For the Love of the Beautiful Game

Jamaican player happily takes a selfie with Lionel Messi after match

2015-06-22T05:56:00.000-07:00

Even the best in the game refer to Argentine and Barcelona’s Lionel Messi’s genius as ‘someone from a different planet’. Other soccer players around the world also appreciate the greatness that is Lionel Messi. They must have a reason for doing that. Fans recognize him in the blink of an eye as the best soccer player on the planet. It is almost a given that Messi would bag his fifth FIFA Ballon d'Or next year. And now, fellow players seem to be grabbing the chance to act like fan boys.

As part of the Copa America tournament, on Jun 20, 2015, Argentina took on Jamaica, a match that was won by Messi’s side, 1-0. The Jamaican players at least had the chance to be on the same pitch as Messi, and one player took full advantage of that. He took a selfie with his opponent right there on the pitch.

That’s totally a fan boy’s work. But it is also totally an example of the respect that Messi receives from all around the soccer world. This perhaps is also a first of its kind in the history of football greats. Lucky we, to be in the same generation as others that watches Messi live in action.

CR7, That is the name of a newly discovered galaxy too

2015-06-19T00:57:00.000-07:00

That symbolically makes Cristiano Ronaldo all the more larger than life. But would that make the Portuguese star who has been one of football's brightest stars for many years look like even bigger than Messi? Yeah, albeit somewhat deceivingly as because astronomers at the European Southern Observatory have named a newly-discovered galaxy CR7 – and while that officially stands for Cosmos Redshift 7, a measure of its place in cosmic time – has now made him an entire galaxy, apart from making him a true galactico. Of course, the astronomers, the team of scientists led by David Sobral from the University of Lisbon, added that the nickname was definitely inspired by the Real Madrid forward whom they wanted to honour. According to the astronomers, CR7 is "three times brighter than the brightest distant galaxy known up to now." Incidentally, it now becomes a matter of conjecture as to how Ronaldo's great rival Lionel Messi can find a response to that.

Zinedine Zidane says Paul Pogba is extraordinary

2015-06-19T00:49:00.000-07:00

When Zinedine Zidane says that compatriot Paul Pogba is ‘extraordinary’; can he be far from the truth? The fact that almost all the big clubs including Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester City and a few others are looking to sign the France international despite Pogba, 22, having signed a contract extension with the Champions League runners-up early last season, tying himself to the Bianconeri until 2019, must be some sort of corroboration in this regard.

Zinedine Zidane has hailed the Juventus star as "a complete player". "I think he's fantastic. What I like about him is that he has everything. He's a complete player, who is also capable of scoring goals, because he gets forward a lot. In terms of his football qualities, he is extraordinary," Zidane says.

"A lot of clubs are interested. But it's only natural, big clubs are interested in talented players. For him to improve, it's important to have a healthy environment around him, and I hope he'll have that all the time."

Zidane’s opinion about Pogba would most likely only intensify the fight among the big clubs interested in luring the French star away from the Turin club. Most of all, Paul Pogba needs to continue to ensure that he is amidst the right support system to be able to consistently perform at the highest level wherever he is headed – if at all – or even if he continues to ply his trade in Italy for that matter. Amidst the interest being shown by the biggest clubs of the world despite Pogba tying himself to the Bianconeri until 2019, for now, playing the waiting game is what the French international needs to play until he is able to land himself the best bargain possible – in case, he harbours a secret intention of leaving Juventus. Nevertheless, the possibility of his current club receiving an irresistible offer in lieu of the prodigious Frenchman’s signature on the dotted line cannot also be ruled out.

Why it is natural for Neymar to put the seal on his Barca contract extension till 2020

2015-06-18T02:03:00.000-07:00

To begin with, the contract extension is worth €12 million net per year through 2020. Hence, it was not at all surprising when some reports have said signing the contract will be a mere formality as only the stunning end to the Blaugrana season and the club's presidential elections have prevented the deal's official completion. Besides, Neymar has had a remarkable season with 43 goals in all competitions to his name as part of Barcelona's record-setting attack. The formal signing will be done in August, which would make Neymar the club's second-highest paid player behind Lionel Messi.

