answered those critics with aplomb, and long may it continue.

Strikers:

Marcus Rashford

The future of English football Marcus Rashford will hopefully have a World Cup to remember this summer. The youngster has enjoyed three glorious seasons in the red colours of Manchester United and although he has not been used as much as he would have expected at the start of the season, the striker has matured considerably under Mourinho. His tactical discipline has been a key attribute he has picked up this season, being deployed in various positions in which Mourinho has instructed him to, and to devastating effect. Much of England’s hopes will hinge on the form of the young Marcus Rashford. No pressure.

Danny Welbeck

I was unsure of this choice because Danny Welbeck can be so frustrating at times, but I can’t deny the fact that whenever he is called upon for England, he somehow turns up, and it may not be because of his goal scoring or assists but it his ability to disrupt the flow of a defence with his constant running and harassing of defenders, a useful trait alongside Jamie Vardy, Jesse Lingard and Raheem Sterling in which Southgate can harness to great effect this summer.

Jamie Vardy

Jamie Vardy may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but trust me he is your cup of water on a barren spell without any liquid. He is that crucial to Leicester and he has shown that once again for yet another season. Check out his goal scoring exploits for the last few seasons and you’d be mightily impressed. His emphatic penalties can be useful too also – if you know what I mean. Typical England eh?

Harry Kane

Is there an end to this guys goal scoring talents. Absolutely remarkable. He may not have one the Golden Boot for the third time in a row this season – beaten by the brilliant Mo Salah of Liverpool – but yet, he still delivers when Tottenham need him. Harry Kane has now notched over 20 goals in a season 4 times in a row now. Remember those talks going around saying he was a one season wonder once upon a time? Yeah, that’s long been forgotten. This man means business. All our nations hopes and ambitions this summer cannot come to life without the one and only Harry Kane. Go on Son!

Barcelona the Dominant force in Spain, But Change is Needed to Turn Around European Fortunes.

Barcelona secured the La Liga title in convincing style last week with a 4-2 victory over Deportivo. Lionel Messi was once again instrumental as his side captured their 7th League title in 10 seasons. However, despite Barcelona’s dominance this season, much change and improvement is required if Barca are to keep hold of their title and right their wrongs on the European front next season.

Despite their disappointment at the hands of Roma a last month in their Champions League Quarter-final defeat, Barcelona have enjoyed a much more fruitful season on the domestic front under new manager Ernesto Valverde. The former Athletic Bilbao coach was tasked with the difficult job of steadying a ship which was dramatically sinking under predecessor Luis Enrique before he departed.

Ernesto-Valverde-869158 — Ernesto Valverde has exceeded expectations in his first season at the helm.

Ernesto Valverde has certainly done just that, with his team on track to become the only Spanish side to go through an entire league season unbeaten and having won the Copa Del Rey with a magnificent performance in the 5-0 thrashing of Sevilla. It has been an outstanding season for the Catalan giants considering the fact they were clouded with so much uncertainty at the start of the season with various discussions and debates on whether Barcelona can once again topple El Clasico rivals Real Madrid.

The departure of Brazilian superstar Neymar to PSG for a world record fee left a gaping hole in a squad that was already potentially in danger of fading away after Real Madrid’s dominance the previous campaign. The departure of Neymar left many fans and neutrals shocked and surprised, the thought of a star studded name joining French giants Paris Saint Germain must have left a sour taste within the Barca hierarchy. Questions were asked as to how the club could replace Neymar.

The signings of Ousmane Dembele and Philippe Coutinho were signings believed to compensate for the loss of such a big star in Neymar, although both signings are for the future of the club, there was still a feeling around the club that they could do more if they are to be dominant in Europe once again.

download — The signing of Coutinho – albeit a replacement for Neymar – is relatively seen as one for the future.

Despite their domestic success this season, there is still an aura around the club that the season was a missed opportunity to make their stamp in Europe under the new manager, the defeat to Roma was their 3rd quarter-final elimination in a row, squandering a 4-1 first leg advantage with an implosion that leading midfielder Sergio Busquets described as his worst experience in his whole career. The 3-0 loss in Rome was no freak accident, the Italian were dominant throughout the whole tie let alone the second-leg. Despite Barca’s emphatic first-leg lead, Roma were efficient and dominant in their performance – the 4-1 scoreline flattered both sides.

Barcelona have not won a knockout Champions League game away from home since beating Arsenal in 2016, and the defeat by Roma was very similar to the previous year when they were heavily beaten by both Paris Saint-Germain (4-0) and Juventus (3-0).

To prevent the same story next season, much change is required.

The Departure of Andres Iniesta – Who will step up?

Who will fill the void of the departing legend Andres Iniesta.

