Wednesday night saw Manchester City kick off their Champions League group stage campaign with a resounding and comfortable 4-0 victory over Dutch champions Feyenoord at the De Kuip stadium. Two John Stones goals either side of Aguero and Gabriel Jesus strikes saw City record their biggest away victory in their Champions League history.

After their 5-0 thumping of Liverpool at the Etihad last weekend, it seems as though Pep Guardiola has got his side playing the way he wants them. Free-flowing, silky, attractive football, the kind reminiscent of his Barcelona glory days and they certainly showed in these two victories.

Now in his second season in England, it will take some time before City reach the levels of the beautiful football Barcelona between 2009 – 2012, the year of dominance under Guardiola. However, days such as Wednesday’s Champions League thumping and the victory over Liverpool can only help the idea that City are heading in the right direction under Guardiola’s guidance.

The Spanish coaches ideologies and philosophies inherited from the cathedral of his one time mentor and footballing great Johan Cruyff, a legend who founded the idea of ‘Total Football’, a model Guardiola has been following all his managerial footballing life.

What Guardiola is trying to build at City is that ‘Total Football’ aura and brand, where players such as the attacking outlets are given the freedom to express. These aren’t just any players, but individuals blessed with great technical skill, an eye for goal, the eye for the beautiful pass and above all, a total understanding of the game. David Silva, Bernardo Silva, Yaya Toure, Sergio Aguero, Gabriel Jesus, Fernandinho, Benjamin Mendy to name a fair few, but one man central to Guardiola’s ideology and plans, one man who just about completes the puzzle, the Belgian architect Kevin De Bruyne – Guardiola’s on-field lieutenant.

Guardiola was used as the same outlet for Cruyff in his playing days, just as Xavi and Andres Iniesta were for him at Barcelona, and also the evergreen Philip Lahm at Bayern Munich. De Bruyne is currently engrossed with the same responsibility as those footballing greats, whether he can reach those same heights is certainly up to him but he is going the right way about it with these kind of performances. He was the shining light in an otherwise disappointing but progressive campaign last season for Pep Guardiola and his City side.

In his post-match interview after the Liverpool game, while collecting his Man-of-the-Match award, the Belgian was talking about needing to “play smart” , “find gaps” and exploit Liverpool’s highline. You could tell, Guardiola has had an impact on the Belgian, the sort of impact where De Bruyne is Guardiola’s brains on field. The Spaniard progressively puppeteering De Bruyne to do as he desires on the football pitch.

The match at the Etihad being marred by the incident between Sadio Mane and Ederson drew the attention away from the midfield masterclass we experienced from Kevin De Bruyne. It was a performance so in tune with what his manager wants that if you looked and analysed closely, its possible to make out that Guardiola was definitely pulling the strings from the sidelines.

The architect of City’s first two goals against Liverpool, supplying Gabriel Jesus and Sergio Aguero – the second being a perfect and sumptuous weighted through ball for Aguero which cut through Liverpool’s sorry defence, like something out of the parting of the Red Sea biblically delivered by Moses. Like something out of a gospel choir in a cathedral, caressingly soothing the souls of the congregation. City fans would have been graciously saved by the sight of Kevin De Bruyne’s deliveries. The Belgian killed the ball dead, pulled out his protractor and played a wonderful dissecting ball into Aguero’s path.

As far it gets from the tiki-taka or the total football, these are quick forward passes Guardiola loves where his players successfully force the issue. As always the case with Kevin De Bruyne, the weight at which the pass was measured was so mesmerising. If the Belgian was a butcher, he wouldn’t need scales.

To think, he couldn’t even make the grade under Jose Mourinho at Chelsea, he was then catastrophically sold to Wolfsburg. Though – since then -the Belgian has grown and matured into a wonderful footballer, picking up the ability to take the game by the scruff of the neck, the ability to control games at his own pace. Those characteristics were exactly on show in City’s two victories this past week. His cross for John Stones second against Feyenoord was also telling. A carbon copy of his cross for Jesus’s goal against Liverpool, a David Beckham-esque whipped delivery which Sky Sports Pundit Gary Neville was totally in awe of.

It is now 40 assists since he made the move to England from Wolfsburg for all of £51million in August 2015. According to Squawka, the 56 he has recorded since the 2013/14 season is more than any other player across Europe’s top five leagues over the same period. Simply outstanding.

Though, for him to be considered amongst the world’s best he would need to improve his goal return – as perhaps is the case with United’s Paul Pogba. Six and seven goals over the past two Premier League seasons is below what the Belgian is fully capable of . In fairness, he did hit the woodwork an astonishing nine times last season, more than any other player. Few are better in the world of football at keeping things simple than Kevin De Bruyne, no wonder why his performances go under the radar at times.

