How and Why Man United signed Christian Eriksen
Manchester United have finally signed a midfield maestro…
Manchester United have finally signed a midfield maestro…
And although it’s not the midfield signing that everyone was expecting, it represents an upgrade in the United engine room and, overall, serves as a big coup with Erik ten Hag’s playing philosophy in mind.
As such, with an agreement reached and a transfer expected to go through imminently; how and why did Manchester United sign Christian Eriksen?
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How Man Utd signed Eriksen
After a month of speculation surrounding the future of Christian Eriksen, a decision has finally been made by the 30-year-old.
Despite suffering a cardiac arrest at Euro 2020, Eriksen returned to action in February of this year, accepting a short-term deal with Brentford after his contract with Inter Milan was terminated by mutual consent, due to Serie A rules.
His return to football and the Premier League for that matter went swimmingly in what was a four month stint that saw him notch a solitary goal and four assists in 11 Premier League appearances for Brentford.
Which leads us nicely as to why Manchester United want the 30-year-old.
Why Man Utd signed Eriksen
There are multiple reasons as to why Christian Eriksen has attracted the attention of Manchester United.
Firstly, his ability as a creator in the centre of the pitch represents excellent value for a player who is available on a free transfer.
In just 11 Premier League appearances for Brentford, he ranked as the side’s fourth highest chance creator overall with 30 chances created. And he was the most efficient in the squad, clocking up around 2.9 chances created per 90. But it is worth noting that he had significantly less game time than his teammates.
His stats for Brentford this season would see him rank fourth in United’s squad for chances created overall, slotting in just behind Luke Shaw and just ahead of Fred. But it’s the same story when it comes to chances created per 90, with Eriksen surpassing Bruno Fernandes’ average of 2.6 chances created per 90, in a scenario that comes with the caveat that the Dane has played less games.
But whilst United are in need of another chance creator in the engine room, from Ten Hag’s perspective, they require more experience and further depth.
Manchester United’s average squad age last season was 27, but with the departures of Matic, Pogba, Lingard, Cavani, Mata and Grant, this average is set to lower somewhat significantly.
As such, it renders just Cristiano Ronaldo and Phil Jones as the only two outfield players in the squad over the age of 29.
And with the latter expected to play a bit-part role at the very most, having barely featured in recent years, it means that Ronaldo is the only senior outfield regular.
Considering the amount of talent that United have in their youth ranks, such as Alejandro Garnacho and Hannibal Mejbri, among others, an experienced, productive and low-profile asset who fits the system of a Ten Hag possession style is exactly the kind of signing that United need this summer.
Eriksen has been schooled at Ajax earlier in his career and fits a mass-possession playing style, offering his ability as a playmaker.
And when you also consider that he has been snapped up on a free transfer, the move makes even more sense from a Red Devils perspective.
Kalvin Phillips' Butterfly Effect at Manchester City
Pep Guardiola may be left with a conflicting decision in the holding midfielder role…
After securing the capture of Kalvin Phillips at Manchester City…
Pep Guardiola may be left with a conflicting decision in the holding midfielder role…
The signing of Phillips is tactically fascinating and could have a knock-on effect on Rodri, who has proven himself as somewhat of a midfield maestro in possession this season.
And his return of seven goals and two assists from defensive midfield has reflected his efficiency as a well-rounded asset.
Though, his defensive numbers have faltered slightly and fall short of the metrics sustained by Phillips, leading us to believe that the England international will be the first choice pivot in Pep’s 4-3-3 system.
So, what happens to Rodri?
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Rodri’s… Promotion?
Rodri’s stability and attacking efficiency in the season just gone may have influenced the thinking of Pep, who could now be flirting with the idea of pushing the Spaniard up into a more progressive role as a central midfielder.
The 26-year-old made 19 appearances for Villarreal as a central midfielder and has registered some elite level numbers in-possession this season.
With an average of 80.79 passes per 90 at a completion rate of 92.7%, he is City’s best midfielder in terms of passing metrics, beating the likes of:
Kevin De Bruyne who achieves an average of 46.49 passes at a completion rate of 76.2%,
Bernardo Silva who averages 50.99 passes completed at a completion rate of 88.6%
as well as new City signing Kalvin Phillips who averages 43.36 passes completed at a completion rate of 81.5%.
He’s not exactly passive (excuse the pun) in-possession either, registering a match average of 7.69 passes into the final third and 5.68 progressive passes - beating Bernardo and Phillips, whilst falling just short of De Bruyne who averages an elite level 6.36 progressive passes per 90.
Why Rodri to CM makes sense
Phillips’ arrival will enable Pep to employ a 2-3-5 system in the build-up, which will vary throughout the attacking phase.
One method would require both full-backs to join the midfield throughout an inverted approach to accompany Phillips, which would see the central midfielders get forward in the same fashion that they did last season.
Whilst the second method would see Pep deploy his full-backs throughout an asymmetrical approach, in which Cucurella and Cancelo would mimic that of Robertson and Trent in sharing attacking duties through overlapping runs to create an overload down each flank on a rotated basis.
This method would still require stability in midfield, so one of the central midfielders would need to support Phillips both in and out of possession.
Which is why playing a well-rounded and defensively sound asset like Rodri as a central midfielder makes even more sense.
With the Spaniard averaging 96.12 touches per game, the majority of Manchester City’s play goes through him, and with 68.29 carries, he’s a progressive asset in midfield.
As a central midfielder, he would essentially carry out the role that Thiago Alcantara does for Liverpool, dropping deep to pick up the ball and dictate play through progressive passes.
In a 4-3-3 system, it’s a move that makes a lot of sense.
Though, if Pep is to revert back to the 4-2-3-1 system that we saw him use when he first arrived at City, a double-pivot duo of Rodri and Phillips would make even more sense.
How and Why Liverpool signed Darwin Nunez
This makes the 22-year-old a versatile option in the attack for Klopp, who now has all bases covered in attack…
Liverpool have ruthlessly put an end to the Darwin Nunez saga…
By signing the Uruguayan for a reported €75m fee, which is around £64m.
And it’s a fee that could rise as high as £85.6m when performance related add-ons are taken into account.
Nunez had a number of potential suitors from Premier League clubs.
So how and why did Liverpool sign Darwin Nunez?
HOW LIVERPOOL SIGNED NUNEZ
Throughout all of the build up to the Summer Transfer Window, Nunez was a name on the lips of most clubs, after enjoying a break-out season with Benfica in a campaign which saw him notch 26 goals and four assists in 28 Liga Portugal games.
The 22-year-old personally announced himself to Klopp, scoring in both legs of the Champions League Quarter-Final clash to take his tally up to six goals in 10 UCL appearances.
Klopp was clearly impressed and it has since been said that the German was in private talks with the Striker two months prior to the deal being agreed.
WHY LIVERPOOL SIGNED NUNEZ
Quite simply, he’s proven himself as a reliable goalscorer this season and serves as a viable replacement for the departing Sadio Mane.
Nunez is primarily a centre-forward, but has been deployed as a left winger in a 4-3-3 system on five occasions this season, scoring ten goals and supplying two assists. An unbelievable return from the position that Mane currently occupies for Liverpool.
This makes the 22-year-old a versatile option in the attack for Klopp, who now has all bases covered in attack:
A target-man in Nunez
A false-nine in Firmino/Jota
A complete forward in Nunez/Firmino/Jota
An inverted-winger in Salah/Diaz/Jota/Nunez
An inside-forward in Nunez/Diaz/Jota
A support-winger in Diaz/Jota
For that reason, although Nunez will play the majority of his games as a centre-forward, we may see him on the left wing a handful of times next season in an attacking line that will mix and match every other game.
THE VERDICT
Liverpool proved themselves as the league’s most creative side in the season just gone, creating 97 big chances, 10 clear of Manchester City.
Though, they ranked third in the league for big chances missed with 59. Their main culprit was Diogo Jota who missed 14 chances with a shot conversion rate of 11.7% in the Premier League.
For comparison, Nunez achieved a shot conversion rate of 23.4% in the Liga Portugal - a metric that ranks him as the most clinical finisher among the Liverpool squad by some distance, with the likes of Salah and Mane registering a shot conversion rate of 12.8%, respectively.
As a lone centre-forward, Nunez will benefit hugely from Liverpool’s directness and can offer Klopp an immediate solution to his big chances missed problem in the same way that Haaland will for City.
Overall it’s a promising signing and, despite the huge price-tag, is more logical than most think.
Why Manchester City NEED Marc Cucurella
Manchester City’s reported pursuit of Marc Cucurella tells us a lot about Pep’s desired play-style for next season…
Manchester City’s reported pursuit of Marc Cucurella tells us a lot about Pep’s desired play-style for next season.
Ever since the signing of Erling Haaland was confirmed, there have been questions as to how the Norwegian powerhouse will fit into such a technical and patient side.
Though, it seems as if Pep will look to make Haaland’s life as easy as possible, by changing Manchester City’s approach play throughout the possession phase.
Pep’s inverted full-back experiment
Benjamin Mendy’s situation off the pitch and Kyle Walker’s injury issues have left Pep short of full-backs this season - with the Spaniard ironically selling two ready-made options in Angelino and Pedro Porro.
The management of depth at the back has seen the likes of Joao Cancelo, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Nathan Ake play a combined 65 Premier League games this season, with Kyle Walker also managing 20 appearances.
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When Walker has started at right-back this season, Cancelo has performed as an inverted full-back, with the Portuguese looking to cut inside and join the midfield in-possession.
He’s performed tremendously as a right-footed left-back, registering five assists in 22 appearances this season.
But the reported pursuit of Cucurella would suggest that Pep’s experiment with Cancelo as an inverted full-back is clearly over, with orthodox full-backs now looking as though they will have a place once again in the Spaniard’s ever-evolving system.
City’s change in tactics
The potential move for Cucurella suggests a lot about Pep Guardiola’s tactics going into next season, as he clearly wants a more direct and orthodox option at full-back to accommodate Erling Haaland as the out-and-out target man.
Operating as a left wing-back for Graham Potter’s Brighton side, the 23-year-old Spaniard has created an impressive 42 chances this season - which is more than Walker, Zinchenko and Ake’s combined total of 30 chances created. Cancelo meanwhile is just short of Cucurella’s total this season with 39 chances created respectively.
In what has been his debut Premier League season, former Barca starlet Cucurella has proven his creative acumen, and as such, has attracted the interest of Guardiola who will no doubt be looking at a left-footed full-back to fire in chances for incoming target-man Haaland.
Guardiola is clearly looking to take a page out of Jurgen Klopp’s tactical notebook - the one that hits a fine balance between a mass-possession foundation, merged with a loud and abrasive pressing system that leads to direct counter-attacking transitions.
With or without Cucurella, it looks as though the arrival of Haaland will result in a more direct approach from Guardiola, who will continue to write new pages in his book of ever evolving football schematics.