Most importantly, some football pundits are already saying that they see Neymar donning the crown that Messi wears now when it’s time. Lionel Messi is, undoubtedly, the best footballer in the history of football and is the hot favourite to claim his fifth Ballon d'Or award at the end of the year. Messi himself has been fortunate enough to have been surrounded by world-class talent from the moment he made his professional debut at only 17 years of age. Having learned alongside teammates of the calibre of Ronaldinho, Samuel Eto'o or Thierry Henry definitely helped him become an unstoppable forward capable of terrorising rivals with ease. In the same manner, Neymar is growing in skill and stature under the tutelage of Lionel Messi who is no longer a silent teenager but an influential leader, and it puts him in a position to play a decisive role in the nurturing of others, a shoulder for aspiring youngsters to lean on while on the search for greatness – the likes of Neymar especially.

After a difficult first year in which he had to deal with adapting to a completely new country, absorb the most complex footballing culture on the planet and even deal with fraud accusations, the young Brazilian bounced back with a season to remember. Messi's indisputable support from both a sporting and personal perspective has helped Neymar grow into the player major European heavyweights such as Real Madrid, Chelsea or Bayern Munich always knew he had the potential to become. Creating spaces for each other, providing a wide outlet, throwing diagonal runs to receive looped passes from far. You name it, they got it all.

Numbers never lie and, especially in this case, they speak for themselves. In the 2014-15 season, the 23-year-old found the net on 39 occasions, a staggering 24 more times than in his first year at the Camp Nou. His 10 goals in the Champions League helped him become the competition's joint top goal-scorer (joint with juggernauts Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi, of course), proving a remarkable ability to improve his performance when under pressure at the biggest stage.

Barcelona fans are still buzzing with euphoria after their team lifted a record second treble. Unquestionably, such memorable heights are hard to come by even in many a glittering football career.

Van Gaal’s United have to accomplish much next season

2015-06-16T05:36:00.001-07:00

Despite a fourth-place finish in the Premier League, Louis van Gaal’s first season as the club´s manager at Manchester United is still being viewed to be indifferent by some pundits. On the other hand, some have viewed it as an acceptable campaign for Van Gaal and his team as they secured a place in the Champions League playoff round. However, it can be said without much apprehension that Van Gaal's success in guiding United back into the Champions League was not an achievement worthy of lavish praise though given the fact that they spent a lot of money last summer.

The lowest point of United’s campaign this season is easily the MK Dons defeat in the Capital One Cup. The fact is that they were not comparable to the Man United teams we have come to expect under Sir Alex Ferguson. As former United striker, Michael Owen puts it: "If they had started the season poorly and got better through to the end, you might think they are moving forward, but I still don't know what their identity is. I still don't know what type of team they are. Are they meant to have flying wingers, are they meant to be strong in midfield? What is a Louis van Gaal Man United team?"

Considering the makeup of United´s forward line, it becomes tough to assess how they will perform next season, with Radamel Falcao no longer part of Van Gaal's squad after an unsuccessful season on loan from Monaco, while doubts persist over the future of Robin van Persie at United. Although Wayne Rooney is a reliable goal threat, he is not going to be around forever. It seems that they have a huge void up front. They perhaps need to spend a whole lot more to compete and they have already spent a lot since Van Gaal arrived. To sum up, Van Gaal has much to prove in his second campaign as United boss.

World Football Governing Body FIFA Unveils Supposed Moment of Truth Teaser

2011-12-05T07:12:00.001-08:00

With the world football governing body FIFA announcing the names of the trio short-listed for FIFA Ballon d'Or 2011 from among the list of 23 of the world’s best players, the feeling of being teased comes easy. (Of course, that’s how it’s been all along though).

Because, who gets to lay his hands on the coveted award for the best player in the world for the year running, which is quickly approaching to its fag end, will only be made known early next month rather year. But, till then, you can expect Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Xavi Hernandez to keep their fingers crossed; no less, fans will be as anxious.

Apparently, the panel of jury has its task cut out in deciding the winner from among the elite three. Each one of them has had an exceptional season in the year about to go by, for both country and club. As a matter of fact, only after merging FIFA's World Player of the Year crown and France Football's Ballon d'Or last year, did this particular award has come to exist; Messi having scooped the inaugural honors that same year. And, the Argentina and Barcelona star forward is tipped to emerge winner this time around too. Still, you never know.