The flashiest thing he’s probably ever done is buy a king sized Twix. Even then, he would have probably thought it be better to save the other finger till later in the week. While his assists over the past week have been brilliant to watch, it is perhaps his innate and subconscious ability to find space when needed.

The Belgian international is not just one of the most creative players in the Premier League, he is also the most economical. He only runs when required. Acutely aware in a country raised on a culture where not running is deemed a crime, he has soon worked out that it would be easier to pick pockets by standing still.

Though in a more advanced role, Thomas Muller of Bayern Munich is another master at finding the only free deckchair on a really packed seaside. The technical term is the Raumdeuter – an interpreter of space.

Like many of the understudies of Johan Cruyff, Pep Guardiola has moulded the Total Football formula in his own image. When you don’t have the ball, you make the pitch as small as possible by pressing high up the pitch. And when you win it back, you do the opposite by making it as big as possible trying to pick out spaces.

At times, against Liverpool and Feyenoord, it was Total Football at its finest. Finding the space is one thing, but knowing what to do with it is another thing entirely. De Bruyne has that ability to see things that other players cannot, forever scanning and darting between opponents and team-mates. The perfect quarter-back at times, sitting deep and interpreting those exposed spaces. Think of it like this, he’s like a Google maps satellite. Technically speaking, he has all the attributes to hit almost every target possible.

The best way to control space is to have an on-field architect, someone to slow things down when play gets too hectic, then speed things up when the time is right. In terms of dictating the rhythm of a game – just like Xavi or Phillip Lahm in their own time – their are few better right now than Kevin De Bruyne. Against Liverpool, he was physically and technically on a different playing level to his Liverpool counterparts.

Whether Guardiola can succeed in his second season at the helm could hinge upon the form of his on-field lieutenant Kevin De Bruyne – along with David Silva. What would work in the Spaniard’s favour is the squad depth he has at his disposal, which means players cannot afford an off day, with Bernardo Silva, Yaya Toure, and Ilkay Gundogan, a trident of ridiculous talent, waiting in the wings.

 

Nonetheless, City will be shoe in favourites with United and Chelsea for the Premier league title but part of any potential success City could enjoy this season whether it be in the Champions League or domestically hinges on the form of Kevin De Bruyne: The Belgian architect central to Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City project.

This weekend marks the return of the Barclays Premier League. After a hectic transfer window which saw some of the biggest transfer deals in history, its time to get back to business domestically , the first round of fixtures after the summer window – a chance to fully see new signings in action this coming weekend.

The fourth round of matches throws up another set of tantalising spectacles to keep a look out for, here are my score predictions for this coming weekends round games:

Manchester City vs. Liverpool, (12:30pm)

The first match of the weekend is definitely an exciting one. A match involving two teams who will almost certainly be in the hunt for the title come the climax of the season; Manchester City and Liverpool. Both clubs under the guidance of two of the best coaches in the game. What a way to start the weekend.

Manchester City v Liverpool has thrown up some classic encounters over the past few years, last years draw at the Etihad stadium was a perfect example, with both teams throwing everything they had during that 90 minutes – an all or nothing game – which in turn could only end in a draw. Ever since Klopp joined Liverpool in 2015, they have never lost a game to City, the Reds have won 3 of their 4 games. Although, City have only just lost one of their last 23 games at the Etihad stadium.

Liverpool return to the Etihad stadium on Saturday in good form, and all looks set up for another classic encounter as the old Bundesliga coaches renew their rivalry. With Liverpool looking frightening in attack so far this season and City’s undeniable quality, there will be goals in this one, so I am going for a high-scoring draw.

Prediction: Manchester City 2-2 Liverpool

 

Arsenal vs. Bournemouth, (3:00pm)

What is going on at Arsenal? It’s the same old story at the Emirates with another torrid start to the Premier League season. And with questions arising whether we will still see the best of Alexis Sanchez after his failed deadline day move to Manchester City, it remains to be seen. Wenger desperately needs his team on his side though, as they have looked nothing short of shambolic so far, especially in opening weekend win over Leicester City, a game which saw some real struggles in defence for Arsenal.

Will Alexis be involved from the off against Bournemouth? A certain question that a lot of fans and pundits alike will asking in the lead up to the game. Arsenal are in desperate need of a win, and Saturday’s game against Eddie Howe’s Bournemouth will not provide and easy ride. The south coast club were unlucky in their defeat to Man City as their quality pulled them through in the end.

Bournemouth will certainly be up for this one, but I can’t see anything other than an Arsenal victory. However, a win for Wenger will not unmask the problems that are present for Arsenal.

Prediction: Arsenal 3-1 Bournemouth

 

Brighton & Hove Albion vs. West Bromwich Albion, (3:00pm)

Brighton would have probably looked at this fixture and thought, this is the one they can win. They haven’t had it easy so far in the league with games against Manchester City at home and away games at Leicester and Watford. Brighton coach Chris Houghton has stressed the importance of his side having a good home record if they are to have any chance of becoming a stable Premier League club for years to come.