The Marcelo Bielsa Stadium
How great is Marcelo Bielsa? So great that his former club named their stadium after him…
Marcelo Bielsa…
An undeniably astute tactician and ultimate character of the game.
Whilst his trophy-cabinet isn’t as stacked as former mentee Pep Guardiola’s cabinet, Bielsa is still regarded as one of the greatest managers the game has ever seen.
This is largely down to his deployment of unique and somewhat unorthodox methods that have lead to admiration from notable figures involved in the game - none more so than Pep Guardiola himself.
The Spaniard met Bielsa before undertaking the role of head coach at Barcelona B and has since adopted elements of Bielsa’s philosophies and beliefs in how the game should be played.
“HE IS PROBABLY THE PERSON I ADMIRE THE MOST IN WORLD FOOTBALL - AS A MANAGER AND AS A PERSON”
Bielsa has been coaching for just over 4 decades and in that time has built up a CV featuring the likes of Argentina, Marseille, Lazio and Lille, before of course taking charge of an ambitious Leeds United side in 2018.
A club that I refrained from mentioning in that previous sentence, though, is the Argentinian outfit; Newell’s Old Boys. This is the club in which Marcelo Bielsa first cut his teeth as a coach, all the way back in the 1980’s, when he took charge of their youth team.
After 10 years as a youth coach for Newell’s, Bielsa eventually took charge of the first team, where he enjoyed instant success - winning league titles in 1991 and 1992.
As you can imagine, there is a certain bond between Bielsa and Newell’s Old Boys. A bond that could be described as the epitomy of football romanticism to the truest extent.
In 2009, Bielsa’s reputation as a coach skyrocketed, after he took the Chilean National Team to the World Cup finals for the first time in 12 years.
Hometown club Newell’s were so proud of Bielsa’s achievements that they decided to name their stadium after him, in what was a gesture towards the great man known globally as ‘El Loco.’
Newell’s club secretary at the time said this;
“THIS IS A GESTURE TOWARDS A PERSON WHO DID A LOT FOR THE CLUB AND TODAY CARRIES ITS NAME WITH PRIDE AROUND THE WORLD.”
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How Less Passes have improved Liverpool this season
Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool side are making less passes in the Premier League this season and it's actually making them play better - but how?
Liverpool’s style of football has changed this season.
They’ve gone from making around 548 passes per game, to around 517 passes per game.
Whilst there’s only a difference of 31 passes, it’s a metric that has seen them improve as a team this season.
What does it suggest?
In short, it suggests that Liverpool have been more direct in their attacking play.
Compared to last year’s total of 5.6 shots on target per match and average of 1.8 goals per match, the difference is stark and evidences our suggestion nicely.
This year, Liverpool average around 7.0 shots on target per match and average around 2.6 goals per match also.
What else has improved?
Perhaps the most mesmerising stat that Liverpool have improved upon is the metric known as big chances created. According to Opta, this refers to “a situation where a player should be expected to score.”
Last year (2020/2021), Liverpool created a very impressive 82 big chances in 38 Premier League games. For context, Manchester City won the league, scored the most goals and had a total of 79 big chances created - 3 less than Liverpool that season.
Fast forward to this year’s Premier League campaign, in which Liverpool find themselves 25 matches deep (as of February 21st 2022), and they look as though they will massively improve on that previously high big chances created metric of 82.
In 25 Premier League games, they have created 72 big chances - a metric that see’s them rank 1st with no close second. Manchester City sit well behind them with 59 big chances created, with the Citizens then followed by Manchester United who sit in 3rd place for big chances created with 52.
It’s also worth noting that Liverpool have improved in the majority of their defensive metrics as well.
Though, there is no direct link between the improvement of their defence and the amount of passes per game. This is of course due to passes being part of the in-possession phase and not the out-of-possession phase.
Notable info:
- Stats as per Opta
- Recorded on Feb 21st 2022
- 25 games into Liverpool’s Premier League season
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What is Dele Alli's Best Position?
How can Everton get the best out of Dele Alli?
Frank Lampard and Everton have handed Dele Alli a life-line.
Dele Alli endured the worst season of his career last year, struggling for game time having played just 620 minutes in the league.
When he did play, he failed to make an impact and ended the season with just 1 assist in 15 Premier League appearances.
He was a shadow of the player who generated 12 returns in 25 Premier League appearances during the 19/20 season.
Though his defensive numbers were outstanding and saw him reach the 99th percentile for pressures, and pressures in the attacking third (as per fbref/statsbomb). Numbers that promote retrospective irony of the highest degree for two reasons.
Reason Number One
José Mourinho’s comments the season before as he famously said “Dele Alli is not a midfield player.”
Reason Number Two
The fact that Spurs are currently the 4th worst side in the Premier League (as of Feb 16th 2022) when it comes to winning possession in the final third. If only they had a player in their ranks that placed in the 90th percentile for tackles in the attacking third in 2 of the last 3 seasons… If only…
END PRODUCT
In fairness, you can understand why José Mourinho identified Dele Alli as an attacking player.
His first 2 seasons at Spurs saw him rack up 44 attacking returns in 70 Premier League appearances - with Dele scoring 18 of those during his second season in England’s top flight.
And even the next 3 seasons that followed were sprinkled with goals and assists.
Bearing in mind last season’s numbers and now accounting for this season’s, a pattern is beginning to appear - and it’s not positive.
The main focal point of Dele Alli’s game has completely diminished over the previous season and half. There is a severe lack of end product, with Alli contributing with just 1 goal and 1 assist in his last 35 Premier League appearances.
THE BEST VERSION OF DELE ALLI
The best version of Dele Alli could be seen during the 2016/2017 season, in which he netted an incredible 22 goals and chipped in with a further 14 assists in 50 appearances for Mauricio Pochettino’s Spurs side.
18 of those goals were in the Premier League, with 12 goals occurring when Alli was deployed as an attacking midfielder.
SO, WHAT CAN WE CONCLUDE?
Well firstly, José Mourinho was onto something.
Dele Alli had his best goalscoring season when he primarily featured as a number 10.
Of those 18 Premier League goals scored, 12 came from when Alli functioned as a native number 10.
So that is our conclusion; Dele Alli’s best position is in the role of an attacking midfielder.
The best version of Dele Alli functions as a native number 10, giving him the freedom to occupy central areas and provide attacking support whilst making use of his technical ability to create space, opportunities and most importantly; goal-threat.
A big part of why Dele Alli flourishes as a number 10 though is due to his defensive work.
As an attacking midfielder in a 4-2-3-1 or 3-4-2-1 system for example, he will act as part of the first line of defence, providing an astonishingly high number of pressures per 90 - numbers that put him in and around the 99th percentile per 90 (as per fbref/statsbomb).
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How and Why Manchester City signed Julian Alvarez
Have Manchester City signed the next Aguero?
January 31st is, and always will be, regarded as an important date in the football calendar.
And whilst this year’s edition of the Winter Transfer Deadline Day was rather glum for some, it was much more exciting for others.
None more so than the 22-year-old Argentinian Forward; Julian Alvarez - who signed for Manchester City on his 22nd Birthday.
Alvarez had a number of suitors from some of the continent’s finest clubs.
So how and why did Manchester City sign Julian Alvarez on Transfer Deadline Day?
How Manchester City signed Alvarez
Last summer, Julian Alvarez was being tracked by a number of top sides, with Aston Villa and Bayer Leverkusen making their interest known.
Though the young forward opted to stay-put at River Plate, as he awaited an offer from a club who played Champions League football.
Suddenly, the list of teams who could appeal to Alvarez sensationally decreased.
And that’s where Manchester City come in.
Why Manchester City signed Alvarez
The answer is simple.
He’s young, talented and versatile throughout the forward positions.
And even at his young age, he understands what it takes to win silverware - having won 6 trophies in his time at River Plate so far, with one of those the prestigious Copa Libertadores.
Alvarez enjoyed a stellar 2020/2021 campaign in which he notched up 27 goal-contributions in 21 games for River Plate in the Argentine Primera Division.
Of those 27 goal-contributions, 18 were goals and 9 were assists.
None of his goals were from the penalty spot and he achieved these numbers in just 21 league games.
Having just turned 22, his potential is clear, and Ferran Torres’ recent departure to Barcelona is bound to have had an influence in this decision.
The biggest influence though is the fact that 17 goals and 7 assists were achieved when Alvarez was deployed as a centre-forward.
Add in the fact that Manchester City paid just £14m for his services and the move makes even more sense from a Manchester City perspective.
This means that Julian Alvarez cost £1m more than Dan Burn, £2m pounds more than Wout Weghorst and £11m less than Chris Wood!
Very efficient business by The Citizens.
A Win-Win Situation
With Alvarez now on-loan at River Plate for this next season, it means that he has more time to develop his game at a club he’s comfortable with, before he returns to Manchester City next season.
It also means that River Plate do not have to worry about replacing him immediately, and can ponder on their decision.
As for Manchester City, their striker-crisis is over.
They now have a young, prolific striker on their books who will be ready to make an impact, come next season.
The Next Aguero?
For some City fans, this is a move that will fill an even bigger void.
Work it out for yourself;
He’s Argentinian.
He’s primarily a centre-forward.
He’s a prolific goal scorer.
By the time he makes his Manchester City debut, he will be around 23-years-old. (The same age that Manchester City’s All-Time Top Scorer was when he arrived).
Does that ring any bells?
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What next for Dele Alli?
What next for the 25-year-old?
Last season was the worst of Dele Alli’s relatively young career.
He struggled for game time, playing just 620 minutes in the league. Though, that was in the form of 15 Premier League appearances where he only managed a measly return of 1 assist.
In regards to his attacking threat, he was a shadow of the player who generated 12 returns in 25 Premier League appearances the season before.
But his defensive numbers were outstanding and saw him reach the 99th percentile for pressures, and pressures in the attacking third (as per fbref/statsbomb). Numbers that promote retrospective irony of the highest degree for two reasons.
Reason Number One
José Mourinho’s comments the season before as he famously said “Dele Alli is not a midfield player.”
Reason Number Two
The fact that Spurs are currently the worst side in the Premier League (as of Jan 25th 2022) when it comes to winning possession in the final third. If only they had a player in their ranks that placed in the 90th percentile for tackles in the attacking third in 2 of the last 3 seasons… If only…
End Product
In fairness, you can understand why José Mourinho identified Dele Alli as an attacking player. His first 2 seasons at Spurs saw him rack up 44 attacking returns in 70 Premier League appearances - with Dele scoring 18 of those during his second season in England’s top flight.
And even the next 3 seasons that followed were sprinkled with goals and assists.
Bearing in mind last season’s numbers and now accounting for this season’s, a pattern is beginning to appear - and it’s not positive.
The main focal point of Dele Alli’s game has completely diminished over the previous season and half. There is a severe lack of end product, with Alli contributing with just 1 goal and 1 assist in his last 35 Premier League appearances.