This summer will see the impending departure of Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta as he embarks on a new chapter in his career reportedly set to be in China, ending his glorious and successful stay at the Nou Camp after nearly 700 appearances and 32 trophies won.

Iniesta’s departure will leave a gaping hole in the side – although the signings of Dembele and Coutinho were not only seen as replacements for Neymar but were made as a preparation for the potential departure of Iniesta. The huge gap left should at least be filled by those two signings, who cost nearly £300m combined but did not feature in the defeat to Roma with Coutinho cup-tied and Dembele left on the bench. Though, it remains to be seen whether their presence in the match would have made much of an impact.

Nonetheless, Coutinho has made a rather impressive start to life at Barcelona chipping in with some vital contributions such as his assist for Suarez in the Copa Del Rey victory over Sevilla underlining his positive star to life at the club.

However, the big question is where the Brazilian will fit in into the clubs system in the long run. In his 17 games for the club so far, the former Liverpool attacker has lined up on either flank and in a central midfield role. There is an obvious role for him in that department of course and also an obvious need for the gap left by Iniesta to be filled and Coutinho certainly fits the bill. There is much more room for improvement in his game if he is to become a more focal point in the centre of midfield though, especially on the defensive side of his game which means much of his attacking play would have to be subdued. Now that there is no Iniesta to call upon to assist him in the role, Valverde has a massive job on his hands to teach Coutinho to be more efficient in both the attack and defence.

By contrast, Dembele has endured a mixed start to his Barcelona career, which has not been helped by his three month injury lay with a thigh problem just after the season started. The 20-year-old French international has shown flashes of brilliance, notably a fine strike against Chelsea in the second leg of their round of 16 tie in the Champions League, but often looks out of place in Valverde’s rigid structure which has led him to committing many defensive mistakes.

DO66NqcW0AA9OCi — Ousmane Dembele has had a mixed start to life at the club so far.

Certainly, Dembele is still young and with much to learn but under the right coaching and management, there is no doubt the French hopeful can turn into someone of Neymar’s quality – if not better. The rawness and lack of defensive awareness to his game was the reason Valverde did not trust him to start against Roma, and the forward must work on his mental toughness and defensive awareness if he is to have any chance of becoming the top player many have touted him to be.

Coutinho and Dembele did link up nicely for one of their 4 goals against Deportivo to clinch the title last week, with the Frenchman providing a neat pass for the Brazilian to clinically dispatch the opener, Barcelona will be hoping and praying that combination becomes a regular theme next season as they start their process without the legendary Andres Iniesta.

Potential Arrival of Antoine Griezmann and more?

With Coutinho and Dembele expected to improve next season, there is still an aura around the Catalan club that they need to improve the depth of the squad to mount a serious challenge in Europe next season.

The Champions League loss to Roma was largely blamed on the lack of depth in the squad and the over-reliance on players such as Sergio Busquets, Ter Stegen, Samuel Umtiti, Pique and Lionel Messi, with players becoming fatigued as the season closes. However, Barcelona wouldn’t have picked up so many points if it hadn’t been for those players which reflects the golf in class between the first choices and the players on the bench.

To address the lack of depth, Barcelona have reportedly agreed a deal to sign Atletico Madrid superstar Antoine Griezmann by paying his 100m euro (£87.7,m) release cause. The signing of Griezmann would add another dimension to Valverde’s attack with Coutinho, Dembele and the French attacker all taking the weight off Messi and Suarez’s shoulders. It’s not only in attack Barcelona need to invest, but the midfield does a little light. Sky Sports La Liga expert Guillem Balague stating that the current crop is Barcelona’s ‘worst squad for a decade’ and certain additions this summer will certainly address the lack of depth in Valverde’s squad. Highly-rated Brazilian midfielder Arthur is set to arrive at the Camp Nou in a (£26m) deal from Brazilian outfit Gremio.

Though, before Barcelona can get their additions in, they will reportedly have to sell some players first with various reports suggesting that Valverde could rid of up to seven players in his squad. Players such as Andre Gomes, Lucas Digne, Denis Suarez, Alex Vidal and Paco Alcacer – despite their individual quality – have failed to set their careers at the Camp Nou alight and it will be reasonable for Barcelona to relieve them of their duties this summer.

Most interestingly, is the lack of players coming through the La Masia academy famed for producing a number of quality players over the years such as Iniesta, Gerard Pique, Messi and Xavi and with only one graduate of the academy in the squad (Sergi Roberto) at this moment, the academy has certainly dried up in recent years. Though, the clubs Under-19s did win the UEFA Youth League this season beating both Manchester City and Chelsea on their way to the final. Hopes are high for some of the players in that squad and the B team with Carles Alena hoping to breakthrough next season and Under 19 players such as ball playing midfielder Riqui Puig and striker Abel Ruiz who will soon provide much hope for the future.