If you have noticed, the finalists of this edition of FIFA’s biggest individual award for players happen to ply their trades in the Spanish La Liga. Does that mean Spain is home to the best football league in the world? No matter what, it has to mean that the La Liga boasts of the world’s best three players though.

In all possibility, the FIFA award ceremony, slated for early January next year, will definitely not only be the world’s biggest soccer stars’ show. Because, Barcelona’s Pep Guardiola, Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho, and Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson will also be vying for the 2011 FIFA Coach of the Year award.

As well, it does not matter whether FIFA nominates Swede International and AC Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic for any their awards or accolades; they simply cannot stop Ibra from believing that he is the best in the world. This is what Messi’s former Barcelona teammate has been quoted as saying:

"In my head I am the strongest of all. I certainly don't need the Ballon d'Or to prove that I am number one."

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They Thought That Gary Speed Was an Open Book

2011-11-29T03:53:00.001-08:00

With Gary Speed passing away under mysterious circumstances at an untimely age of 42, when he was found hanged dead last Sunday morning, a pall of gloom has all but shrouded the footballing world. The Wales manager’s mates and close associates thought that they had known him well, and have duly loved him for everything he was.

Paradoxically, the English Premier League great only leaves behind a legacy which is one of mystery, with his book of life closed for good, and never to be opened, even as everybody are grappling for answers as to why this desperately unfortunate event had to come to pass.

The unrestrained tributes, eulogies, and condolences flowing in from all quarters for the fallen hero ever since, does say that Gary was highly respected, loved, and admired. And now, he will only be missed. Gary’s former teammates, competitors, and associates who have known him during his playing days across spells with Leeds United, Everton, Newcastle United and Bolton Wanderers, and in the process, having made over 500 club appearances besides earning 85 Wales caps, have only managed to express shock and disbelief; who they have known the MBE award winner for, was not someone who would commit suicide.

Every report on preceding encounters with Speed as narrated by friends and family of the former Premier League star, are one of cheer, laughter, and jokes. If at all, there was something hideous playing which was potent enough to drive the much-loved former football star to committing suicide, nobody seemed to have a clue. All said and done; this is one wicked consequential turn which cannot be undone.

What if, Gary Speed had a way of grasping before the fateful incident that the news of his demise would have devastated a lot of people, or that he now knows a wave of mourning is sweeping the football world in the wake of his passing away, what must he be grappling with?

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Everything cannot go Right for Everybody

2011-11-24T22:30:00.001-08:00

These days, Chelsea sound like the troubled lot. As if everything cannot go right for everybody, this time around sounds like the Blues’ turn to stand up to some bad times and then come out unscathed. At the start of the Premier League season, Arsenal appeared to have been dealing with a similar situation, or worse still. Apparently, the Gunners have seen off the trough in their campaign this season with flying colors even as they have come out victorious in many an encounter lately in all competitions. Mostly, thanks to Robin van Persie’s Henry-esque recent displays though.

As it appears, at least, some side has to be going through some sort of a downtime. It means that if one team is going through a winning phase, it is at the cost of another team; in all possibility, a marker of a truly competitive league. However, one team has been typically immune to this cruel turn of events – Manchester United, the defending champions. If at all, opponents have only managed to inflict one off defeats which of course were not enough to throw them into some precarious situation; the Red Devils have always refused to be genuinely threatened to be pushed out of contention; be it in the domestic league or elsewhere, in the elite European stage.

Even the English Premier League high-flyers Manchester City happen to somehow produce uncharacteristic results when it comes to competing with the best in Europe. Last heard, City’s qualification for the last-16 stage of the UEFA Champions League still hangs in the balance following a 1-2 defeat in their last game against Italian Napoli.

Perhaps, it is just that, only a true champion side stands to emerge victorious at the end. There are just too many uncertainties to contend with; too many twists and turns to be maneuvered before you can lay your hands on that elusive honor.

Crucial Acid Test Awaits Liverpool over the Next Two Weeks

2011-11-18T06:52:00.001-08:00

In anticipation of a string of tough encounters over the next fortnight, Liverpool enthusiasts must be all but having their fingers crossed. That’s probably because the Reds have entered a phase of their fight for trophies where they can no longer pretend, but face up to some tough questions. Thus far, Kenny Dalglish’s men have only been promising, shining only in patches followed by one other odd slump along the way.