Fluctuation in Management
The fluctuation of managers at Tottenham Hotspur over the last couple of years will not have helped Dele Alli’s development by any stretch of the imagination.
Whilst the first half of Jose Mourinho’s spell saw Dele Alli deployed as an attacking midfielder, sitting just behind Harry Kane, the second half saw him majorly struggling for game time - with Tanguy Ndombele preferred in formations that made use of an attacking midfielder.
The appointment of Ryan Mason saw him start the final 5 games of the season, but the performances were far from inspirational and saw Alli deliver just 1 assist - his first of the Premier League campaign in Tottenham’s 35th game of the season, against Leeds United.
Under Nuno Espírito Santo, Dele Alli found himself as a starter - for the first 6 games at least. During these 6 appearances, he scored 1 goal and failed to create a single chance. He did not suit Nuno’s system - a system that saw him function primarily as a central midfielder.
Which brings us to the present day, where Dele Alli finds himself as a bench player for Spurs, having made just 3 Premier League appearances under Antonio Conte. One of those appearances saw him feature as a defensive midfielder in a double pivot, a role that in no way plays to Alli’s best strengths.
The Best Version of Dele Alli
The best version of Dele Alli could be seen during the 2016/2017 season, in which he netted an incredible 22 goals and chipped in with a further 14 assists in 50 appearances for Mauricio Pochettino’s Spurs side.
18 of those goals were in the Premier League, with 12 goals occurring when Alli was deployed as an attacking midfielder.
So, what can we conclude?
Well firstly, José Mourinho was onto something.
Dele Alli had his best goalscoring season when he primarily featured as a number 10. Of those 18 Premier League goals scored, 12 came from when Alli functioned as a native number 10.
So that is our first conclusion; Dele Alli’s best position is the role of an attacking midfielder.
The best version of Dele Alli functions as a native number 10, giving him the freedom to occupy central areas and provide attacking support whilst making use of his technical ability to create space, opportunities and most importantly; goal-threat.
A big part of why Dele Alli flourishes as a number 10 though is due to his defensive work. As an attacking midfielder in a 4-2-3-1 or 3-4-2-1 system for example, he will act as part of the first line of defence, providing an astonishingly high number of pressures per 90 - numbers that put him in and around the 99th percentile per 90 (as per fbref/statsbomb).
Our second conclusion? Dele Alli needs to leave Tottenham Hotspur.
A Change of Scenery
Having struggled for game time across the last season and a half, it’s obvious that Dele Alli needs a change of scenery.
At 25-years-old, he has an incredible amount of experience and more importantly, potential.
He’s currently valued at around £22.5m, which is a bargain if a club can help him return to his best.
The question is, which club is he most likely go to? and can said club allow him the opportunity to function as an attacking midfielder in a progressive system?
At this point in time, Dele Alli is linked with a host of clubs with the likes of Newcastle, PSG, Borussia Dortmund, Brighton, Everton, Southampton and Burnley all said to be in for the 25-year-old Englishman.
But which move would suit him best?
Dele Alli’s Next Club
Although they’re not said to be in for him, Leeds United would be an astute move, tactically speaking, for Dele Alli.
He would fit seamlessly into Bielsa’s 4-1-4-1, 3-3-3-1 and 4-2-3-1 systems with an ability to enhance Leeds’ counter-press.
If Leeds are unsuccessful in their attempts to lure Brenden Aaronson away from RB Salzburg, then a move for Dele Alli would suit both parties.
As I mentioned though, Leeds United have not been linked, so whilst The Whites would be an ideal destination, we’ll instead pick from the clubs who have been linked.
Borussia Dortmund are a club who could offer Dele Alli an exciting platform to show the world what he can do.
Head coach; Marco Rose, often fluctuates between formations that use an out-and-out number 10 but has garnered some consistency over the past month utilising a 4-3-3 system.
There is also a lot of competition at Dortmund for an attacking midfielder, with Reus, Reinier and Brandt all capable of playing anywhere across the forward positions.
It’s the same with PSG. Whilst a reunion with former manager Mauricio Pochettino could help matters, the 4-3-3 system that PSG have settled with would not allow Dele Alli the opportunity to prosper and there is also a responsibility to act as a support for the superstars; Kylian Mbappé and Neymar - which could hamper Alli’s attacking opportunities.
In terms of game time, a move to Dortmund or PSG at this stage could be too risky for Dele, so we’ll move onto the next possible destination.
Newcastle are one of the favourites to land Alli’s signature, and have recently shone when setting up as a 4-3-2-1.
Eddie Howe’s system incorporates two number 10s, and Dele Alli has proven himself in a similar 3-4-2-1 set-up in his best season at Tottenham.
There is also potential for Dele to become a key player for Newcastle, and if that was the case then fans would give him the love and support that we at Let’s Talk Ball believe he craves as a football player.
On the other hand, Brighton could offer another promising route out of Spurs, and the temptation of joining an ambitious side with a tactically astute manager could be a tempting proposition.
Potter tends to switch formations for each opponent and Alli has the necessary versatility to function well in a total football system like this.
All five aforementioned teams would give Dele Alli an opportunity to prosper in a different setting, but the most logical scenario would see him go to Newcastle United on loan for the rest of the season.
This way, he would be able to minimise risk and have a chance to enjoy his football, with a determined side who want to avoid relegation at all costs.
At Newcastle, he would be able to function in his favoured role as a number 10 and play for a club who offer an exciting project.
Overall, this represents the best short-term option for Dele Alli to rejuvenate his once promising career.
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Why Newcastle United are desperately chasing Diego Carlos...
Diego Carlos has gone under the radar when it comes to Europe’s elite…
The stats say it all…
Newcastle United have simply not been good enough this season and it’s no wonder that they find themselves in the relegation zone.
Of course there is a slither of hope for the Tyneside club, after they managed to secure a takeover that reportedly makes them the ‘richest club In the world.’
The takeover by the Saudi-led consortium, which is fronted by Amanda Staveley, has brought a fresh direction for the Magpies at the time they needed it most.
It’s no secret that the fans of Newcastle United felt that they deserved better, after previous owner, Mike Ashley, neglected the club.
With the precarious position that the Tyneside outfit find themselves in, they need to build on the momentum that has been installed under this new ownership.
The January Transfer Window presents the opportunity to do just that.
The signing of Kieran Trippier was astute, whilst the move for Chris Wood from relegation rivals Burnley was a statement of intent.
But they’re not done there, and rightly so.
They are in desperate need of some solidity in the backline.
The Stats
The stats say it all;
They’ve conceded the second-most goals this season with 43 goals conceded.
They concede around 2.2 goals per game - the worst record in the league.
They have the highest xG conceded with 38.5.
They have the worst disciplinary record, conceding 6 penalties, amassing 2 red cards, as well as 49 yellow cards.
They need an established centre-back to assert some authority into that backline and who better than Sevilla’s 28-year-old Brazilian centre-back; Diego Carlos?
Humble Beginnings
Diego Carlos has gone under the radar when it comes to Europe’s elite.
Despite being on the books of Porto through a loan-spell in 2014, he never made a first team appearance, instead featuring 19 teams for their B-team.
He returned back to parent club at the time, Estoril, and played 33 games, before joining French Ligue 1 side FC Nantes on a 5-year deal.
Carlos established himself in France, making a total of 108 appearances for Les Canaris, before Spanish side Sevilla came in for his services.
His efforts in helping Sevilla to Europa League success in the 19/20 season translated to a call-up to the Brazil National Team, with Carlos reaping further awards - this time picking up an Olympic Gold Medal during the 2020 Summer Olympics.
Diego Carlos’ club career up until Sevilla has been relatively humble, though his quality is undoubted and I urge you to take him seriously.
How Diego Carlos Compares to Europe’s Elite
Here is how Diego Carlos compares to some of the current best centre-backs in the world;
I’ve compared Diego Carlos’ defensive stats this season with some of Europe’s elite. If you’re not too familiar with the Sevilla Defender, I’m sure the results will shock you.
In comparison with Virgil Van Dijk, Ruben Dias, Eder Militao, Antonio Rüdiger and Kalidou Koulibaly - Diego Carlos ranks;
3rd in terms of number of players tackled with 30 successful dispossessions.
1st in terms of blocks.
2nd in terms of interceptions with 27.
2nd in terms of clearances with 80 - only Van Dijk has more at this stage with 88.
As you can see, Newcastle United are not messing around with this signing and it’s understandable why they are so desperate for, what is on the whole, an underrated centre-back about to enter his prime.
Newcastle’s Display of Intent
The fact that Newcastle United are putting all of their might into a signing of this calibre demonstrates their intent to avoid playing Championship football, come next season.
From what we understand, Newcastle have had 2 bids rejected for Carlos, with the Brazilian centre-back believed to be open to the idea of signing for the Magpies.
Before going back in for a 3rd and hopefully final bid, the Toon have waited patiently for the tension that comes with the Seville-Derby to blow over.
Newcastle are now expected to go in with a bid of around £40m to seal the deal for what is one of the top centre-backs in the world this season.
The Caveat
Perhaps the biggest caveat in all of this is the fact that Diego Carlos is playing an important role in Sevilla’s La Liga title challenge this season, and a move to Newcastle United at this stage of the campaign would be a huge risk for both parties.
Add in the fact that Sevilla are playing in their favourite European competition in the form of the Europa League, under the same manager in Julen Lopetegui, who won it during the 19/20 season, and you’ll be questioning if Diego Carlos is feeling okay.
The fact is that Newcastle United need Diego Carlos more than he needs them but they do have the financial resources to make this move more attractive.
And, bearing in mind Carlos’ relatively humble resumé at club-level, he may have the ideal characteristics that Newcastle United are seeking in a centre-back that can come in and help them to retain their Premier League status.
Overall, this is an astute move by Newcastle United and if they’re successful in bringing Diego Carlos in during this window, he could be an integral piece in their bid for Premier League survival.
Why are Manchester United struggling for form with the squad at Solskjaer’s disposal?
There was a feel-good factor around Old Trafford, so what’s happened?
Cast your mind back to the 28th of March 2019…
The day that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was appointed full-time manager of Manchester United.
The club had yet to drop a point in the Premier League since Solskjaer’s appointment and just 9 days before they shocked the world of football by knocking PSG out of the Champions League in an astonishing night in Paris.
There was a feel-good factor around Old Trafford, but it was more than that. It felt exciting to watch Manchester United play again, attacking football was the way, a return to the DNA which United are universally known for.
What Happened?
So, what happened to this identity? The signing of Bruno Fernandes may have ultimately made Manchester United a better team that wins more games and is more competitive in the league.
Now the signings of Raphael Varane, Jadon Sancho and the remarkable return of Cristiano Ronaldo further bolsters a squad brimming with quality.
However, what does seem to have been lost in time is that front foot attacking style, taking matches to the opposition, and counter-attacking with urgency and meaning.