Lionel Messi Reincarnated

Barcelona’s saving grace this season – despite their lack of depth – is the never ending impressive performances from none other than their talisman Lionel Messi and it can even be argued that his feat in inspiring a relatively average squad to an easily captured La Liga title is probably the one of the greatest feats of his career. Against Deportivo the other week, Messi became the first player to reach 30 or more goals in seven different La Liga campaigns, yet another record the little Argentinian magician had broken.

Whereas Messi was complemented by Sergio Busquests, Xavi and Andres Iniesta in his younger days, the new role Valverde has placed him as allowed to master all those individual roles into one, being a really effective and masterful playmaker as well as the squads main goal threat. If there is any shoulder you’d want your whole squad emphasis its Messi’s and he has executed it to devastating effect this season. Although Messi doesn’t have the same pace as he used to, he is still as effect roaming around the pitch seeking the opportunity to pounce, the Argentinian has developed into more of a complete player under Valverde, and credit has to go to the Spanish coach who has mastered Messi’s new role perfectly, becoming the club’s reference point in attack.

Messi in all competitions 2017-18
Games played	Goals	Assists	Shot conversion rate	Chances created	Shots on target
52	44	18	15.4	116	132

Interestingly, this is the first season Messi has been employed in the number 10 role or even the ‘Enganche’ – a traditional number 10 instructed to sit behind the teams main striker. In the past, he has been deployed as a false nine or even a right-sided winger but Valverde has played just behind Suarez giving him the license to play deeper and instigate play like Xavi once did in his own time at the club.

Messi’s re-incarnation as a creative playmaker and striker at the same time is clearly shown by his stats this season leading in La Liga in goals (33), assists (12) and chances created.

With Messi playing so well in his new role, and showing no signs of deteriorating, Barcelona are always going to be in with a chance but much reinforcements and change to the club structure this summer if the club harbors any ambition of being dominant in Europe once again. With the World Cup looming, much work will need to be done behind the scenes before the tournament gets under way.

Cristiano Ronaldo; The Man With the Footballing World at His Feet.

Incredible. Astonishing. Mesmerising. Extraordinary. There is simply not enough words to describe the brilliance and genius of one Cristiano Ronaldo. Tuesday night against Juventus in the Champions League quarter-final was another night in which Ronaldo came up trumps and proved every footballing fan who is pro-Messi that he still has much more left in the tank, and most of all that he should be considered the best player in the world.

Two goals, the second a delightful over-head kick which left Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon with no chance as Real Madrid took a giant step towards yet another Champions League semi-final and a possible third European title in a roll with an emphatic 3-0 victory in Turin.

Into the veterinary age of 33, and Cristiano Ronaldo still continues to amaze us. The Portuguese forward has served up so many magical moments on a plate over the last decade and more but Tuesday’s performance showed he is the man Real Madrid turn to when they need him most, and turn up he did. His genius of a second has all but secured Real Madrid’s passage to the last 4, barring an inspired miracle by Juventus. The goal was so impressive even the home crowd could not do anything but applaud the genius that graced their stadium once again.

Once Ronaldo reached the ball head height, all the Juve defenders could do was watch and behold as the world stopped for a moment and experienced the amazement and awe of another Cristiano Ronaldo showpiece. Heads were drawn to Ronaldo’s brilliance like they’d experienced the second coming of Jesus Christ.

The King knows 👑 pic.twitter.com/lxLdetqN2t

— B/R Football (@brfootball) April 3, 2018

It was the moment the footballing world was at the feet of the extraordinary Portuguese superstar.

Fans who plainly see Lionel Messi as the best player in the world must have had second thoughts once Ronaldo netted that stunner. It was a joy to behold. Cristiano Ronaldo and Champions League knockout football is the perfect marriage: they complement each other so beautifully like bacon and eggs, like ketchup and chips or even cheese and wine. It’s the perfect combination that brings out the best in both, delivering the most scintillating moments on the grandest European stage, its where the best moments are made and Ronaldo never fails to impress.

To do that in one of the most iconic atmospheres in European history against such players as iconic as Buffon, Chiellini and co was almost unheard of, absurd and plain heinous. Zinedine Zidane orchestrated the perfect performance against a side he once graced as a player in his own genius days. From the brilliance of Keylor Navas – an underrated component in the side – to the sheer composure and elegance of Spanish playmaker Isco. Real Madrid were a class apart on a night where the Spanish giants always prove just too strong for their opponents. Despite their failures domestically, Zidane has managed to pull the cat out of the bag in Europe, and has done so for the last two seasons.