As well, pundits and fans alike were hardly heard writing the Merseysiders off. Liverpool supposed to be only getting stronger with quality additions to their squad in Luis Suarez, Andy Carroll, Charlie Adam, Jordan Henderson, Craig Bellamy, Stewart Downing and Sebastian Coates as they eventually end up finding a winning streak, must have much to do with it. Besides, the season still has a long way to go.

First, Liverpool visit Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea in a Premiership fixture on Sunday. And then, the red-hot league leaders Manchester City come calling at their doorstep subsequent to which, the Reds travel to West London to battle it out with the Blues yet again in a Carling cup tie, over the next two weeks. These three huge games in a row are understandably vital for Liverpool as they only occupy the sixth position in the league table at this stage, while the Merseysiders stand to be exposed if at all; many agree unabated that Liverpool are genuine title challengers albeit there have been no convincing statements of intent expressed by the biggest stakeholders as such.

Keeping with the marquee matches that await Liverpool, the media also seems to have trained the spotlight on them. While as, a host of Reds stars have attracted attention when they took to expressing what they believe. Young Jordan Henderson, 21, has been in and out of Dalglish’s starting XI since his arrival at the club, and he believes that he has more to offer to the club even as he pledges to keep on working hard to justify his true worth. And then, the former Blackpool midfielder Charlie Adam, who had earned widespread praise for his efforts for his previous club, says that he is only too keen to prove himself at Anfield as well.

If anything, the next fortnight promises to bring home ample opportunities for those at Anfield who all have a point to prove or two even as, the news of Jamie Carragher attaining match fitness prior to Liverpool’s first Blues game might sound like a good omen for fans.

On a different note, the possibility of Liverpool not winning the Premiership title during his time at the club has been rankling with Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard no end. Having won almost everything including the Champions League, UEFA Cup, FA Cup and Carling Cup thus far, the talismanic Reds midfielder revealed that the thought of winning the title is something he thinks about almost everyday.

But, that’s one wish which threatens to break Gerrard’s heart as much as the legend of Anfield stands the chance of realizing his one unfulfilled dream.

Arsenal’s Additional Fight in Retaining Vital Talents

2011-11-15T18:23:00.001-08:00

Article first published as Arsenal’s Additional Fight in Retaining Vital Talents on Technorati.

Since the start of the new season, the Arsenal squad has probably gone through one of the major overhauls visibly for unsavory reasons; players wanting to stay no more. And, the Gunners’ key players continue to be targeted for potential transfers as if losing their most influential players specifically in Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri along the way was not enough. Apparently, it means that Arsenal’s additional fight in retaining their vital players besides the battlefield called the Premier League continues to irk the Emirates Stadium.

More often than not, it’s the elite clubs that are always on the prowl to snatch emerging as well as established talents from across the horizon. And then, going by how much the Gunners have been at the receiving end of this very hazard, the question of if Arsenal have fallen down a few notches too many lately goes begging. Somehow, things make the historic club’s vital talents look like unable to resist the temptation no more, of shifting base to greener and fertile pastures. It could also mean that the Emirates Stadium having somewhat lost its sheen in terms of being at par with the biggest.

Of course, Arsenal make for a much improved picture at this stage; mostly, thanks to their recent string of winning performances. As if, the Gunners have turned the corner after a difficult start to the campaign while as looking like they have returned to the club's glory days, people have almost stopped talking about their downfall. It does also mean that Arsenal are on the right track for the time being. But, besides their fight for trophies, a lot will depend on how well they eventually manage to keep their important cogs of the team intact while as rising above the lurking transfer targets of many a potent club.

In the same vein, Barcelona’s Cesc Fabregas who remains a self-confessed fan of the Gunners must know better when he says that Arsenal simply cannot afford to lose their current captain and talismanic striker Robin van Persie. Incidentally, the Dutch international is quickly approaching the end of his current contract with the club. And then, he has not let people know of any concrete plans for now. As a result, Arsenal are forced to stall contract-renewal talks until the end of this season.