In his earlier days Solskjaer also showed a willingness to change his mind about significant players. He introduced Fred for example into the team on a regular basis after he had impressed when given a chance.
Now though, the tables have turned, and Fred’s performances have dropped significantly.
His carelessness in possession is a source of ever-increasing frustration from the United fanbase but Solskjaer doesn’t seem willing to drop him.
Ole’s Favouritism
His stubbornness in his favouritism is becoming a problem.
It’s holding back the career of the once highly touted Dutch international Donny Van De Beek who is desperate for a run of games.
I was there at Old Trafford when West Ham knocked Manchester United out of the Carabao Cup last week and whilst the result was bitterly disappointing, the performance from Van De Beek and Matic in holding midfield was a major positive.
Between them they controlled the midfield, and Van De Beek was particularly impressive with both his range of passes and defensive tenacity. Yet Van De Beek didn’t see a minute against Aston Villa at the weekend after a display which saw him awarded Man of the Match.
Ole needs to let go of this stubborn blindness before it costs his side more league points and another Champions League group stage exit.
I understand his cautious approach around Sancho after the 21-year-old’s slow start to life at Old Trafford, but he must find a way of integrating Sancho into the starting 11 soon. Otherwise, fans will be feeling a sense of deja vu after similar treatment to Van De Beek.
He needs a chance to play regularly with his new teammates as there is no doubting his world class talent and what he can bring to the team if given the licence. He could also help Manchester United find an identity again as whilst he isn’t a conventional Ryan Giggs type winger, he is a positive thinking player.
Sancho, Fernandes, Greenwood and Ronaldo could be a formidable front four if they all click and are given licence to play a freer flowing, attacking way.
This negative approach to games, parking the bus as soon as a lead looks vaguely vulnerable needs to change. Not only is it not the United way but it’s also not the best way to get the most out of this group of players which is bursting with attacking talent.
Ole needs to find a way to get his attacking players on the same wavelength as well as making changes to the midfield to ensure that said attacking players aren’t feeding of scraps all game.
United need to gain more control of games and ultimately that comes from the midfield. Ole said the signing of Varane could allow his side to play a more positive formation but he hasn’t stuck to that promise so far.
He needs to put faith in the back 5 and go with just one holding midfielder, allowing him to play Pogba and Fernandes alongside each other in the number 8 role which is Pogba’s most effective position.
Then a front three of Sancho (hopefully Rashford soon) Greenwood and Ronaldo with Cavani as an impact player off the bench, has a lot of promise.
It’s make or break time for Ole’s tenure, he’ll always be a club legend for his time as a player but there is growing concern that his time as a manager will be yet another post Ferguson failure.
It’s in his hands and his alone to change that narrative.
Six Questions: Ben Zlatko Petry of Alemannia Aachen
Here, Ben talks about the step up to U19 football and his time at Alemannia Aachen, among other things…
Six Questions with Ben Zlatko Petry of Alemannia Aachen…
Ben Zlatko Petry is a talented and versatile player who plays for the Alemannia Aachen FC U19 team.
Ben mainly operates as a centre-back but can also play in central midfield or as a right-back. He is good with one-on-one defending and is a good tackler who possesses a lot of pace.
Here, Ben talks about the step up to U19 football and his time at Alemannia Aachen, among other things.
Ben Zlatko Petry
Alemannia Aachen
Growing up, who were your idols in the footballing world?
I would say Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Nemanja Vidic. Ibrahimovic because of his personality and his elite mentality that made him stand out from the rest and prove his doubters wrong, I loved Vidic because he was an absolute beast and I love watching videos of his best tackles.
Having played in a variety of positions on the pitch, you would have come up against some difficult opponents in your career already, are there any particular opponents that you can name who gave you a hard time?
I would say the most difficult opponents I have come up against are Florian Wirtz when he still played for 1. FC Köln and more recently Bradley Fink of Borussia Dortmund U19.
Florian Wirtz because he played like an old man with the body of a 17 years old. He played in such a smart and effortless way. Bradley Fink stood out because he is just unstoppable. He is tall, fast and almost every shot he takes results in a goal.
How big of a step-up do you think it is to go from U17 to U19 football in Germany?
It was a very big step-up because at U17 level you always play against players your age but at U19 you play almost every game against older players and that‘s really difficult.
Are there any particular coaches who have played a big role in helping you reach where you are today that you would like to thank?
His name is André Wolf. I played for SV Eilendorf and he wanted me to come to Alemannia Aachen. After my first test training in Aachen I got injured in a game for Eilendorf but he believed in me and he knew that I was good and he still said that he wants me.
Are there any goals that you have set for yourself for the current season?
My goal is to play every game and always give my best for the team and of course a good season from me personally means goals and assists.
You joined Alemannia Aachen in 2017, what would you say has been your best memory at the club since then?
We used to play in the U16 Mittelrheinliga (1 league under Bundesliga) and my team had to play their game without me because I was chosen to play for the older U17 Team of Aachen (U17 Mittelrheinliga). We played against U17 Wiehl and it was a very difficult game but we had to win to play in the Bundesliga and I scored the goal that put us up 1-0, it was the most important goal in my career and a moment that I will never forget!
A Change in Formation? How Ronaldo fits into new look Manchester United
It’s official… Cristiano Ronaldo is once again a Manchester United player!
It’s official…
Cristiano Ronaldo is once again a Manchester United player!
In a move that was seemingly impossible just a few hours ago, United have acquired the 36-year-old Portuguese, who reportedly rejected a move to rivals Manchester City in favour of a Red Devils return.
Whilst I do think CR7 would have fit well into Pep Guardiola’s tactical set-up, a fairytale move back to United at this stage could work wonders for both parties.
Would Ronaldo have fit into Man City?
Yes.
Particularly at this stage of his career, a move to a slick City side who continually engulf opposition with their possession-based brand of football would have suited Cristiano well.
With how Ronaldo’s play-style has adapted over the years, his experience as an out-and-out, world class centre-forward would have resolved Pep’s number 9 issue.
It would have been chances galore for Ronaldo, with the likes of De Bruyne, Grealish, Mahrez & Gundogan all providing a plethora of creative threat.
Here is how he would have fit:
How will Ronaldo fit into this new look Manchester United side?
Quite easily.
There are a number of ways to integrate CR7 into the squad through the means of a slight system tweak, if Ole feels that this is necessary.
Whilst Ronaldo could seamlessly slot into the lone forward role in Ole’s notorious 4-2-3-1 system, I believe a strike partner in the form of Edinson Cavani would complement him well.
Besides, during his time in Turin with Juve, he’s been used to playing in a strike partnership - most recently partnering Paulo Dybala in former boss, Andrea Pirlo’s 4-4-2 system.
At 36-years-old, Ronaldo’s play-style and presence up-top has changed drastically since his departure some 12 years ago. In a positional sense, CR7 has adapted his game to function more centrally. It could be argued that he plays in a much more astute way, with his play-style more reminiscent of a classic number 9, in complete contrast to the Ronaldo we last saw back in 2009.
With this being said, here are three formations that I believe Ronaldo can shine in, without the other world-class attacking talent in Fernandes, Pogba, Cavani and Sancho being affected.
4-2-3-1
Ole’s favoured set-up
4-1-2-1-2
A potentially formidable strike partnership between two experienced bagsmen
4-1-3-2
A versatile system that presents opportunities to create overloads in attack, whilst ensuring organised solidity in a back five, as the CDM drops between the two centre-backs. Again, an experienced partnership up-top that could cause real damage to the opposition.
Harry Kane: Get busy living or get busy dying
This summer window is going to be crucial in Kane’s career…
Back in 2011 on a podcast with Bill Simmons…
Charles Barkley mentioned a list that was brought up every NBA postseason; ‘The greatest players never to win an NBA title.’
Charles Barkley, Karl Malone, John Stockton, Steve Nash and a few others, all names Barkley learned to dread, every time they were grouped together. Although it was woefully unfair, he took it as a compliment, because all the names in the list were great, or that’s what he told himself to cope.
Football is very different from the NBA.
In the NBA, there is only one title to aim for, and nothing can compensate for not having an NBA championship ring.
In football however, each player gets an opportunity to aim for three to four trophies a season, and the international tournaments are massive competitions people actually care about, unlike in basketball.
Even though Steven Gerrard never won the Premier League, he at least won other trophies like the Champions League, a couple of FA Cups and League Cups. Great players in football almost never go through their career without winning a major trophy. So, this is where we come to Harry Kane.
So Close, yet so Far
On July 11th 2021, Kane came the closest he has ever come to lifting a major trophy.
He was a penalty shootout away from winning the Euros with England, but it was not meant to be. He remains trophyless, with either club or country.
He has now played in three major finals, losing all three, and he also lost the semi-finals of the World Cup in 2018. He is 27 years old right now, ironically the exact same age Sol Campbell was, when he decided to leave Tottenham for Arsenal, in search of trophies.
Even though it is very unlikely that Kane will follow the path Campbell did, and join Arsenal, he is very much in a similar situation. With only a few years of his prime remaining, he needs to choose whether he believes he could still win something at Tottenham, or he needs to move to another club to get his hands on a trophy.
Harry Kane is unquestionably one of the greatest strikers to play in the Premier League.
He is 27 years old at the time of writing and already has over 240 PL appearances, scoring 166 goals.
He’s on course to beat Alan Shearer’s record of 260 PL goals, and it would be hard to find anyone who believes he cannot do it if he stays in the Premier League for the next 4-5 seasons. He has won multiple individual awards, three PL golden boots, the golden boot at the 2018 World Cup, PFA player of the season and fans player of the year, and many more. Records, golden boots and other acclamations are all great, but none of these can ever fill a trophy shaped hole.
Tottenham are going through quite a tough phase at the moment.
They have been on a downward slope since reaching the Champions League final in 2019.
They fired one of the greatest managers of the 21st century a week before a major final earlier this year, which they went on to lose, and have now hired a manager who seemed to be their tenth or eleventh choice for the position.
Nuno Espirito Santo should be given a lot of credit for what he achieved with Wolves in the Premier League over the last two seasons. However, he has never won a major trophy, nor has managed a really top side in his career.
Tottenham also need to make quite a few changes to their squad, which is either aging, or not good enough to challenge for trophies. They are not in the Champions League for next season and it is going to take a mighty effort for them to even challenge for the top four in the PL.
Kane might look at this and think, he doesn’t have the time to wait for Tottenham to build and start competing again.
So, if he wants a move, where could the best destination be?
Where next for Harry Kane?
Clubs like Bayern Munich, PSG, Real Madrid are very attractive destinations, and it is almost certain that he will win a trophy if he moves to one of these big-name clubs abroad. However, Kane is chasing Alan Shearer’s record, his playing style suits the premier league and being English, he would want to leave a legacy in the English game and be considered a PL legend.