But lets not take anything away from the awesomeness of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Have watched Ronaldo's goal about 25 times this morning. Just over here googling "limits in the science of human movement"

— Sinead O'Carroll (@SineadOCarroll) April 4, 2018

He is quite simply in the goal-scoring form of his life, yes, of his life. Despite his brilliant scoring record for the Spanish giants, its crazy to say he is in actual fact in the goal-scoring form of his illustrious career. The Portuguese great has found the net in recent months at an extraordinary rate. 23 goals in his last 12 appearances just speaks volumes at the form Ronaldo is in right now. Reverse that statistic and its what most players would be happy with, but Ronaldo isn’t most players. Ronaldo constantly defies the laws of football physics – I mean literally as shown last night – if there is such a term. He is out of this world, a player who consistently beleaguers belief.

In a game of such importance and magnitude stacked with top players both young and old, Ronaldo took centre stage yet again. Taking the shine of these European nights away from Ronaldo is like trying to steal a toy from a toddler – almost difficult to achieve. The first he scored inside three minutes just tells you what you need to know about this great player. The illusive movement to elude the Juventus defenders was so key; Chiellini, one of the best defenders ever to grace the game just could not live with the jinky movement from Ronaldo. A pivot here and a classy outstretched leg there.

376AA95200000578-0-image-a-50_1471872569083 — Is there an end to Cristiano Ronaldo’s brilliance?

Having spent most of career bamboozling defenders with the ball at his feet, he instead has the audacity to attempt it without – and successfully. They say with age comes wisdom and Ronaldo has certainly done just that in terms of adapting his game, he is no longer that marauding winger you enjoyed watching at Old Trafford for Manchester United or over the last few years at Madrid, he has now adapted his game to that legendary poacher – a striker who is always at the right place at the right time.

He has become football’s poacher supreme and much more, elevating the art of the penalty area like players such as Ruud Van Nistelrooy – a player Ronaldo played with during his young days at United – the Dutchman was a genius in the box, like a fox prowling at every opportunity and Ronaldo has effortlessly taken a leaf out of Van Nistelrooy’s book.

I can’t get over that Ronaldo overhead kick. It gets better every time you watch it. The athleticism let alone the technique is extraordinary

— James Ducker (@TelegraphDucker) April 3, 2018

The contrast with fellow number 9 and former Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuian was so vast. The Argentinian unable to beat Keylor Navas from point blank range at the other end, had rather a night to forget. Nonetheless, Higuian is a world-class striker. But he is not Ronaldo. The one-time magician of dribbles is now arguably the games most lethal finisher, scoring in each of his last 10 Champions League games. Mightily Impressive.

That was not all for Ronaldo’s night, he then assisted Marcelo’s goal as Real Madrid added the icing on the cake and put the gloss over a complete performance for the 11-time Champions League winners. It was atypical of the reformed Ronaldo. 32 goals of the last 37 have been directly scored by himself, with only 5 being assist for others. Call it what you want, Cristiano Ronaldo is self-made.

Yet again, the 50-goal mark for the season is in his sights and credit must go to Zinedine Zidane for the way he has deployed Ronaldo so sparingly this season. Gone are the days of Ronaldo playing almost every game both domestically and on the European front, now the Portuguese is rather unleashed when it matters most. Zidane has helped to convince Ronaldo that there is a sense in picking his battles to protect the body for bigger challenges.

1951560-41026685-2560-1440 — The Portuguese maestro.

He will hope to add to his impressive total when Real Madrid host Atletico Madrid on Sunday, but La Liga is not his primary focus right now. With Juventus all but dispatched, Ronaldo and co are almost a semi-final away from another Champions League final showpiece. A chance to make it a hat-trick of victories under the tutelage of Zidane. The French coach also familiar with the prestigious title in his own playing days. Yeah, there might be teams such as Bayern Munich, Manchester City and Barcelona – all dominating their respective leagues – but when it matters most you cannot count out Real Madrid, its like they step to yet another gear when the famous and illustrious Champions League music hits. It’s where Ronaldo is at his sparkling best at the grandest stage of them all.

We can truly and proudly say, we lived in a time of the one and only Cristiano Ronaldo.

Roberto Firmino Deserves Just As Much Praise as Mo Salah.

Mohammed Salah is the talk of the town right now. Arguably the player of the season so far alongside Harry Kane and Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne. A former outcast at Stamford Bridge in his Chelsea hay days, deemed not good enough by Jose Mourinho, the Egyptian was farmed out to Italy. A few years on, Mourinho might be thinking how on earth did Salah become this good, 25 Premier League goals this season so far with 10 games is some feat.

Salah has had a magnificent season, and must go down as one of the greatest signings in the Premier League in recent years. Even if he is ultimately unable to overhaul Tottenham’s Harry Kane for the BPL top scorer gong, he is a shoe-in candidate to claim the Premier League player of the season – though City’s majestic playmaker Kevin De Bruyne will have a lot to say about that.