As well, the news of Arsenal’s young and talented Jack Wilshere alongside the likes of Eden Hazard, Mario Gotze, Rafinha Alcantara and Iker Muniain – all non-Gunners – emerging as Real Madrid transfer target sounds like another niggling concern to contend with for Arsenal even though, the injured England international has only recently pledged the rest of his career to the Emirates Stadium.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic Makes for a Hot-Headed Devil-may-Care Picture

2011-11-14T06:56:00.001-08:00

Swede AC Milan striker’s autobiography “I am Zlatan Ibrahimovic” hit the shelves only recently. Zlatan’s straight-on-the-face but controversial comments in the book have already created a storm even as, the 30-year-old’s Milan teammate Massimo Ambrosini says he does not have any problem with the content, and believes that what’s written in the book is only Ibrahimovic. If anything, the former Barcelona forward does sound like a man who is hot-headed and wields a devil-may-care attitude.

Snippets from Zlatan’s book which have been making news lately could prove to be convincing much better. To begin with, the AC Milan player’s troubled stint at Barcelona has come to pass as a source of quite a few apparent sick-burns for him. As the Sweden international reveals, he had sought a move to Real Madrid when he was engineering a move away from the Catalan club in 2010; only to be denied outright. As well, Zlatan says to have told Barcelona president Sandro Rosell that bad leadership had been the cause of the collapse of his earlier much-hyped move to the Spanish giant from Inter Milan. And then, the 6’5” striker claims that he was pressurized into kissing the badge at the time of his unveiling at the Camp Nou in 2009.

On the other side, Barcelona corporate vice-president Carles Vilarrubi says that Ibrahimovic had claimed he would beat up Barca manager Pep Guardiola if the move to Milan did not materialize in the wake of the striker’s falling out with the club’s manager. Interestingly, the Swede happens to be a black belt in tae-kwon-do. But, that were not all with regard to what transpired between Ibrahimovic and Guardiola which do not appear to have been just difference in opinions; the Swede striker goes on to reveal that he had told Guardiola that the latter had no balls. Ibrahimovic did not even spare former Barca teammate and FIFA World Player of the Year Lionel Messi whom he accused of forcing him out of his favored position.

And then what follows is Zlatan’s “life and death” fight with 6'4" muscle-bound defender Oguchi Onyewu, as revealed by the striker. It was a training-ground brawl at AC Milan when they came to blows that ensued as a result of a dangerous tackle by Ibrahimovic on the USA international Onyewu in November last year. The Milan striker says that they almost killed each other before they were separated by ten teammates and coaches; Zlatan, who claims that he was “a savage, a lunatic” as a youngster in Malmo, realizing only later that he had suffered a broken rib.

Kaka Re-ignites World’s Best-Player Debate with New Twist

2011-11-11T03:48:00.001-08:00

Every other person in world football including Pele, Neymar, Pep Guardiola, or just about give a name whose viewpoints are often deliberated with additional weight concurred that Lionel Messi is the best player from among the best in the world today. When everyone thought that the debate as to who deserves the uncrowned world’s best football player in the age of modern football has all but been closed, Real Madrid attacking midfielder Kaka’s opinion which is a departure from the pervasive general consensus pretends to pack a punch. With the 23-man group of nominees out for the 2011 FIFA Ballon d’Or, if the Brazilian World Cup winner’s outlook eventually manifests in FIFA’s imminent declaration remains to be seen.

Nonetheless, Kaka feels that his Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo has the edge over Messi. In all possibility, Kaka’s neat support for Ronaldo which follows the latter’s recent European golden shoe award triumph, sounds like the icing on the cake for the Portugal international.

The Brazilian agrees that Messi is extraordinary; however, he says that determining the world’s best player is relative, and depends a lot on what one does for the collective. And then, Kaka is of the opinion that Messi and Ronaldo are the best in the world, but considering the modern game, the Portuguese is the most complete player who can score goals with his left, with his right, with his head and from set-pieces.

Even as, the winner of the Ballon d'Or and FIFA World Player of the Year awards in 2007 compares Ronaldo with other greats he had played with or against, the Brazil international believes that Cristiano is the best player. Although the former AC Milan midfielder had only played against Frenchman Zinedine Zidane, he cannot be so sure but he says that Ronaldinho comes very close to the genius that Cristiano Ronaldo is.