Given everything about his price, stature, finances involved and the state of premier league clubs at the moment, there seems to be only one realistic destination for Kane, which is Manchester City.
City are in need of a striker, after the departure of Sergio Aguero and have the financial power to pay for the services of Kane, even though they just spent £100 million on Jack Grealish. The fact that he will get to play under Pep Guardiola and alongside the likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Jack Grealish and other world class players, Manchester will certainly be a very attractive destination.
They have a squad to consistently challenge for the PL and the Champions League year after year. With clubs like Manchester United spending big money on Jadon Sancho, and Chelsea having just spent £200 million the previous summer window, City seem like the only viable option for the trophy starved Kane.
For Kane to be considered one of the greatest ever in the Premier League, an FA Cup or a League Cup alone won’t do. He needs to win the Premier League or the Champions League, which his talent deserves.
He needs to avoid the premier league equivalent of the list which Charles Barkley is a part of and dreads. Like Andy Dufresne in ‘The Shawshank Redemption’, Harry Kane has come to a point in his career where he has a simple choice to make, get busy living or get busy dying. Some birds aren’t meant to be caged; Kane’s feathers are too bright. He’s got to decide, whether he wants to stay in his trophyless prison or get out and drive down to his Zihuatanejo.
This summer window is going to be crucial in Kane’s career. Let’s just say, we will see whether Harry Kane crawls out of 500 yards of foul-smelling sewage, the likes of which we cannot imagine, and come out clean on the other side.
Why the Premier League title is Coming Home to Manchester again this season...
Will a Manchester side will clinch the Premier League title this season?
…And we’re back!
The 2021/2022 Premier League season gets underway at 8pm tonight with top-flight newbies Brentford taking on Arsenal in the season opener.
The Premier League is notoriously difficult to predict at the best of times but with such an even playing field amongst last season’s top 6, combined with some excellent recruitment over the summer - things just got even more difficult to call.
Despite Chelsea’s magnifico re-signing of Romelu Lukaku & Virgil Van Dijk’s return to fitness for Liverpool, I believe that the Premier League title will be coming home to Manchester again this season.
Both Manchester sides have recruited well this summer with the likes of Sancho and Varane looking to take United up to the next level as well as City’s sensational coup in Jack Grealish, who looks like he was born to operate in that Manchester City XI.
So will it be a Manchester one-two?
I think so, yes.
Manchester United have shown dramatic improvement since the arrival of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who has notably built a solid foundation throughout this modernised United side.
The addition of Bruno Fernandes took the Red Devils up a level along with the retention of Paul Pogba, who will be looking to end his United career with a bang, as he looks to see out his final year of his contract before sealing his inevitable move to PSG next season.
Add in the world-class signings of Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane to an already top calibre squad and you have a side who should be looking to mount a real challenge for the Premier League title.
It’s rumoured that United are still on the hunt for a Defensive Midfielder and if they hit on the right name, a player like Ruben Neves, Corentin Tolisso, Eduardo Camavinga, Declan Rice etc, I believe they’ll have a real case to challenge.
As for the blue side of Manchester, having added another £100m onto the squad value, Pep’s side will want it all.
As always, the Champions League will be a huge priority for the Citizens, but don’t be fooled when it comes to the Premier League - that of course is another big objective, as they look to establish themselves in the history books as a truly top class side, whilst also closing the domestic trophy gap on rivals Manchester United and Liverpool.
So who will be the Premier League Champions?
In second place…
Presenting the Champions…
Stay tuned this season for some fresh, analytical football content.
The People’s Football Platform
Premier League Prophecy: Potential Awards, Top Four and the 3 unlucky Relegated Sides!
Potential Awards, Top Four and the 3 unlucky Relegated Sides!
“Individual Awards”
Golden Boot: Romelu Lukaku
Chelsea fans will witness a different Lukaku to the one who left them in 2014, he is a different animal now.
He is the full package, he possesses pace, power, much improved ball control, great hold up player and ruthless eye for goal. He’ll face competition from Harry Kane if he joins Manchester City but I think he’ll just pip it.
Playmaker Award: Bruno Fernandes
This is the hardest one to call as there is so many potential candidates.
Firstly there is the assist king in De Bruyne, there is Jadon Sancho who stacked up incredible assist numbers in the Bundesliga and then there is Fernandes who is the man who makes things happen for Manchester United. I just think Fernandes’ relentless desire to create chances will ultimately be the difference, he also rarely misses a game.
Golden Glove: Ederson
Manchester City will be so strong again defensively so the only potential rival for this award is Mendy at Chelsea. Chelsea are very strong at the back under Tuchel so I expect them to keep a number of cleans sheets.
Best Player: Joao Cancelo
Now this is an impossible one to call, it could easily be Fernandes, De Bruyne, Grealish, Kane, Kante, Salah, Mane or Dias to just name an elite few.
I expect Manchester City to win the league which is why I believe it will go to one of their players.
Cancelo may not even secure a regular starting place with very strong competition in Walker but if he can win that battle, he possesses everything to set the league on fire. He is solid defensively but he is exhilarating going forward at his best, the perfect modern day full back.
Other Awards:
Breakthrough Player: Billy Gilmour
Dark Horse: Said Benrahma
“Top 4”
Champions: Manchester City
It’s hard to look past the Premier League champions - the signing of Jack Grealish with Harry Kane to potentially follow, has elevated them to a level which could prove to be untouchable.
The back 5 that moulded into being the strongest and most reliable in Europe last season, gives them the perfect foundation. Players like Grealish, Phil Foden, Kevin De Bruyne and Raheem Sterling give them with an array of attacking talent and with Rodri providing the bridge between attack and defence, City have the complete balance. They will be so hard to beat but the competition is stronger this season as their rivals have also spent big and recruited smartly.
Runners up: Chelsea
At the end of last season Chelsea looked a far more organised team under Tuchel and the turnaround in quality of performances was astonishing.
They went on to win a remarkable Champions League title, defeating their league rivals Manchester City in the final.
With the return of now world class goal machine Lukaku about to be completed, the European champions now have a goal scorer too. That is a frightening thought when you consider just how good they were in the second half of last season and they now have Lukaku who helped Inter Milan to a shock Serie A title last season.
Third Place: Manchester United
The signings of Varane and Sancho were both essential to any possible title charge, particularly as their title rivals have inevitably strengthened. You can’t challenge for a title without keeping up with the other challengers, in fact you run the risk of moving backwards. Both signings are brilliant and Manchester United will be a better team this season
Fourth Place: Liverpool
Expect Liverpool to bounce back strong, not just because of the return of talisman Van Dijk but because the 2019/20 Premier League Champions reminded everyone of their credentials at the end of the last campaign. They showed their class when they needed it most to secure Champions League football. If Salah, Mane and Jota are all in form and new signing Ibrahima Konate can bind with Van Dijk to form a formidable partnership, Liverpool will be a dangerous team once again.
“Relegated Sides”
18th Place: Southampton
This could easily be Brentford, Norwich or Crystal Palace but I just think with the sale of Danny Ings, Southampton will struggle for goals. Che Adams is their only obvious hope and I just feel like they will struggle in the same way they did at the end of last season. Newly promoted Brentford look exciting so could cause a few upsets to secure their safety and Norwich look so much stronger now than they did after their promotion two seasons ago. The sale of Buendia is a big blow though, so they will be looking for other avenues to provide creativity for Pukki up front. Billy Gilmour is a great addition on loan and I believe he will excel in their midfield.
19th Place: Brighton
Losing White to Arsenal can’t be understated and with no replacement so far, they could well be leakier at the back. They also have the same issue in attack which saw them create and then miss so many chances last season. The style of football under Potter is great to watch and he could keep them up but he has very little at his disposal to work with unless they have a busy end to their summer transfer business.
20th Place: Watford
Newly promoted Watford have some exciting talents, with Sarr being the standout but I’m unconvinced they have enough to stay up. Sarr has been heavily linked with a move away to Spurs too which if it happens would put a nail in the coffin of any potential to stay up.
1 signing each Premier League club NEEDS to make
Here is one signing that each Premier League club should make during this window…
Here is one signing that each Premier League club should make during this window…
The following analysis was originally broadcast on the 23rd of July via BBC Radio Stoke
Arsenal - Lucas Paqueta - £30m
Despite Arsenal’s astute signing of Albert Sambi-Lokonga earlier in the window, there is still room for another midfield option.
Arsenal ranked 12th in the league when it came to big chances created and consequently seek a playmaker in midfield.
Lucas Paqueta would be a viable source of creativity in the centre of the pitch.
Last season, he amassed 14 attacking returns in 30 games from central midfield & created 49 chances during that time.
With Dani Ceballos and Martin Odegaard completing their loan spells and returning back to parent-club Real Madrid, Arsenal are now missing an experienced, disciplined and creative asset in central midfield.
Aged 23, he’s proved he can shine on the big stage - most recently producing some top class performances for Brazil, and helping them to reach the final with a couple of vital goals at Copa America.
The Gunners would need to pay around £30m for the Brazilian’s services.
Aston Villa - Leon Bailey - £30m (TRANSFER CONFIRMED)
With Jack Grealish’s pending transfer to Manchester City, it looks as though Aston Villa will need to find a viable replacement.
It goes without saying, they are not going to be able to bring in a like-for-like player who can match Grealish’s impressive stats. But they can bring in someone who plays the game in a similar vein to the England winger.
Presenting, Bayern Leverkusen’s Leon Bailey.
The Jamaican forward is an astute replacement for Aston Villa, should they lose Grealish, and would allow Dean Smith’s side to continue their positive play-style from the wings.
Bailey, who was linked with Manchester United just last season, has impressed for Leverkusen - amassing 17 attacking returns and creating 56 chances in 30 games from left wing.
Villa have of course signed Emi Buendia earlier on in the window, but I believe there is room for Leon Bailey in the forward line, should Grealish complete his proposed move to Manchester City.
Villa would need to pay around £30m for the Jamaican.
Brentford - Frank Onyeka - £9m (Transfer Confirmed)
In what is an under the radar kind of signing, the ever-shrewd Bees have completed the coup of Frank Onyeka from sister-club, FC Midtjylland.
This is a transfer that excites me.
Since Thomas Frank came in, Brentford have been associated with the notorious 4-3-3 system, but having switched to a 3-1-4-2 formation towards the end of last season, it looks as though Brentford will start the Premier League campaign with a midfield 5.
The departure of their primary right-back Henrik Dalsgaard has only added to this assumption of a system change, and the signing of a ball-winning midfielder in Frank Onyeka has all but confirmed this.
The 23-year-old Nigerian will slot nicely in the centre of a 3-5-2 system and brings a presence that the Premier League is accustomed to, earning comparisons with the likes of Yves Bissouma and fellow countryman Wilfried Ndidi.
Onyeka is a bargain at £9m and brings Champions League experience to an ambitious Brentford side who will be looking for a positive first season in England’s top flight.