Sure, Salah’s been excellent for Liverpool this season, but there’s one man who’s been just as good – even if he isn’t scoring as much – that man is the Brazilian samba star Roberto Firmino.

Roberto Firmino has been just as important as Mo Salah this season for Jurgen Klopp.

Firmino has not been able to match Salah for goals this season, but the Brazilian has been equally important as Mo Salah for Jurgen Klopp throughout the current campaign. Indeed, the Brazilian is perhaps the only Liverpool player who can realistically challenge Mo Salah for the Liverpool player of the season gong, particularly if he carries on with this sort of form. The striker has scored 13 league goals this season, seven in the Europe’s most prestigious the Champions League, as well as assisting a further three goals and six in the Premier League – no other striker has more than the Brazilian.

Not only are his personal stats impressive – his contributions to both the conversion and creation of chances – but its his ability and willingness to press from the front is essential to the way Liverpool play their football. Hunting down lost causes, hustling and harrying defenders when he’s lost possession is one of the reasons why Jurgen Klopp has handed the Brazilian so much praise in recent months.

“Mo Salah: world class, but not every day,” Jurgen Klopp stated in a Newspaper interview. “Sadio Mane: world class, but not every day. Roberto Firmino: world class, pretty much every day.”

untitled 2 — Klopp holds Roberto Firmino in such high regard.

You can tell by that comment on the Brazilian that Klopp rates Firmino even more than Mo Salah despite the Egyptian’s formidable form in front of goal. And rightly so, to be frank, Salah won’t be scoring as much if it weren’t for Firmino, his false-9 role as Liverpool’s main frontman gives him a number of responsibilities which involves adding certain aspects to his game – not only his creative and scoring abilities – most importantly, the ability to create space, to roam about the pitch with freedom and to press high as soon as Liverpool lose possession.

On the evidence of the last couple of seasons, Firmino has adhered to those responsibilities with consummate ease. No wonder Daniel Sturridge has been on the periphery in the Liverpool squad, being farmed out to relegation threatened West Brom in January. That is down to the form and brilliance of Firmino. The Brazilian is also capable of the unthinkable and outrageous at times. The 5-0 drubbing of FC Porto in the first leg of their Champions League tie, he was at the centre of everything good about Liverpool on the night, scoring his 21st goal of the season and making another with a sumptuous back-heel pass. An even more astonishing flick to set up Mo Salah again in the game against Southampton. What about his no-look goal against West Ham at Anfield? Is there anything this guy cannot do?

Klopp even further praised Firmino after Liverpool’s victory over Huddersfield in January, stating: “Roberto delivers, delivers and delivers. He doesn’t score all the time, he is not always brilliant, but if he is not brilliant then he works like a horse. It’s very important you have this kind of stability there.”

This is the effect the Brazillian has on his people. He is absolutely adored by the Liverpool faithful. His celebrations are surely a sight to behold, he can no longer be placed in the ‘under-rated’ or ‘unsung hero’ brackets. Though, Liverpool fans have known about Firmino’s ability for some time – but only within the last two seasons has his talent really become mainstream.

Roberto Firmino has fully endeared himself to the Anfield faithful.

The improvement and evolution of his game has been clearly evident after a slow start to life in England following his move from German outfit Hoffenheim in 2015. Signed by Brendan Rodgers who didn’t even know how best to deploy the player, marooning him on the right wing as Liverpool were defeated 3-1 by Manchester United at Old Trafford in an anonymous display. Soon after though, Rodgers was replaced by Jurgen Klopp with the German already having an idea of Firmino’s ability after facing him on numerous occasions during his days of coaching Dortmund. For Firmino, this was a manna from heaven – the perfect relationship, the kind to truly allow his ability and potential to manifest. Soon after Klopp’s appointment, the German fully utilised him centrally, though the goals did not flow, Firmino quickly won over the fans with his workhorse like mentality.

Also, it is not until this current campaign that Firmino has added goals and assists to his – less tangible – but similarly valuable – qualities of harassing defenders and working relentlessly for the team. Even so this season, Firmino’s brilliance has been overshadowed by Salah’s sensational form and also the uncertainty surrounding his now departed fellow countryman Philippe Coutinho. Firmino’s improved output since the start of the season has been stark, hitting the 20-goal mark mid February. More broadly, only Cristiano Ronaldo has notched more Champions League goals than the Brazilian this term (7), while the Brazilian’s combined output of 34 goals and assists is one of the highest amongst the Barclays Premier League based players. Quite outstanding.

Firmino has gradually won over the Kop by his charming attacking sprite and glow-in-the-dark teeth. No doubt it, Firmino had the ‘va va voom’ about his game, or the ‘joie de vivre’, truly reflected and translated by a tattoo on his left arm stating “love life”.