Much Ado about Nothing; Neymar Goes Nowhere At Least Until 2014

2011-11-10T05:11:00.001-08:00

The talks of Neymar’s £53m move from Santos to Real Madrid next year which was to make the 19-year-old Brazil international one of the top earners in football with a contract worth £1 million-a-month, while image rights, commercial agreements and the transfer fee stood to see the deal total around £150 million, even as other interested parties in Barcelona and Chelsea among others were seen as potential suitors, ultimately amount to nothing until at least 2014; just that Santos emerge the winner amidst the Neymar-centered tug of war.

The teenage starlet considered to be one of the brightest talents in world football is not going anywhere after all, until after the 2014 World Cup in Brazil as he commits to stay with Santos. And the Brazilian club Santos president Luis Alvaro de Oliveira Ribeiro is only too happy to call a press conference to announce the starlet’s contract extension with the club.

All the same; Neymar will now earn at his home-town club almost as much as he would have earned with any European club, on the back of a 50% pay increase. For Neymar, it must have been an offer he could not refuse as he declared that his goal is not to be the best in the world, but to play in the best competitions. The sought-after teenage prodigy believes that Santos does fulfill his aspirations who have fought for the Libertadores, are going to play for the Club World Cup, and Santos being a massive club, the best player in the world played there as well.

Apparently, Neymar is only too happy to be representing Santos and Brazil for now. However, Neymar made it a point to thank the clubs who wanted his signature all along. Yet, the resultant outcome of the long-standing Neymar transfer episode is reflective of more than one view which all came from experts on many quarters, to have been considered. The foremost has to be that the Brazil striker is a prized possession who is also a secret weapon to a great extent especially in view of the 2014 World Cup, to be hosted in the teenage starlet’s home country given that the Brazil striking-mainstay is still an unknown entity on European shores.

Had Neymar ended up in one of Europe’s big clubs, he would have been facing his probable direct opponents there prior to the World Cup which would have meant opponents getting to know him much better, and this was what quite a few experts feared, although, few others suggested Neymar shift base to Europe to realize his true potential to end up being the best player. The fact that the Santos star has age on his side means his pursuit of the best player tag can wait for his country’s sake; may be for his club’s sake as well.

Old Charge Cristiano Ronaldo All But Grateful to Original Mentor Sir Alex Ferguson

2011-11-07T06:40:00.000-08:00

Article first published as Christian Ronaldo Praises Mentor for Direction Given on Technorati.

As if Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo — who had grabbed a hat-trick for himself in their Spanish La Liga 7-1 drubbing of Osasuna thereby notching up his 12th treble in a Real shirt — had to out-pour his gratitude toward the legend of Sir Alex Ferguson – whom the former considers to be the world’s best manager – more than paying a tribute to the United boss on the occasion of his 25th anniversary as Red Devils manager, the former Manchester United winger just about managed to pay the ultimate compliment to his original mentor.

Ronaldo says that Fergie, who told him to do all the right things when he was a young Manchester United talent, is one of the most important people in the world for him. Sir Alex’s former charge attributes the Scot with transforming him into one of the world's best players; as if, acknowledgement of Ferguson as a father-figure earlier by Ronaldo and then David Beckham following suit as well, was not satisfactory.

Almost sadly for the European Golden Shoe award winner for the 2010-11 season, he had to miss out on the dinner held to mark Ferguson's 25 years in charge of United due to training schedules. The Portuguese striker had called upon the CEO of Manchester United FC David Gill to pass on his congratulatory greetings and regards though.

As well, the former United forward says that Ferguson is special just like current Real coach Jose Mourinho – tipped by many to take over the reigns at Old Trafford once Fergie retires – based on his experience of working with both of the managers. Somehow, it also sounds like Fergie’s numerous grateful protégés, who have gone on to achieve the pinnacle of success, are also indicative of the legendary manager’s quantifiable triumphs.

And, the North Stand at Old Trafford to have been named in the honor of Sir Alex Ferguson is only one of many he truly deserves for everything that he has achieved in his career.