Though, West Brom will not be easy pickings for Brighton. Tony Pulis has created a stable and steady atmosphere at the Hawthorns, and the question remains, can he take the club to the next level this season?

Brighton just can’t find goals so far this season, so I am going for West Brom to place more misery on Chris Houghton and his Brighton team.

Prediction: Brighton & Hove Albion 1-2 West Bromwich Albion

 

Everton vs. Tottenham Hotspur, (3:00pm)

What a game we could have on our hands here.

You don’t know what you’re going to get with Everton. They were fantastic against Manchester City at the Etihad, only to then put in a disappointing display against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, they played so poorly Chelsea couldn’t be bothered to score more goals. Koeman’s target this season is to snuff out those inconsistencies this season, and this big game against Tottenham is a good way to start. However, it could be difficult simply due to the fact that Everton have not replaced Romelu Lukaku’s goals. Rooney and Sandro Ramirez are good additions, but it is unlikely they will score the goals to fire Everton to break into the ‘Top 6’.

Tottenham would have been disappointed with the draw against Burnley, to concede so late in a game was so unlike Pochettino’s men. He will desperately be urging his side to put things right this weekend to fully kick start their season. Let’s be honest, we haven’t seen the best of Tottenham yet. Could we see the beginning of things to come against Everton. I certainly think so.

Prediction: Everton 1-2 Tottenham Hotspur

 

Leicester City vs Chelsea, (3:00pm)

Another intriguing game.

Leicester City were unlucky against Manchester United at Old Trafford last time out but Mourinho’s men had enough quality in the end to snatch a comfortable win. Without a doubt, Craig Shakespeare has restored the confidence and belief back into the team, plus they have been able to keep star man Riyad Mahrez who has been a real professional so far this season as he pursued a move away from the club this summer. He finds himself still at the King Power, so how much will that have an effect on him?

And how will Leicester cope without Drinkwater who joined their opponents on deadline day? Will their be hostility in the air when Drinkwater makes his bow?

We’ll see.

I’m going for the Champions to edge this one, although I could be wrong. Chelsea have picked themselves up after their disappointing opening day defeat to Burnley, and with Morata and Willian on form, and Eden Hazard back to fitness too I expect them to grab a sneaky win here at the King Power.

Prediction: Leicester City 1-2 Chelsea

 

Southampton vs Watford, (3:00pm)

Watford under Marco Silva could look a real asset to watch out for this summer. Silva has really recruited well. Richarlison, Nathaniel Chalobah, Andre Gray and the addition of Will Hughes could be the players to take the club to the next level and Marco Silva is key to their success. They’ve started really well this season, and really impressed against Liverpool and also ripping Bournemouth to shreds in an impressive win.

Southampton on the other hand have proved a difficult side this season, and Pellegrino has already proven some of his managerial qualities. Can he get Virgil Van Dijk back playing and on his side? That would be a huge boost for both Pellegrino and the club.

Nonetheless, this will be a tight battle. I’m going for a score draw here.

Prediction: Southampton 1-1 Watford

 

Stoke City vs Manchester United, (5:30pm)

After three wins from three, and no goals conceded, United find themselves top the table before the international break and this upcoming game against Stoke could prove to be their first real test of the season. United haven’t tasted victory at the Britannia since 2013 and will be looking to overcome their demons in Saturday’s evening kick-off. Mourinho’s men do look a much better side than last season, and with the addition of Matic, their attacking players have real sense of comfort and authority at this moment as their wins over West Ham and Swansea showed but, Stoke will not be rolled over that easy.

Mark Hughes once again has created a steady ship at Stoke, and after their impressive victory against Arsenal, they will have their tails up but I feel United’s quality will tell in the end. Lukaku, Martial, Pogba and Mkhitaryan all find themselves in scintillating form. Throw in Marcus Rashford and Juan Mata, and United may just have too much.

Prediction: Stoke 1-3 Manchester United

 

Burnley vs Crystal Palace, Sunday, (1:30pm)

 

Crystal Palace find themselves in a real heap of trouble, with Frank De Boer trying to implement a new style on the club. Yes, they have struggled and De Boer must be given time. However, patience is no longer a valuable trait in the Barclays Premier League and the Dutch coach needs a first victory, and fast or else he will lose the fans and the dressing room. The players are seriously lacking in confidence, and ideas. Is De Boer changing too much too fast?

Burnley are a very difficult side at home, and will prove a difficult test for Crystal Palace. Lets be honest, Sean Dyche’s side have started the season better than expected, a victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge and a draw against Tottenham at Wembley? Dyche couldn’t have asked for more from his players. An unimpressive loss to West Brom at home would have really disappointed them and they will want to put that right this weekend

I feel Burnley would have too much here.