However, the absence of goals in his first few seasons led to much clamour erupting around the issue of Klopp signing an out-an-out striker to further Liverpool’s ambitions for the season. Klopp dismissed such talk, keeping faith with the Brazillian and Firmino has duly repaid the faith shown in him. Back in July, Klopp stated that Firmino is “the best player without scoring with how well he reads the game for the benefit of others. Outstanding!” Of the Premier League’s forwards, Firmino has made the most sprints and made the second most number of tackles reflecting his value to Klopp’s gengenpressing style. Don’t be surprised to see him start at the tip of Brazil’s attack this summer at the World Cup in Russia, many will feel he has deserved his starting spot for arguably the World’s most affluent footballing nation. A massive pressure on his shoulders.

Nevertheless, Roberto Firmino is not quite at the level of former star strikers who have graced the colours of Anfield such as Luis Suarez, Fernando Torres, Michael Owen etc. but having made the transition from cult hero to pop idol, the leap to superstardom is certainly not far away for the Brazillian. As the season draws to a close, Klopp will need every inch of energy left in Firmino in order to finish the season on a high. Mo Salah isn’t the only one making his mark at Anfield this season.

Roberto Firmino…Remember the name.

Super Sunday Preview and Predictions

Another massive weekend of Premier League football is upon us, but that is not the only thing tantalising our appetites for this weekend as Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal come up against Pep Guardiola’s high-flyers Manchester City at Wembley Stadium in the Carabao Cup Final. This Sunday’s fixtures proves to be an exciting and thrilling encounter as Manchester United entertain last seasons Premier League champions Chelsea at Old Trafford before the final at Wembley – a battle which could prove vital come the end of the season regarding the race for the Top 4 and to decide who will finish as runners up to potential champions Manchester City.

Here are my prediction for Sundays enthralling encounters:

Manchester United vs Chelsea, 2pm

skysports-paul-pogba-manchester-united-football-champions-league_4152176 — Jose Mourinho and Manchester United face a Paul Pogba conundrum ahead of Sunday’s clash with Chelsea.

Both teams come into this game not in the best form and neither club can afford to lose this spectacle, so don’t be surprised if the game ends becoming a very tight encounter which eventually ends in a draw. You wouldn’t put it past both managers renowned for their tactical efficiency and ability to execute a rigid game plan in order to avoid defeat.

Nonetheless, if United win this, they can almost certainly gain the ascendency to finish runners up behind Manchester City which will represent a massive improvement on last seasons finish outside the Champions League places. Sure, Mourinho wouldn’t be happy finishing second best to rivals City but the Portuguese coach will be happy with the way his team has progressed since he joined. Right now, United find themselves in a dilemma ahead of Sunday’s clash with regards to the future of Paul Pogba, will Mourinho start the midfielder against Chelsea after praising him for his conduct midweek? The Frenchman has not been himself in recent matches, can he regain his form when it matters on Sunday?

Chelsea, on the other hand also have problems of their own. Tuesday’s impressive draw with La Liga leaders Barcelona surely would have lifted the spirits in the camp despite Lionel Messi’s equaliser which absolutely Conte’s game plan out of the window. However, there were instances in that match where Chelsea could have really hurt Messi and co. So can Conte’s men repeat that performance at Old Trafford? Will Hazard be targeted by Mourinho once again like last seasons fixture?

Man Utd vs Chelsea, February 25, 2018, 2:00pm, Live on

These questions will surely be answered as these two Premier League giants lock horns once again, although I am going for a score draw in this one. A fair result?

Score Prediction: Manchester United 1-1 Chelsea

Arsenal vs Manchester City, 4:30pm

DGdMc6NWsAIxqBl — Mesut Ozil and Kevin De Bruyne lock horns once again in Sundays Wembley final.

The first piece of silverware is up for grabs on Sunday, but who will come out on top?

To put it simply, both managers Arsene Wenger and Pep Guardiola are in need of a victory in this one. Just like the above fixture, neither coaches can ill-afford to lose. Pep on one hand is desperate to have his hands on his first trophy at City, and what better way to topple Arsene Wenger before topping his other rivals to the Premier League title come May. Will Sunday be the day Manchester City’s domination in English football under Pep Guardiola truly begin?

Bar some miraculous miracle, City are certain to lift the Premier League title, and potentially add to that the Carabao Cup, claiming it from Manchester rivals United – a feat that will be very sweet to the lips of the great Spanish coach. Lets be honest, City have been a class apart all season and Guardiola has spent this second season at the Etihad setting the bar for fellow managers to replicate with the kind of beautiful, eye-catching football that has been on show throughout this season.