This Season Thus Far; Two Teams Impress Lionel Messi

2011-11-06T04:53:00.000-08:00

Barcelona’s young legend Lionel Messi takes heed of his immediate surroundings and then peers across the continent of Europe, to take note of two sides that have impressed the Catalan club’s forward no end this season. Firstly, Barca’s immediate La Liga title challengers Real Madrid who sit a narrow one point clear above the former at the top of the league table at this stage, appear to Messi to have improved upon last year. Secondly, the Argentina captain cannot help but acknowledge the German side Bayern Munich as a great team in the wake of a string of dominating displays in the Bundesliga and in the elite continental competition UEFA Champions League.

Apparently, Real’s acquisitions in the summer transfer window in the form of Fabio Coentrao, Nuri Sahin, Raphael Varane and Hamit Altintop for a combined fee of over £50 million are bearing fruit to elicit the view of the reigning FIFA World Player that Jose Mourniho’s men are in good shape to challenge for the La Liga title. But, that’s something coming from the diminutive wonder who has just notched up his 200th goal for the Spanish giant Barcelona in their last Champions League clash against Viktoria Plzen while closing in on Cesar Rodriguez's record of 235 Barca goals all the time.

On the other hand, Messi’s “great team” compliment to the Bavarian club must have come in view of Bayern Munich’s recent Bundesliga domination backed by their impressive Champions League performances. Apparently, the Bundesliga club must not have caught the eye of only the South American great; they have been mostly hogging the limelight lately. And exactly that, Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is said to be wary of the Bavarians’ threat in the Champions League as revealed by former Bayern coach Ottmar Hitzfeld, and the Red Devils boss wants to avoid coming face to face with the Bundesliga club for as long as possible. As well, Messi is of the opinion that the Champions League final set to take place at the Allianz Arena – the German club’s home ground – is an additional motivation for Bayern to keep doing well.

Still, it remains to be seen who emerge as Barcelona’s nemesis even as, the La Liga giant is looking to make it three Champions League crowns in four years this term. Or, Real Madrid really does have it in them to dislodge the reigning Spanish League champions this time around. If at all, Barcelona being genuinely challenged should augur well with fans.

Prolific Mario Gomez Complements Bayern Munich’s Growing Prominence

2011-11-06T04:21:00.000-08:00

Since the start of the season, Bayern Munich has only been synonymous with Bundesliga domination as they continue to cement their top position in the local league scoring almost average-three goals per game. And the tremors of the Bavarians re-establishing their prominence have not been confined within the country; they currently sit pretty at the top in a tricky Champions League Group A comprising of Manchester City, Villarreal and Napoli besides themselves. To sum up, Bayern are flying this season; Barcelona’s Lionel Messi and Manchester United’s Sir Alex Ferguson have already taken note of that.

Whenever a side does great as a team, often, there happen to be an excellent core-few – individuals, who seem to stand out from the lot. From the current crop of Jupp Heynckes side at the Allianz Arena, especially Mario Gomez seems to have been stealing the thunder specifically because of the number of times he has been featuring in the score-sheets; 12 goals in 10 games so far. Or, the German international’s run of terrific form in front of the goal could be the expression of the Bavarians’ statement of intent and the affirmation of their re-emergence; just that, Gomez has it in him to be able to rise to the occasion and complement Bayern Munich’s growing prominence.

As well, legendary German striker Gerd Muller’s backing for 26-year-old Gomez to break the former’s long-standing Bundesliga scoring record – a 40-goal haul in the 1971-72 season untouched for close to 40 years – this season could say a thing or two with regard to the impact the latter have had thus far.

Interestingly, Bayern Munich’s frailties and dependence as well as Gomez’s on their talismanic midfield dynamo Bastian Schweinsteiger is insinuated to have been laid bare in their last Champions League encounter with Napoli. The German club were leading 3-1 at the stroke of half-time helped by a Gomez treble. However, following injured Schweinsteiger’s forced substitution in that game during the early stages of the second half, Bayern appeared to have crumbled thereafter; eventually to just about manage to limp over the finish line with a 3-2 win.

As it emerged, Schweinsteiger will be out for about 4 to 6 weeks with a fractured clavicle. And, the Bavarians are now presented with an opportunity to prove their naysayers wrong; Mario Gomez included. Apparently, the Bundesliga leaders’ test starts with their next game on November 6 when Augsburg comes visiting.