Prediction: Burnley 2-0 Crystal Palace

 

Swansea City vs Newcastle United, Sunday, (4:00pm)

How Swansea pulled of the signing of Renato Sanches, went to show the connections Paul Clement has. After formerly working with the Portuguese wonderkid while in his time at Bayern Munich, he was able to convince long time friend and Bayern manager Carlo Ancelotti that Swansea City was the perfect environment for Sanches to continue his development away from the Bundesliga giants. What a signing this could be for Clement and his side, throw in the return of Wilfried Bony and Swansea will be delighted with their deadline day business.

If Clement can reinvigorate the form of both men, Swansea could be in for a very good season in the Premier League. Losing Gylfi Sigurdsson wouldn’t be so bad after all.

Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez will not be happy with his transfer dealings this summer, and he has constantly made his feelings known over the past two months. Now that the window is closed, Benitez must now make do with his side, but if his CV is anything to go by. Newcastle will do fine this season, but I have a sneaky feeling Swansea will nick this.

Prediction: Swansea 2-1 Newcastle

 

 

West Ham vs Huddersfield, Monday, (8:00pm)

 

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic is treading on thin ice. The Croatian is in dire need of results as he finds his team at the wrong end of the table after 3 games. His position has already been under review by the clubs owners and anything other than a win against Huddersfield could be the final nail in the coffin. Monday’s game against high flying new boys Huddersfield will be Bilic’s biggest game so far, and he needs a win.

Huddersfield will be no pushovers, and will be full of confidence going into this one. Manager David Wagner has really instilled an early belief and  But I’m going to go for West Ham here, their quality may shine through in the end.

Prediction: West Ham 2-1 Huddersfield

The summer signings of Romelu Lukaku, Victor Lindelof and Nemanja Matic further highlighted the meticulousness and reliability of Jose Mourinho’s transfer strategy, not only in his decorated career but in his short spell at Manchester United. All three signings have addressed the need in which United tried to compensate for last season. Certainly, Zlatan Ibrahimovic was the main catalyst in most of United’s success last season but despite that, it felt like something was missing.

Zlatan’s big frame and presence was a huge factor up front for United last season, but he did not have the pace and movement required to fully punish teams. At times last season, United’s build-up play and impetus in the final third was at times laboured and forced. Jose Mourinho addressed that need with the instant signing of Romelu Lukaku who has already proved an instant hit at Old Trafford, with 4 goals in 3 games in all competitions (inc Super Cup against Real Madrid). The Belgian’s size, mobility, movement, pace and power is perfect for Mourinho and the type of forward United have been missing for large parts after Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013. Finally United have a forward they can look forward to experience for the now and the future with the striker still at the tender age of 24.

The signing of Nemanja Matic addressed the need of a midfield enforcer, a man that can hold his own in front of the defence, screening opposition play and also allowing Paul Pogba the liberty to roam. Matic certainly fit the bill, at the expense of Chelsea becoming light in their own midfield department – a gift to Mourinho that could become Chelsea’s undoing as they aim to defend their Premier League crown. As well as Lukaku, Matic has made the position his own, stamping his authority in both the opening wins against West Ham and Swansea in addition to an impressive display in United’s defeat to Real Madrid in the Super Cup. Ander Herrera was a suitable option in the role last season but Mourinho felt the Spaniard wasn’t enough, and Matic could prove to be United’s most important signing of the summer. Throw in defender Victor Lindelof who signed from Portuguese champions Benfica. A player who hasn’t had the same impact as both Lukaku and Matic who have Premier League experience, but Mourinho would not have invested in the Swedish international if he wasn’t good enough. As the season grows on, we could see the quality Lindelof holds as Eric Bailly did last season.

The signings of Eric Bailly, Paul Pogba last season was the start of something new in Mourinho’s tenure, but one man who hasn’t garnered as much praise as Matic, Lukaku, Pogba so far this season – it certainly wouldn’t bother him – is the silent Armenian magician Henrikh Mkhitaryan.

As Romelu Lukaku celebrated in front of the away fans, with a Christ the Redeemer-like celebration as he scored United’s second goal at the Liberty Stadium, the Belgian pointed to Mkhitaryan and ushered him over – a mere act taking the glory away from himself and praising the creator – the quiet Armenian humbly ambled over to accept his portion of praise. The Manchester United away end inside the Liberty Stadium were rampant, as they had experienced football which captivated the imagination of the Ferguson era. Liberation is a wonderful. Mourinho pointed out in his Post match press conference, stating he allowed his ‘horses to run free’.

Mkhitaryan’s pass for Lukaku’s goal, the second in a 4-0 rout over Swansea City, more ruthless than emphatic, was something of the sublime – like a knife slowly but ruthlessly cutting through a ham sandwich. He did the same for Anthony Martial against West Ham in United’s opening match at Old Trafford, with a similar first time ball of scalpel-like precision.