Brighton - Tammy Abraham - £34m
This is a transfer that makes complete sense for both parties.
In terms of goals scored last season, Brighton ranked 15th, with just 40 goals scored.
From the quality of the chances that they produced during the 20/21 Premier League season, they should have finished the campaign with 52 goals scored.
It was the men up-front who were mainly responsible for Brighton’s misfiring infant of goal, with Neil Maupay the main culprit missing 11 big chances & Danny Welbeck not far behind, missing 9 big chances.
Tammy Abraham can be the man to end Brighton’s xG nightmare.
Abraham shone when given the opportunity under Frank Lampard, scoring 15 goals in 34 appearances and helping Chelsea to secure a top 4 finish during the 19/20 season.
Fast-forward to the Tuchel era and Tammy Abraham’s chances have dried up.
With 21 goals scored across the last couple of Premier League seasons he has shown promise.
Abraham needs to find first team minutes, because he has the ability to shine under a manager who trusts him and a team who rely on his output up top.
Brighton would need to fork out around £34m for Tammy Abraham, but could look to sign him on an initial loan basis.
Burnley - Marc Albrighton - £4m
My original suggestion of Marc Cucurella is far too exotic and out of character for Burnley, so I’ll stick to my guns and recommend a different Marc - Marc Albrighton.
At 31-years-old, Albrighton still has a lot to give and has been a regular feature for Leicester City, making 31 appearances for the Foxes in the Premier League last season.
However, just 17 of those appearances were starts, so if he fancies starting almost every game, he should get his agent to talk to Sean Dyche's side.
Dyche would snap him up fast, with Burnley lacking a solid creative and affordable option on the right flank.
Albrighton fits the quota at Burnley and with 43 chances created in those 31 appearances for Leicester last season, represents a solid option for an extremely affordable price in today’s market.
At most, Burnley would need to splash around £4m for Albrighton.
Chelsea - Erling Braut Haaland - £100m/£175m
This transfer saga feels similar to United’s initial opening with Jadon Sancho last year.
It almost feels inevitable and with Haaland’s impressive exploits in-front of goal, it seems like a transfer that any club who has the opportunity to sign him should.
In terms of goals scored last season, Chelsea ranked 8th. A rather lacklustre statistic for the team that won the Champions League.
However, in terms of big chances missed, they ranked 3rd.
Unfortunately for Chelsea, it was the new boys in Timo Werner and Kai Havertz who were the main culprits in terms of big chances missed for the Blues.
The man to put an end to this inconsistency in-front of goal is the Norwegian wonder-kid, Erling Haaland.
With 33 attacking returns in the form of 27 goals and 6 assists for Borussia Dortmund last season, Haaland not only brings a greater goal threat to Chelsea, but also mass potential.
Signing 21-year-old Haaland at this stage in his career almost guarantees a ‘double your money’ scenario for Chelsea as he will continue to get better with age and above that, it’s a signing that could genuinely take Chelsea to a different level of attacking threat.
He could cost Chelsea anywhere from £100m to £175m but with his impressive numbers aged just 21, it’s a price tag that seems worth it for this calibre of player.
Crystal Palace - Callum Hudson-Odoi - Loan
After letting go of 9 first-team squad members, Crystal Palace are in the middle of a rebuild and so far their strategy looks entirely positive.
The signings of Michael Olise, Joachim Anderson and Marc Guehi are exciting and represent exactly which direction Palace want to take their rebuild project.
Last season, Palace actually over-achieved in terms of expected goals and whilst that may sound good in principle, it means that they did not statistically create enough chances to justify the 41 goals they scored.
To back this up, Palace were ranked 19th in terms of chances created with just 33.
So clearly, they need another creative outlet who can bolster their attacking threat.
This is where Callum Hudson-Odoi enters the fold, a player who created 35 chances in 23 appearances.
The 20-year-old needs more game time at this point in his career and a loan move across London to join Patrick Vieira’s exciting rebuild could be tempting.
Hudson-Odoi would most likely join on a season-long loan, with Chelsea most likely wanting to keep hold of the promising winger for the future.
Everton - Denzel Dumfries - £20m
With the long-serving Seamus Coleman in the last year of his contract, Everton need to look towards the future.
During Ancelotti’s, albeit, short reign, the full-backs were an important part of the Toffees’ attacking threat.
In fact, the majority of Everton’s big chances came from left-back in the form of Lucas Digne, who provided 11 of Everton’s 47 big chances.
If Rafa Benitez wants to add even more threat, he should look for an attack-minded full-back like Denzel Dumfries - yes, the same player who has just had an astonishing Euro’s campaign for Netherlands, scoring 2 goals in 4 appearances.
With Dumfries, Everton would have more consistency at right-back and also strike more of a balance by causing threat from both flanks, rather than relying solely on the left side of the pitch.
Leeds United - Evander - £6m
How do you improve Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds United side?
Well, even though they have over-achieved in terms of league position and had an emphatic campaign whilst playing some scintillating football, there is always room for improvement.
Although Bielsa’s side ranked 6th for big chances created last season, most of these chances came from the wings.
As we know, especially with the recent reliability in data analysis, systems can get worked out relatively quickly in top flight football. Think back to Sheffield United.
As such, Leeds could do with a more creative outlet in the centre of the pitch to help mix up chance creation opportunities.
FC Midtjylland’s 23-year-old Brazilian midfielder, Evander, could help to solve this solution.
Evander chipped in with 8 attacking returns in 8 games in the Danish Superliga last season and comes with a lot of promise.
He’s young, cheap and has champions league experience - recently scoring during the first-leg of the Champions League qualifying game against Celtic.
At just £6m, this is a player that most fans will not be aware of, but a player who Bielsa could turn into a midfield maestro.
Leicester City - Adama Traore - £30m
Despite finishing 5th for goals scored last season, Leicester City lacked an out-and-out chance creator.
Most chances came from the middle of the pitch, so a winger who can help to find consistency for both himself and the Foxes comes in the form of Adama Traore.
Despite just 4 attacking returns in 37 appearances, Adama created 57 chances and played well in that regard.
Essentially, Adama was creating chances that were not getting converted into goals - a scenario that would have most likely been different if Raul Jimenez hadn’t got injured.
I believe that Adama would shine at an ambitious club like Leicester, under a more astute manager like Brendan Rodgers and it’s a move that, although could be deemed risky, could also turn out to work wonders for both parties.
£30m would most likely seal the deal, allowing Rodgers to align a deadly attacking trio of Barnes, Vardy & Adama.
That concludes part one of this summer transfer series. Look out for part two which will go live on the site within the next week.
Euro 2020 Final: England vs Italy Preview
England are into a final of a major competition for the first time since 1966… Is it coming home?
So that happened…
England are into a final of a major competition for the first time since 1966.
History has not repeated itself and a renewed sense of optimism has taken over a country who believe this group of players, with Southgate at the helm, can do it.
The performance against Denmark wasn’t one to take your breath away, in fact for large periods of the game Denmark were the stronger side. They controlled the midfield as England were outnumbered and struggled to cope with the intensity that Denmark were playing at.
It was only when substitutions were made, and the Danes tired in extra-time, when the momentum changed in England’s favour.
Despite getting subbed back off, I thought Grealish had a massive impact off the bench once again. Henderson helped England take back control and was more progressive on the ball (how times have changed). The penalty may have been dubious, but it was the least England deserved, they created more chances and before that point, were very unfortunate with some of the refereeing decisions.
All that really mattered to us English fans is that Kane stepped up and scored (at the second attempt).
The scenes of ecstasy and jubilation will stick with me forever, I’ve never seen an atmosphere quite like it, Wembley was buzzing. Sweet Caroline came out for a second rendition and life was really good.
In the other semi-final, Italy defeated Spain on penalties, a cruel way for the Spaniards to go out after being the better side on the day. It was the game of the tournament for me, end to end excitement, high quality football and some moments of individual brilliance.
Pedri. What a player he is going to be, he already is phenomenal.
He ran the show once again for Spain who dictated large parts of the game and undoubtedly had the better chances.
Ultimately though, the headlines went to Morata who went from hero to villain, the story of his career.
He scored a hugely important late equaliser before missing the all-important penalty in the shootout, leaving Jorginho of all people to jump, skip and hop before tapping it in the bottom corner, nerves of steel.
“My Final Prediction: England 1-0 Italy (It’s Coming Home)”
I think this game will be tight, tense and in all honesty, dull. I am not saying any English or Italian fan will be bored watching it as there is far too much at stake for that. I just think you have two sides in a position they aren’t used to, playing in a final and finals can be cagey at the best of times.
Also, Italy play a more expansive and pragmatic style but they love defending more than anything else and England have a defence first, attack second mentality under Southgate.
All I’m saying is don’t be surprised if this isn’t entertaining or pretty as both sides are desperate not to lose.
Football means everything in both countries and both nations have had their fair share of hurt in just the last 5 years alone.
The game could go slightly different if Southgate makes the switch in the starting XI I think he should make. I have learnt to trust Southgate with whatever he decides but he hasn’t been afraid to make changes, so this is something he might actually do.
I would consider bringing Henderson into the midfield as someone whose more gifted on the ball and more positive, as England need to get a hold of the midfield battle that Italy will be favourites to win.
He has experience and leadership qualities as well which will be invaluable for such a momentous occasion.
He is also a winner, he’s won the Premier League and Champions League with Liverpool and that can’t go unnoticed.
The other change I would consider making is starting Grealish on the left and Sterling on the right.
Grealish has made an impact every appearance he has made, and he would be an unpredictable factor that could just throw Italy off, who will be expecting to deal with Saka on the right on and Sterling on the left.
Sterling is also at his best on the right which is his natural position, just look how much better he was when moved out to the right against Denmark.
Foden over Mount is less important but could be a good idea too, for the brief time that Foden, Grealish and Sterling were on the pitch together, they were making things happen and looked an exciting trio.
Grealish and Foden clicked particularly and those two with their forward-thinking positivity, could just make the difference on a historic day in English football.
In Gareth we trust but the smallest margins will decide D-day and Southgate can’t afford to get it wrong, not now.
Six Questions: Verena Wieder of Bayer 04 Leverkusen
Here, Verena reflects on a successful season with Leverkusen and her goals for the next season, among other things.
Six Questions with Verena Wieder of Bayer Leverkusen…
Verena Wieder is an immensely talented young player who currently plays for Bayer 04 Leverkusen and has represented Germany at multiple youth levels.
Here she reflects on a successful season with Leverkusen and her goals for the next season, among other things.
Verena Wieder
Bayer 04 Leverkusen
I can imagine that you would have come up against some difficult opponents in your career already, are there any particular opponents who stood out in terms of their ability and talent?
I would say Pernille Harder is the strongest player that I have played against. It was fun to watch her play football, she is so technically skilled, elegant and athletic. She is a very complete player and often makes the difference.