Last week’s shock defeat to Wigan will be one Guardiola will hope his team will learn from. They are heavy favourites to capture the Carabao trophy this Sunday although Wenger will have a lot to say about that as he embarks on a tough journey to right Arsenal’s wrongs this season and victory over City will almost set Wenger and his side on a path to redemption – capturing a trophy that has eluded him in his illustrious coaching career. You could argue Wenger needs this victory more than Guardiola as Arsenal’s season is in danger of fading away, but with a difficult tie against AC Milan confirmed midweek for the next round of the Europa League, this may be Arsenal’s only chance of silverware this season.

Arsenal vs Man City, February 25, 2018, 3:30pm, Live on

You can’t back against Wenger delivering for the club in this one, considering he does have a fantastic record at Wembley in cup finals. However, you just don’t know who will come up trumps in this one.

I am going for Wenger to upset the odds here, correct me if I’m wrong…

Score Prediction: Arsenal 2-1 Manchester City

Crystal Palace vs Tottenham, 12:00pm

Just because this one is last on the list does not take away the importance of the fixture, though it is first on the schedule at midday.

C Palace vs Tottenham, February 25, 2018, 11:30am, Live on

Both teams could really do with the victory, though it may be very difficult for Crystal Palace with their star man Wilfried Zaha out of action and a lack of quality on the sidelines to call up on. Hodgson’s progression with the club has been marred with key injuries in key areas, but you wouldn’t back against Palace in front of their own fans putting in a solid performance.

Tottenham on the other hand, are pushing for a strong finish to the campaign with the top 4 to fight for along with Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United. The Champions League still to contend with – a Wembley second leg against the mighty Juventus coming up on the horizon, Pochettino will want his side to maintain their strong focus for the rest of the season.

I always tell fellow football fans, when you got a certain Harry Kane in your team, you are always in with a chance. The Premier League’s top scorer once again has been a revelation for the third season in a row, in front of goal. There is no sign of the England frontman slowing down or losing form. Throw in Christian Eriksen, Dele Alli, Song Heung-Min, the addition of speedster Lucas Moura from Paris Saint-Germain and the steady rise of Moussa Dembele again, Tottenham are sure to finish the season very soundly.

Palace are my local side, but I can’t see past Tottenham capturing the three points in this one.

Score Prediction: Crystal Palace 1-3 Tottenham

Riyad Mahrez’ Actions Damaging His Lofty Ambitions.

Leicester City’s Riyad Mahrez currently is a broken man, and who could blame him? When a dream move away to a bigger club has been halted, not once but twice, you would argue the Algerian international has a right to feel aggrieved at Leicester’s decision to block his request at a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Mahrez’ grievance at the club has led him to deliberately miss two days of training, which leads us to question whether Mahrez is going about this the right way. The 26-year-old handed in another transfer request once he learned of Manchester City’s interest during the end of January’s window, with the Premier League leaders placing two Deadline Day bids – the last of those understood to be a player-plus-cash offer worth an estimated £60million.

It has been reported by Sky Sports News, that the player has been left depressed by Leicester’s decision not to accept the incoming bids from Manchester City, the club valuing Mahrez at a figure of around £80m. According to various sources, Leicester were keen to pursue Patrick Roberts – on loan at Celtic – as part of the deal to allow Mahrez to leave the King Power but when that failed to materialise, negotiations became a sticking point with City not willing to improve on their £60million bid.

Mahrez’ dream of top-level has been put on hold. The player won the Premier League title two years ago, and wants more success. He thinks he has gone as far as he can with his current club and desperately wants to seek pastures new, and a move to City certainly would have won him his second Premier league winners medal with the Etihad outfit running away with the league. At an age where he is coming towards his prime years, his chance at more glory on the grand stage is one cannot miss out on, especially considering his unerring ability on the pitch.

The immediate addition of Mahrez would have added more salt to the wounds of their rivals, especially after United’s capture of Alexis Sanchez from Arsenal. Even their efforts in the Transfer market may not be enough to catch City with just over 10 games of the season still to play.

But with the injury to Leroy Sane and Gabriel Jesus, Pep Guardiola thought a move for Mahrez will more than make up for their absence – with both players representing key factors in the clubs strong pursuit of the Premier League title. Two injuries he thinks may not grant City the Premier League title sooner than he would like.

Though Leicester’s resistance to sell their star man has not only hampered the ambitions of Guardiola to strengthen his squad but also the ambitions of a player who feels he has given everything to Leicester City, especially in that amazing fairy tale season capturing the Premier League title – a feat that may never be repeated again. Along with the scoring feats of Jamie Vardy, it was Mahrez’ contributions, moments of brilliance that allowed Leicester the opportunity to make history. It must have been a huge surprise to the club that they were able to keep Mahrez after such a fantastic season two years ago.

Nonetheless, Leicester can have no complaints with the way Mahrez has conducted himself until now after his efforts in the summer – going the extreme lengths finding himself in Paris – to secure that dream move away. But with eight goals and eight assists in 24 appearances this season, he has been working towards securing himself a much better future, something he does not see at the King Power. Who can blame him? He famously aided the club in their Premier League title win shortly before placing them on the big stage in the Champions League the next season.