Few are better at laying on the eye of the needle pass, killing teams with a five to 10 yard ball than Henrikh Mkhitaryan. In fact, United have not only Mkhitaryan in the technical department, but also Juan Mata. Both players are blessed with such great vision and the ability to provide for their team-mates. Romelu Lukaku had barely put him down when Paul Pogba became the next consumer of Mkhitaryan’s creation in the final third. Another rapid and lightening quick counter attack culminated in the French superstar being slid in to net with such precision and stylishness as he cutely chipped the Swansea goalkeeper, a goal as deft and soft as a Mother’s kiss. It wasn’t only the finish that left fans drooling but the run and subtle pass by Mkhitaryan which was a sight to behold, a sight all United fans will be desperately wanting to see throughout the season.

Regardless of whichever variant of Lukaku, Martial and Marcus Rashford on the pitch at any given time, United have it in the armoury to leave defenders gasping for breath. Though they can drift in and out go games like students do subconsciously in a lecture hall, Mkhitaryan and Juan Mata are the perfect players to complement the pace and power of Martial, Rashford, Pogba and Lukaku – the perfect players to join the dots in the spaces vacated between the lines.

The freedom in which United’s attacking players can strut their stuff could be something to behold, all of them should owe Nemanja Matic a trip to the pub on a regular basis. The Serbian is the reason why United can finally have the liberty and license to cause havoc in the attacking third, all credit should go to Jose Mourinho for that masterstroke of a purchase. That massive presence was missing last season, and with fans calling out for a more youthful signing in Monaco’s Fabinho, little did they know that Mourinho had other plans, a player he trusts and a player who has been part of a Premier League title winning team for 2 of the past 3 seasons. Coincidence?

Whether tucking in behind Romelu Lukaku or moving infield from the right wing, Mkhitaryan already this season looks as though he’s got the bit between his teeth and he has no intention of relinquishing it which makes us question when Jesse Lingard will finally have a run in the starting line-up. Mkhitaryan means business. 5 assists in three games is no joke, 4 more than his entire total last season.

Paul Pogba and Romelu Lukaku have emerged as twin totems of a new Manchester United that is slowly but surely starting to look like the old one. The win against Swansea City was the first time in 110 years United have opened a league campaign with wins by four or more goals in their first two matches. The athleticism, dynamism the pair provide is a given, but just as important, if not more so, is the brand of enthusiasm they have injected into the dressing room that had felt stale for quite a long while.

Making light of Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s absence was hardly going to be easy for Lukaku. While it would be silly to write of the Swede’s 28-goal haul last season, after just a couple of games we have seen United play a more exciting brand of football than at any point last season. The Swede’s charisma and aura was the tonic for a transitional phase and maybe his return to the club after injury might just be, again, the extra push and injection that Mourinho and his side need to take their game up a notch.

Paul Clement after the game said his side played to United’s strengths trying to chase a goal while 2-0 down, which in turn allowed United to counter-attack time and time again. Attempting to apply that to the style last season at United was like trying to play hide-and-seek in an empty room. It just did not work.

While Pogba and Lukaku could grab the headlines, it should not be understated just how key a role the more underrated Mkhitaryan could play in United’s renaissance. He has been involved in four of United’s 8 goals already this season. He ended last season with 11 goals in all competition, including the second goal in the 2-0 Europa League triumph over Ajax in Stockholm, he was arguably the competitions most influential player. But too often last season, the Armenian floated like a butterfly and stung like one too. Perhaps that assessment is unfair given his goal of the season scorpion kick against Sunderland on Boxing day, a further reminder of his quality and imagination.

Jose Mourinho stated in his press conference that Mkhitaryan’s form has been down to the relationship between the player and Mourinho himself:

“I think he understands me and to be honest, I understand him. Because in the beginning of the (last) season, if he understands me better, he would have started better.

“But we spent time, working together. I know him well, he knows me well and the second part of the season was good for him, and I think this season is going to be even better.”

On Mkhitaryan’s full debut against Manchester City last September, he looked so overwhelmed, trying to do too much like a fish out of a water. Somehow contriving to lose the ball 12 times despite being completely anonymous, he was hooked off at the break but spawned a tough love routine from Jose Mourinho, he did not return to the fold until December.

The Armenian is a huge talent, no doubt about that, but one Mourinho would have expected more from given his £26.3million for him on the back of an astonishing season with Dortmund in which he was involved in a combined total of 55 goals. One more than United scored themselves last season. Mkhitaryan registered 4 goals and a single assist. He is notoriously a slow starter at new clubs, he only exploded in to life at Dortmund in his second season. At Shakhtar Donetsk, it was the final of three seasons that he also showed his true quality. Lets be honest, the Premier League is a different kettle of fish, taking a while getting used to his new surroundings was always going to be the case.