You have had the honour of representing Germany at various youth levels, even being part of title-winning teams, what is it about wearing the national team jersey that you think makes it so special?
It's always an honour to wear the national team jersey and it's great fun to compete at the highest level with the other nations. But looking back, it's also the moments with the players during a tournament that remain in my memory. You spend a lot of time together during a tournament.
Are there any particular coaches or managers who have helped you reach where you are today that you would like to thank?
All the coaches were very different and were able to teach me different and important things, for which I am very grateful. I worked with the current U17 national coach Friederike Kromp for a long time. She helped and supported us young girls a lot during that time.
Growing up, who were your idols in the footballing world?
Cristiano Ronaldo has always fascinated me. In women's football, I was a big fan of Marta.
The recently concluded season was a memorable one for Bayer Leverkusen as they finished 5th in the table, their highest ever finish in the Frauen-Bundesliga, how would you describe your time at the club so far?
I felt very comfortable at the club from day one. I think a big factor for the good season was the positive team atmosphere. We came together really well as a team and developed a great spirit. The team is very young and I am very excited about the further development and hope to be able to contribute my part.
Are there any short-term goals that you have set for yourself for next season?
My main goal is to get through the season healthy and fit, as I have been dogged by injuries for the past few years. If health plays along, I want to help my team as much as possible to build on the good season and maybe even surpass it. For me personally, as a striker, it would of course be great to support the team with as many goals as possible.
Euro 2020: Semi-Finals Preview
Just four sides are left, with two mouth-watering ties on the horizon…
So England are still here…
It’s still coming home- life is good.
England’s demolition of Ukraine was another statement of intent from Gareth’s gutsy group, they are young, fearless, and brilliant.
Pickford, Maguire, Stones, Shaw, Rice, Sterling, Grealish, Kane are just a few names who have stepped up and delivered for their country. I said after the drab 0-0 draw against Scotland that it’s about time Southgate’s favourites delivered when it really matters, and they answered my doubts emphatically.
Maguire and Stones have been rock solid at the back, whilst Sterling and Kane have both been in inspired form in attack.
Elsewhere in the Quarter-Finals, Italy ended any hopes Belgium had of a truly ‘golden generation’ with an all-round accomplished display. They were exhilarating going forwards and a brick wall at the back, a modern adaptation on the Italy of old.
Denmark’s inspiring journey continued as they defeated a strong Czech side 2-1 to set up a mouth-watering Semi-Final with England at Wembley. Finally, Spain needed penalties to get past the stubborn Swiss, relying on a little bit of luck to progress to the Semi-Finals, where they face Italy.
“Game 1 - My Prediction: Italy 2-0 Spain”
It’s hard to look past Italy to win this match, few would have said it before a ball was kicked but going by their performances, surely they are favourites to win the tournament now.
There’s no doubt that it’s going to be a battle against a young and exciting Spanish side but Italy have been a joy to watch whilst still being formidable at the back. In Chiellini and Bonucci they also have two immensely experienced players who bring a level of leadership that the Spanish side don’t have.
Spain play eye-catching football at times but they are also wasteful.
They can’t afford to be wasteful against Italy who won’t give them many chances and if Spain do find a way through, they have to find a way past Donnarumma who at just 22-years old has been a calming presence for his back four, making world class saves game after game.
Therefore, I think Spain will find the Italian’s one step too far and Mancini will lead his country to a remarkable final, just 3 years since Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup.
“Game 2 - My Prediction: England 2-1 Denmark”
This is it. It is time for heroes. Heroes that will live on eternally in the memory of English football. England have a chance that may not come around again in most people’s lifetime.
They have a chance to finally end the curse which has lasted 55 long-years since the famous 1966 triumph and make amends for 1996 when England fell at the same stage at Wembley stadium, the same venue for Wednesday’s highly anticipated Semi-Final.
Southgate’s message should be clear- go out and play without fear, take the game to Denmark and keep doing what you have been doing throughout the tournament and you will win.
Denmark are a very good side and deserve enormous credit for getting this far but England at their best are superior. They have better players and have yet to concede a goal. So, anything but a win will be massively disappointing in front of over 60,000 fans at Wembley.
To get this far again and fall short even as the favourites, really would be history repeating itself.
This group of players have already overcome one big psychological barrier, beating Germany in a major tournament in a controlled and calm fashion.
So, this next barrier can also be conquered, setting up a momentous final on the 11th where football finally could find it’s way back home.
Euro 2020: Quarter-Finals Preview
We are down to the last 8 remaining sides at Euro 2020 after an exhilarating Round of 16…
It’s getting serious now…
We are down to the last 8 remaining sides at Euro 2020 after an exhilarating Round of 16 which saw 29 goals scored in just 8 games.
It saw Spain defeat Croatia 5-3 in a end-to-end thriller.
It saw Switzerland shock France with two late goals, forcing extra time and then penalties, in which the Swiss knocked the World Champions out.
It saw Belgium knock out the holders Portugal and of course it saw England finally get revenge on Germany, after countless years of hurt.
“Game 1 - My Prediction: Switzerland 1-3 Spain”
Switzerland may be riding the high which comes with the biggest upset of the competition so far but they come up against a Spanish side who have found their attacking rhythm and fluidity. They have a range of players who can hurt Switzerland’s defence and Yann Sommer in goal.
Ferran Torres, Pablo Sarabia, Pedri and even Alvaro Morata now he is finding his stride, are in form and are all exciting players.
Switzerland’s comeback against France wasn’t made out of luck, they deserved the penalty shoot-out which is then a complete 50-50. The way they isolated Kante and didn’t allow France to see the game out was impressive and their hero Haris Seferovic scored two late goals, both brilliant in different ways.
He now has a chance to put his torrid time in Spain when he played for Real Sociedad firmly behind him and change his perception in a country that saw a shadow of who he is now.
“Game 2 - My Prediction: Belgium 2-1 Italy”
This is seriously hard to call.
Italy were fantastic in the group stages but were less convincing against Austria and had to show a different side to their game. They dug deep and in extra-time, they found a way through Austria, twice in fact.
However, it will surely be worrying to Roberto Mancini the players that Belgium posses and the constant threat that Romelu Lukaku causes through his strength and power when he runs at any defence. Although, Belgium will be missing two-star players in Eden Hazard (who ran the show at times against Portugal) and Kevin De Bruyne.
Italy have a lot going for them, they are stronger defensively and have a world class keeper. Ultimately, I just believe Belgium will find a way to win in extra-time, as it really is now or never for this golden generation.
“Game 3 - My Prediction: Czech Republic 1-3 Denmark”
Czech Republic caused the other major upset of the Round of 16 when they defeated the Netherlands.
They showcased what they are all about, they have the ability to play eye-catching football but also the height and dangerous players in the air to go more direct too.
There have been several standout players of them but nobody comes close to Patrick Shick who is having an incredible individual tournament. With 4 goals in 4 games, he is just one goal behind Cristiano Ronaldo who currently leads the way for the golden boot.
As for Denmark, their remarkable story continued in emphatic fashion against Wales, with the 4-0 win their most impressive of the tournament so far.
Once again Mikkel Damsgaard proved why he is such an exciting talent, likewise with attacking full-back Joakim Maehle who scored a brilliant solo goal.
These talents as well as an experienced, solid core, make Denmark a difficult side to look past. The Czech’s will be a step up from Wales but I still think they will progress.
“Game 4 - My Prediction: Ukraine 1-2 England”
First of all I want to say a big congratulations to Gareth Southgate, I will be the first to criticism him when he gets it wrong so respect where it’s due when he gets it right. He did exactly that against Germany, changing formation to a back 5 to counter Germany’s back 5.
The reason that was so key was because Germany’s style of play which saw them thrash Portugal was all about getting the ball to their wing backs who in Joshua Kimmich and Robin Gosens, provided chance after chance. By playing a back 5, England were able to mummify that outlet by primarily Luke Shaw and Kieran Trippier but also Kyle Walker and Harry Maguire if needed, who were playing either side of John Stones.
I still thought two holding midfielders was too negative and we saw when Jack Grealish came on what a difference he made, so surely he has to start against Ukraine. England should revert to a back four against Ukraine which should allow both Mason Mount and Grealish to start.
Sterling deserves to keep his place, Southgate’s unpopular decision to keep faith in Sterling has proven to be a success as he is England’s top scorer with 3 goals. Harry Kane getting his first goal was important too and for a player who feeds off confidence, expect more goals from him from now on.
All signs point to an England win, but it can’t be forgotten how strong Ukraine have been throughout this tournament. Oleksandr Zinchenko’s tournament came to life against Sweden and his lovely goal followed by a 121st minute assist in extra-time helped his nation to a massive victory.
An England win though means a return to Wembley for the Semi-Final, it’s quite simply an opportunity that doesn’t often come around and cannot be missed.
Euro 2020: Round of 16 Preview
The stage is set for the knockouts, where the tournament really gets started.
All six groups are now complete…
Six 4th placed teams and two unlucky 3rd placed sides have been knocked out and the stage is set for the knockouts, where the tournament really gets started.
Firstly, I think when reflecting on the Group stages, it’s important to reflect upon and remember the shocking, horrific and almost tragic day in which Christian Eriksen collapsed and had to be given CPR on the pitch after suffering a heart attack.
Our thoughts at Let’s Talk Ball are firmly with Eriksen and his family at this time and we are incredibly thankful and glad to see he has now left hospital in a stable position.
The biggest surprise from the groups were how underwhelming the ‘dark horses’ Turkey were.
I am in the large percentage of people who fancied them to do well at Euro 2020 but I am not going to pretend I didn’t say what I did. The proof is in my previous piece after all!
The group of death delivered the entertainment we all hoped for and as I predicted, Hungary gave a good account for themselves.
As for the home nations, England and Wales progressed, with Wales’ victory over Turkey being a particularly impressive result. England just progressed.
Scotland fans thought that a 0-0 draw with England won them the tournament but sadly 1 point from three games isn’t enough to progress.
Then there was Italy, Roberto Mancini’s workman-like, yet stylish and exciting to watch Italy. It is great having them back in a major tournament and they have to be one of the favourites now.
“Game 1: My prediction - Wales 1-2 Denmark”
Two teams with an enormous amount of togetherness and pride battling it out in a knockout game which means a great deal to both nations.
Denmark have shown incredible courage and bravery after what happened to their teammate and friend.
They are also a talented team with some young players having breakthrough tournaments, Damsgaard and Maehle being the standouts. That is why despite the brilliance of Aaron Ramsey and Gareth Bale at Wales’ disposal, Denmark will have too much for the Welsh.
“Game 2: My prediction - Italy 2-0 Austria ”
This was an easier one to decide, Italy have been fantastic so far and are very strong defensively.
Their high press has worked wonders and I expect it to continue here against an Austria side very dependent on David Alaba’s quality.