Mahrez has achieved all he can at the club, you can almost forgive him for aggressively pursuing a much bigger opportunity. Though, missing training and sulking may not get you that dream move after all. Managers from those “giant” clubs may change their stance about pursuing a player who could potentially cause damage to their dressing room atmosphere. Who would blame Guardiola for pulling out of a potential deal in the summer after Mahrez’ recent actions?

As seen in the video above, Mahrez on his day is arguably one of the best forwards in the Premier League, it makes you wonder why he is expressing his frustrations at the club in this manner. Why can’t Mahrez just make up with the Leicester hierarchy and get back to playing at his best? Not for the benefit of Leicester but for himself, the Algerian winger can’t secure a move away if he is not playing. Which top manager will tout his services in the summer when he’s in this strop?

The least Mahrez can do for himself is play for personal pride, get back to your best for the rest of the season and then, just maybe, he may get his long awaited dream move. However, Leicester now have a job on their hands getting back on good terms with their main man.

What We Learned From Liverpool vs Manchester City.

Manchester City’s 22-game unbeaten run in the Premier League came to an emphatic end as Liverpool edged Pep Guardiola’s side in a 7 goal thriller at Anfield. In what was one of the great games of the season so far, Liverpool boosted their hopes of a top 4 finish showing the rest of the Premier League how to come up trumps against Manchester City. A great spectacle and another great advert of what the Premier League has been about this season.

Here are my takes on what was an enthralling and entertaining spectacle:

Coutinho who? Oxlade-Chamberlain impresses when it matters.

Not only were Liverpool impressive against Premier League leaders Manchester City, but it was all started by Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain who impressed on Klopp’s first game without the departed Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona. A fantastic drilled finish into the bottom corner after a mazy run kicked off what was an amazing game followed by a wonderful splitting through ball for Roberto Firmino to run onto and chip the onrushing Ederson.

If this performance from Oxlade-Chamberlain is anything to go by, Jurgen Klopp will have no worries replacing Coutinho’s brilliance. With some fine tuning and regular game time under his belt, the Ox will be an ideal replacement for Brazillian playmaker.

His finest game in a Liverpool shirt so far.

Andrew Robertson’s classy and gutsy performance.

One of the finest full-back performances we’ve experienced this season. Andrew Robertson was a class above the rest, not only is he well known for his wonderful deliveries but this evidence against City, he was at his brilliant all round best. The pressing, interceptions, tackling most impressively having the in-form Raheem Sterling in his pocket represents a heroic performance when Liverpool needed it most. There was one instance in which the left-back ran the length of the pitch from his own position to press Nicholas Otamendi in City’s penalty area.

If this performance doesn’t adhere him to the Anfield faithful, I don’t know what will.

Simply Fantastic.

Manchester City unable to withstand the press.

Much was made of Manchester City’s unbeaten run and whether they can match Arsenal’s Invincibles but today, they were outplayed, out thought and outclassed as Liverpool ran them rugged from the first minute. The pressing was too much for Pep Guardiola’s side to handle. I lost of count of how many times City lost possession in their own half due to Liverpool’s aggression. If this is the way to match City then Liverpool have given the perfect example. They may win the title in the end, but if any of Manchester United, Chelsea and Tottenham want to hamper their stride towards the Premier League crown, try take a leaf out of Jurgen Klopp’s blueprint.

Despite City’s late flurry, you would have thought once Klopp’s men raced into a two goal lead within 5 minutes that Liverpool always had this game in control. City were vulnerable throughout, has the unstoppable bully got blood on his nose?

City to push for Alexis Sanchez?

No doubt about it, Manchester City’s attack is one of the finest in Europe if not the world but their current pursuit of Arsenal’s wantaway superstar Alexis Sanchez just shows that Pep Guardiola believes his fantastic attack needs another dimension, and what a way to add to it if City do get their man.

However, according to reports, cross-city rivals Manchester United are confident of hijacking the deal to take Sanchez to Old Trafford. City are unwilling to pay the amount Arsenal want and would rather get him on the free in the summer once his contract expires. The threat of the Chilean instead heading to the red-half of Manchester may just get under Pep’s skin a little.

Why not pay over the odds for a world-class player wanting a fresh start elsewhere, and secure the Premier League title quicker than expected?

The Anfield Curse

City have now failed to win at Anfield in fourteen attempts dating back to 2003, a whole fifteen years ago. They may have been high and mighty all season so far but once they stepped in front of the Anfield crowd, it seemed as though they froze into their shells as Liverpool pressed and dominated from the first minute.

The Anfield curse has halted Manchester City once again.

Author: Anthony Onifade