23 goals and 32 assists in his final season at Dortmund is of course, an astonishing feat. Even Mourinho isn’t that demanding in terms of statistics, but if the Portuguese coach can irk out something a little close to that feat then United could be looking strong candidates come May for not only the Premier League but in the Champions League also.

Mkhitaryan will be central to any success United have this season, as he was last season popping up with vital goals in the Europa League.

If history is anything to go by, Mkhitaryan is in for massive and industrious second season at Old Trafford. In a team full of superstars and characters, Henrikh Mkhitaryan is the Brains of the whole operation.

 

 

After years of empty speculation and rumours, Arsenal have finally got their man. Alexandre Lacazette has completed his £52million move from French outfit Lyon to the Emirates Stadium. The French hotshot has signed a five-year deal after Arsenal agreed a club-record fee with Lyon which could rise to the figure of £52M over the course of his contract.

Lacazette had initially had a verbal agreement with Atletico Madrid this summer but any potential move collapsed as Madrid were handed a transfer ban which was handed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Arsenal’s opening bid of £39m was rejected last month, but Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas had confirmed that a deal was likely to be completed after the sides compromised on a fee that would eclipse the £42.5m Arsenal shelled out to sign Mesut Ozil in 2013.

Lacazette did say towards the end of the season that he would only move to a club playing Champions League football next season but it seems as though the lure to play under Arsene Wenger has softened Lacazette’s ambitions. He boasted the highest conversion rate of an striker in Europe last season (38.9%), scoring an incredible 37 goals in 45 games as Lyon secured a fourth placed finish in Ligue 1 and reached the Europa League semi-finals.

There is a reason for optimism within the Arsenal faithful with the hope that Lacazette can continue the form that has seen him become of Europe’s most deadliest strikers. His goal-scoring record puts him among the very best in Europe. Only Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Gonzalo Higuain and Robert Lewandowski have scored more goals than the Frenchman in the last three seasons. He is even above Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Harry Kane and Sergio Aguero too.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qs9ElyuKMBM

In actual fact, his numbers are improving every season. He notched 28 league goals and 37 in all competitions last term – his best ever return to date. He leaves Lyon as their best ever goalscorer in 30 years and the fourth highest in the clubs decorated history. It would be difficult to dismiss his record as anything but special.

The Frenchman promises to be a fine addition to a team that has been crying out for a deadly frontman for many years, since Robin Van Persie. But if Arsene Wenger repeats his failings from 2012, then Arsenal could be in danger of regressing yet again. The signing of Lacazette is all well and good, but Arsenal MUST do everything in their power to keep – yet still, the finest player in the dressing room, Alexis Sanchez.

Sanchez recently said he knows where he will be playing next season, and is yet to reveal if he will be extending his contract at the Emirates.

Former Arsenal player Nigel Winterburn, told Sky Sports News HQ that it is imperative that Arsene Wenger retains his attacking players for next season and indeed he is right, Arsenal can ill-afford to lose Alexis seeing as he’s been their best player for the last couple years.

Wenger now finds himself in the same position he was five years ago with Robin Van Persie threatening to run down the last year of his deal. Wenger went on to spend £10m on an unknown quality who had just fired Montpellier to the French title, Olivier Giroud. Lets be fair, Olivier Giroud has been a fine servant to the club and has been excellent value five years on. He has given five good seasons at the Emirates scoring 98 goals in the process. It is no surprise as Giroud approaches his 31st birthday that teams around the Premier League are circulating for his signature.

To be honest, signing Giroud to replace Van Persie was a serious downgrade. At that point in time Van Persie was the best striker in the country, scoring 30 goals during the 2011-2012 season, the most by any Arsenal forward since the great Thierry Henry who scored 30 in the Invincible season.

Arsenal scored 74 goals that season, and it was just last season that they beat that total for the first time since Van Persie left. Only now, Arsenal are starting to find their cutting edge in front of goal again, because only now do they have a World-Class centre forward. Certainly, Giroud is a quality striker, but he’s not one that can win you a League title. The use of Sanchez as the main man up front gave Arsenal much more impetus last season. Arsenal are a completely different proposition with and without him in the team, which is the reason why he, unlike Mesut Ozil, is worth breaking their contract barrier for.

If Sanchez does leave Arsenal this summer, then Wenger will find himself in the same position he did when he sold Van Persie, no matter how quality Lacazette is. Arsenal may be a clinical side next season, but with Sanchez remaining – maybe, just maybe Arsenal could find a formula that could claim them the Premier League title.

Lets be honest, a Lacazette, Ozil and Sanchez attacking trio is what most teams could only dream of. A trio that could terrorise teams next season, and Wenger would be foolish to allow Sanchez to leave, especially if its to rivals Manchester City.