“Game 3: My prediction - Netherlands 2-1 Czech Republic ”
Whilst Czech Republic aren’t a bad side at all, England showed on Tuesday night that they aren’t anything special.
Netherlands have had a much stronger start to Euro 2020 than England, so I would expect them to get the better of the Czech’s over 90 minutes.
Wijnaldum and Dumfries to score for the Dutch and Soucek for the Czech’s, you heard it here first.
“Game 4: My prediction - Belgium 3-2 Portugal ”
This is the first mouth-watering tie of the knockout phases and it promises to be a goal fest.
Of course, that probably means it’ll finish 0-0 and be decided by penalties. My theory is there is just too many goals in both of these sides.
Ronaldo is a goal machine as is Lukaku and if Fernandes plays (and plays well) then both him and De Bruyne are as good as it gets in terms of attacking midfielders.
It should be a great spectacle and I just have a feeling Belgium will come out on top as Portugal have too many underperformers in their side so far. Dias and Fernandes being the biggest culprits.
“Game 5: My prediction - Croatia 1-2 Spain ”
It may have taken the Spanish a while to get going in Euro 2020 but once they did, they really did.
The biggest win of the tournament so far in fact and whilst Slovakia may have been dreadful, Spain really did come alive.
Sarabia and Ferran Torres will be hugely important to Spain’s hopes as this tournament progresses.
Croatia also displayed their best performance thus far in their final group game against Scotland as Modric sealed a 3-1 win with an audacious outside of the foot finish.
However, they aren’t the Croatia of 2018 and this will be where their journey ends.
“Game 6: My prediction - France 3-1 Switzerland ”
France had a mixed group stages, but I’m convinced we haven’t seen the best of them yet.
Mbappe was quiet and that spells worry for the rest of Europe when you consider how much better he and France could still get.
Pogba and Benzema were the standouts for me.
Benzema was quiet in the first two games but came alive against Portugal, grabbing a brace which could have easily have been more.
Pogba was on another level against Germany and Portugal, finding the gaps and executing majestic passes, not to mention some of the skill he displayed.
Switzerland saved their best performance for last against Turkey as Shaqiri stole the show with two world class goals.
France should be comfortable here but I just have a feeling it will go to extra-time before France put the after burners on and make the Swiss pay.
“Game 7: My prediction - England 2-1 Germany ”
Do I really believe that? I’m not sure but I really want to.
England haven’t impressed me so far and I’m far from convinced by the negative approach by Southgate.
That approach has just about worked so far, although on another day we would have lost to Scotland.
Sancho being left out is bizarre considering he has scored 50 goals and got 46 assists for club and country over the last three seasons. For me, him and Grealish should start against Germany as should Bellingham in midfield alongside Mount, with Rice sitting.
Tell me that’s too positive for a game at Wembley in front of a half capacity stadium?
I understand we cannot go all-out attack against a German side that is likely to dominate possession and will hurt us badly if we’re not slightly cautious. Yet that doesn’t mean we can’t play some of our best attacking talent and really give it a go?
I think anyone would rather see England go out having played well and attacked the game than to go out on penalties or by a 95th minute 1-0 winner having sat a back 7 (including the holding midfielders, most likely Phillips, and Rice) behind the ball for the whole match. Germany have vulnerabilities, they aren’t the Germany of 2014 and they already have been exposed by Hungary.
“Game 8: My prediction - Sweden 1-1 Ukraine - Sweden to progress via penalties”
Sweden looked good in the group stages and have topped a group including Spain, so I could see them sneaking a 2-1 win over Ukraine.
However, Ukraine aren’t a bad side either and on paper these two are evenly matched.
Let’s not forget, Ukraine almost got a draw against the Netherlands in their first game and have players capable of hurting Sweden.
Despite having not yet scored, Isak has been very exciting as I thought he might be, and I could see him getting his first goal of the tournament here.
Forsberg on 3 goals has been Sweden’s standout so far and he is also a major threat from both set pieces and open play.
Gareth Southgate got it wrong vs Scotland but he’s not the only one at fault
Should Southgate be taking all the blame for everything that went wrong against Scotland? I don’t think so personally.
Let me clear something up…
Firstly, to all the people that have been saying us English fans are somehow ‘arrogant’ and ‘entitled’ for singing it’s ‘coming home’; you need to understand that 90% of the people who sing that, don’t actually believe it.
However, in a country that has always promised so much in terms of ‘golden generations’ but provides nothing but heartbreak, fans need something to bring each other together and keep the spirits up.
So let us sing our song and enjoy the ride whilst it still lasts because like any roller coaster, the fun stops as soon as the ride ends and England’s ride can often be short lived.
With that out of the way, onto the main piece.
Should Southgate take all the blame?
I don’t think so personally.
Yes, the system with two holding midfielders in Declan Rice and Kalvin Phillips was too negative, as was the decision to not bring on Jadon Sancho, once again highlighting his bias towards players playing in the Premier League.
However, I have to say, certain players let themselves down and massively underperformed. I believe there is too many players in that England squad right now who don’t turn up when it really matters.
Harry Kane is a fantastic striker and has been excellent for both Spurs and England but when it really counts, has he ever really delivered?
I feel we see a better John Stones at Manchester City too and Raheem Sterling too.
I know Sterling had a poor season for City and its questionable why he wasn’t subbed off against Scotland, but I can’t remember when he’s really performed for England, when it really matters. Don’t tell me against an ageing Croatian side because bar the goal, he was awful in that game too.
Right now, I would say the reason for England’s underwhelming performances and poor result vs Scotland is a collective fault.
What should Southgate do?
Southgate NEEDS to be more positive against Czech Republic and stop playing the game of only picking his favourites.
I would like to see Jude Bellingham, Jack Grealish and Jadon Sancho start against Czech Republic.
Bellingham is brilliant at breaking up play and is always so composed on the ball, this might sound crazy as he’s only 17-years-old but I believe he is already better than Rice, Phillips and Henderson. He really is that good.
As for Sancho, he provides width, pace, and the ability to play that killer through ball to set free Kane who is desperate for some Sancho like service.
Finally, Grealish brings something that bit different, a player who will carry the ball, take players on and win free-kicks or even penalties. He is the X-Factor that this England team is crying out for.
As for the players mentioned previously who have been underperforming, I would say its’ partly down to Southgate to make some bold calls. But if he does keep faith with his favourites then it’s up to them to deliver.
If they don’t, then they have to ask themselves, have they really done enough for England as senior players or have they once again disappointed on the big stage?
Football may not be coming home but decisions made now by both Southgate and the performances of the players he selects, will determine how long the ‘football’s coming home’ dream can last.
Tactical Analysis: England vs Croatia - is 4-2-3-1 the answer?
Tactical Analysis on England’s performance vs Croatia
England’s Euro 2020 campaign kicks off with a win…
A 1-0 win, granted, but it all counts the same.
I don’t like being critical of the national team, or Southgate and his staff, for that matter.
But reflection in any setting is important, so it’s only right that we analyse the opening performance of England’s Euro 2020 campaign.
This is not intended to reflect any negativity, I actually feel positive about the squad in this tournament.
In fact, in the build-up to the tournament I’ve been whole-heartedly optimistic about the squad - as can be heard on BBC Radio Stoke
With England breaking their curse and beginning the Euro’s tournament with a win, you cannot fault the players and staff too much, but there’s always room for improvement.
Is 4-2-3-1 the answer?
When the finalised squad was released, I predicted a 4-2-3-1 set-up due to the selection of 3 out-and-out defensive midfielders in Jordan Henderson, Declan Rice & Kalvin Phillips.
Of course, with Henderson still seeking match-fitness, the duo of Phillips and Rice was the obvious selection.
This double-pivot was integral to achieving a clean sheet against the tricky Croats.
It ensured that there was flexibility throughout the team, without sacrificing balance in defence.
IN-POSSESSION: HOW WE SHOULD HAVE PLAYED
In-possession, England often shifted into a 4-3-3 system, which saw the likes of Kalvin Phillips progressing slightly further up the pitch, as Declan Rice slotted into a holding midfield role.
As we’ve seen this season with Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City side, flexibility is key in achieving greater numbers in attack. Over the course of the season, we've seen Joao Cancelo assume an inverted free-roam role, in which he is given licence to join the midfield and perform as an additional central midfielder. This set-up saw City play with a back three when in possession, allowing them to create a vicious overload in attack. It is worth noting that whilst City’s main formation was 4-3-3, the same can be done in an initial 4-2-3-1 set-up.
At times during the game against Croatia, England’s Kieran Trippier, deployed as a left-back, pushed up in a slightly inverted role (nowhere near as extreme as Cancelo for City).
Meanwhile, Walker progressed into the opponents final-third a handful of times, but it was always through overlapping runs, forcing him out wide with limited options.
In my opinion, there was a lack of inverted runs throughout our full-backs and I believe it is the fundamental reason as to why we did not control the game in the second-half. It would have offered an overload in the midfield and would have allowed for greater control of the game overall - something of which we failed to achieve in the second-half.
Due to the versatility of this 4-2-3-1 formation, allowing England to progress with the ball in an adapted 4-3-3 system when in-possession, the holding midfielder in Declan Rice should have dropped between Mings and Stones, to form an out-and-out back three.
HOW WE SHOULD HAVE PLAYED IN-POSSESSION: inverted wing-backs creating a central overload in midfield.
Out of Possession: How We Should Have Played
Of course, with this English overload in the centre of the pitch, defensive organisation is key in achieving balance.
As such, when Croatia re-assume possession, a low-block can easily be incorporated through Declan Rice dropping between the two centre-backs to create a back-five, with the two wing-backs providing the most width.
Phillips and Mount would sit just in-front of Rice, whilst Kane would drop very-slightly deeper than Foden and Sterling, as he usually does.
In fairness to Southgate, the low-block that England set-up with in the second half worked really well and frustrated the Croats by limiting options.
It’s this sort of defensive system that has seen Chelsea nullify attacking threat this season, assuming a low block with an organised back-five.
HOW WE SHOULD HAVE PLAYED OUT OF POSSESSION: Rice dropping between Stones and Mings to create a back five. Perfect for nullifying attacking threat and preparing for counter-attacking transitions.
The Verdict
Overall, Southgate got the majority of decisions correct.
A win is a win, and although control was lost in the second-half, you have to bear in mind the 27-degree-heat conditions that prevented usual pressing.
In terms of personnel, I would have liked to have seen Jack Grealish come on for Phil Foden, instead of Marcus Rashford, who I believe is carrying a slight knock.
I thought the introduction of Bellingham for Kane was spot on, as it allowed us to preserve Kane who was rendered impractical in those last-ten minutes, as England looked to break on the counter - thanks to pressure from Croatia.
That is why I was a little shocked to see Calvert-Lewin brought on for the final few minutes in these conditions.
This is where I would have looked to bring Bukayo Saka, who is comfortable nullifying the opposition and offers a plethora of pace for counter-attacking transitions.