If Sanchez does leave the club, then Arsenal face the prospect of a long summer trying to replace him. Sure, the club have been linked with the likes of Monaco’s ace winger Thomas Lemar and Leicester’s Riyad Mahrez, but none of them can match the desire, the energy, the leadership, the determination and most importantly the ability to score incredible and crucial goals on his own. The only way to replace a world class player,  unfortunately, is with world class. No disrespect to Mahrez and Lemar but they are nowhere the level and class of Alexis Sanchez – they are not at the ‘World Class’ level as of yet.

The signing of Alexandre Lacazette is a clear statement sent by Arsene Wenger in what could be a last chance saloon to embark on a serious assault on the Premier League. Lacazette has been the calibre striker Arsenal have been longing for, a striker who could win points on his own – his record over the past few seasons clearly shows he is capable. The signing of the Frenchman is a step forward, but selling Sanchez could represent two steps back.

Its clear, Arsenal must do everything in their power to keep Alexis Sanchez. Lose him, and Wenger can forget about ending his long Arsenal tenure with Premier League success.

 

 

 

 

 

Arsenal, and other interested clubs around Europe looked to set to miss out on top target Alexandre Lacazette earlier this month after the French international admitted that he was keen on a move to Atletico Madrid.

“I want to wait until the end of the season to discuss things with my agent and make the right choice for my future,” said the Lyon forward. “You need to have some proposals on the table in order to make a choice, so I prefer to wait until the end of the season.

“Atletico Madrid are one of the clubs that have been linked in the press. They have a great coach, nice fans, a project and they obviously have Antoine Griezmann.”

Lyon President Jean-Michel Aulas even took it upon himself to reveal that Atletico Madrid had even reached an agreement with the player:

“Alex has a verbal agreement with a club, Atletico, but there is no certainty, since we have to wait for CAS to lift the ban on recruitment,” said Aulas.

But any potential deal to Atletico Madrid has been killed off, for the summer at least. Discrepancies regarding their recruitment of youth players led FIFA to hand Atletico a transfer ban and significant fine. The Spanish club appealed to the Court Arbitration for Sport (CAS) but while their fine has been reduced, the ban still remains. As a result, Atletico are banned from registering players until January 1, 2018.

As Kaveh Solhekol from Sky Sports News HQ, states Arsenal should be front of the queue and move heaven and earth to try and secure the services of Alexandre Lacazette.

Atletico Madrid’s ban has a lot implications on a number of deals also with United said to be cooling their interest on star man Antoine Griezmann which be could good news for Atletico and coach Diego Simeone. The bad news is, Atletico will not be able to secure Lacazette, even if they could, he won’t be able to play for the club until after January 1, 2018 in which he could be cup-tied for any European games if Atletico Madrid make it through to the Knockout stages next year.

According to Sky Sports Spanish football expert Guillem Balague, Simeone is disappointed in the fact that he won’t be able to sign Alexandre Lacazette, the Argentinian coach had plans to bring the French forward to the club. He felt that his forwards let him down this season and had he had the opportunity to sign Lacazette, it would have meant more goals for Atletico and more of a cutting up-front without the over-reliance on Antoine Griezmann.

Nonetheless, Atletico’s loss could be Arsenal’s gain or even Manchester United who, according to the Daily Mirror are now interested in Lacazette as Mourinho has made signing a No.9 a major priority this summer rather than pursuing Griezmann.

Lacazette finished the season with 36 goals in 44 appearances.

It is indeed very surprising the French hotshot has not moved to a Champions League club already despite his goal scoring prowess that only a few players in Europe can match. Lacazette has encompassed rising from the academy ranks to becoming one of Europe’s most coveted goal scorers. He is one of only four players – Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Harry Kane – to have hit the 20 goal mark in one of Europe’s top five leagues to three successive seasons.

Lacazette has notched 126 times for Lyon in 274 games. When one considers he broke into the first team as a winger under former coach Claude Puel, its even more impressive 110 goals in 182 games since the switch to becoming the main man upfront, after the iconic Lisandro Lopez moved on. In those last three campaigns, the 25 year old has notched 88 goals in 128 (73 in 96 in Ligue 1 alone). Astonishing.

It is believed Arsene Wenger is a huge admirer of Lacazette and is eager to add to his squad with rivals Manchester City and United already making moves in the Transfer market. The confirmation of his two-year deal means that Wenger will have another opportunity to deliver a trophy that has eluded him for over 13 years.

However, the only stumbling block is the fact that Lacazette is desperate to play Champions League football next season, and Arsenal will not be able to provide him with those opportunities as the club will be plying their trade in the Europa League in the new season. What could be even more frustrating for Arsenal is that various reports are circulating around stating that United are set to offer £50million to secure Lacazette’s services. Liverpool are also interested in his services and can also offer Lacazette the prospect of Champions League football next season.

Lacazette has two years left on his current deal, but is desperate to go for pastures new this summer, and there is no better place to ply his trade than in the Premier League. With that said, Arsenal, Liverpool and United must all battle it out for the Frenchman’s signature this summer.

Whoever comes out triumphant in securing Lacazette’s services come the start of the season will have snapped one of Europe’s best goal scorers – a player capable of winning vital points on his own. A vital cog in a League title winning machine.

While many Manchester United fans are licking their lips and biting their nails at various social media outlets and news reports on the potential signing of French forward Antoine Griezmann from Atletico Madrid, news from France and other news outlets are claiming that Manchester United are close to agreeing a deal for Monaco defensive-midfielder Fabinho.

Fabinho is one of many Monaco players reportedly leaving the Stade Louis II this summer. After Bernardo Silva left to join Manchester City last week for a fee of around £43million, reports are also circulating that left-back Benjamin Mendy could be joining Silva at the Etihad stadium within the next few weeks.

According to The Sun, Manchester United are reportedly leading the race to sign the Brazilian midfielder, and Jose Mourinho is determined not to miss out on Fabinho after narrowly missing out on the signing of Bernardo Silva, although, he was not heavy on the list of Manchester United’s transfer targets this summer as Pep Guardiola jumped the gun and secured the Portuguese wing-maestro’s signature.

Fabinho was another star in Monaco’s exciting and free-scoring side that lifted the Ligue 1 title for the first time in 17 years, and reached the Champions League semi-finals. One of Mourinho’s priorities this summer is to sign a long-term replacement for Michael Carrick in defensive-midfield and Fabinho could be the ideal candidate to follow in Carrick’s footsteps. The Brazilian maybe the steel in midfield Mourinho is searching for alongside Paul Pogba and Ander Herrera.

Mourinho’s side have looked light in strength in midfield this season after they sold Schneiderlin and Bastian Schweinsteiger in the January 2017 window. Marouane Fellaini has certainly been a beneficiary of that and Michael Carrick who has signed a new contract with the club is at the twilight of his career.

It is very cleary to see that Mourinho has made signing a midfield enforcer a priority this summer. Over the past few weeks, United have been linked with various midfielders around Europe according to numerous reports: Radja Nainggolan of Roma, Eric Dier of Tottenham, Fabinho and Tiemoue Bakayoko, both of Monaco and even Nemanja Matic from Chelsea.

Whether United get any of those names on their list, it would send a clear signal of intent from Mourinho that he means business. The signing of Fabinho would be a boost not only for the club in the midfield department but also personally for Paul Pogba, the presence of Fabinho behind him in a probable midfield trio would allow the French superstar to focus on being the player he was for Juventus at Old Trafford. In his time in Turin, he had the likes of Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio beside him to do the dirty work which in turn allowed him to truly play his best football.

Fabinho has been a massive presence in the Monaco midfield this season alongside Bakayoko or Jao Moutinho. The 23-year-old Real Madrid reject has played for Monaco since 2014 and netted 10 times for Leonardo Jardim’s side this season with 4 assists to boot. A fantastic return for the midfielder who has enjoyed his best season in a Monaco shirt. Reports are suggesting that the Brazilian will complete his move when he gets back from holiday. Also, that he has become frustrated that his team-mates and “best friends” Bernardo Silva who has signed for City and Benjamin Mendy on course to also follow the Portuguese attacking-midfielder out of the club.

United have also been interested in the services of Eric Dier from Tottenham who has been instrumental in much of Tottenham’s success this season, it is believed that Mourinho is a huge admirer of the former Sporting Lisbon midfielder but any deal for him would be unlikely because of the frosty relationship between Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy and the United board.

Fabinho would definitely add some much needed steel and security to Mourinho’s midfielder if the deal was to go through. United would need to act quickly if they are to get their man as Pep Guardiola is a huge admirer of the Brazilian but it is said he prefers a move to Old Trafford.

Mourinho experimented with his midfield on a number of occasions last season with a 3-4-3, 4-2-3-1 and a 4-3-3 set up, and Fabinho’s adaptability and versatility would prove useful, with the Brazilian also able to play at full-back or even wing-back.

 

Juventus have also been reported to have interest in Fabinho but have just recently pulled out of the running which allows the two Manchester clubs to battle it out for his signature, but it is also said that Pep Guardiola is fully focusing on strengthening his defence and full-back positions with Kyle Walker and Benjamin Mendy his main targets which gives United the green light to fully pursue the Brazilian.

As reported, Fabinho would represent a steady addition to the United overhaul this summer, a player blessed with huge physical presence and is tactically sound – a trait Mourinho admires. Fabinho could be a dream signing for United this summer.