Sir Alex Ferguson: 25 Years, and Should Go Strong Still as Manchester United Manager

2011-11-05T05:34:00.000-07:00

Accolades and plaudits have been freely flowing on all fronts for Sir Alex Ferguson, on the eve of the living legend’s 25 years of managerial journey at Old Trafford, and rightly so. Football pundits have compared the Scot statistically and any whichever way, with the greatest of the lot including Bob Paisley, Jock Stein, Bill Shankly, Sir Matt Busby and Brian Clough among others, and have uninhibitedly bequeathed the label of the greatest exponent of his trade to the boss at Old Trafford. And of course, there is no refuting what the figures reveal; that too, extrapolated by accredited experts.

With Fergie anecdotes abound, one of the pundits has observed that Ferguson is a man who loves what he does, and perhaps that is the one crucial element in his continued longevity. While as, one other believes that there will never be another Sir Alex Ferguson who also noted that an insatiable hunger to win trophies is the secret which kept him at the top of the game for so long.

Interestingly, Ferguson does not overtake several managers considered to be among the greatest from statistical standpoint yet, but, high regard for the Red Devils' guardian for the last quarter of a century does not seem be affected. Apparently, the long-standing United boss is analogous to an endless book of inspirational tales.

As well, although undeclared as yet by a lot many of his current and former charges, Ferguson has been a father-figure to many a legendary football player; instrumental in making the men and players that they ever have been. Sometime back, Former United player Cristiano Ronaldo stated that the Reds boss is like a second father to him and now, David Beckham – another former Reds Player – chooses the opportune time to thank a formidable character that Ferguson is for making his career successful, and saying that he views the manager like a parent.

In addition, Beckham’s abiding memory of the legendary manager does not entail a high-profile occasion when Ferguson kicked a boot at him causing a cut that needed two stitches over his eye, or of the famous 'hairdryer' treatment in the dressing room, but of something that happened back in May 1989, when he was 14 and travelling to Old Trafford to sign schoolboy forms for the club.

And now, Sir Alex Ferguson last heard, has been urging his players to forget about his 25th anniversary as United manager, but to focus on overcoming the challenge of Sunderland on November 5. Yet, there’s one more abiding wish, which is to witness the manager regarded as the best ever finding the Barcelona solution during his tenure.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Century of Goals in Real Shirt and the Talk of His Greatness

2011-11-04T05:22:00.000-07:00

Article first published as Cristiano Ronaldo’s Century of Goals in Real Shirt and the Talk of His Greatness on Technorati.

Cristiano Ronaldo achieves another routine landmark in his professional football career; notched up his 100th goal in style for Real Madrid in only 105 games as he had grabbed a brace in their last Champions League 4-0 victory over Olympique Lyon. Apparently, the Real Madrid record £80 million signing from Manchester United in 2009 demands at this stage, an evaluation if he is still to be considered in terms of being precociously prodigal or his greatness calls for a due appraisal.

A quick glance at Ronaldo’s career graph at the club level reveals that the Portugal captain has only gone from strength to strength over the years. The greater chunk of the former Manchester United star’s days at Old Trafford are seemingly summed up by his fast-growing prominence in world football even as, the gifted forward bordered along the last line which he needed to cross over to break into the exclusive club of footballing greats; having scored 118 goals for the Reds, and winning three Premier Leagues, one FA Cup, and one Champions League medal en route.

Eventually, Real Madrid materialized as Ronaldo’s current destination while as, perhaps providing him the greatest challenge of his career. All the same, the change of scene has only been testimony to the 26-year-old striker’s ever-growing stature; his Real scoring stats does betray a lot in this regard. As yet, Ronaldo does not have much to show for in a Real shirt though. But, nobody can do it all on their own in football.

And then, the inevitable comparisons with Lionel Messi; although Messi notably has the upper hand, they are not far apart. Perhaps they constitute a league of their own. When it comes to playing for their respective countries, Messi and Ronaldo both don the captain’s armband; they have not been as effective at international duty though, and there is hardly any other player in the world who is as prolific scorers and as crucial as they are at club level.

Just that, Messi and Ronaldo are live portrayals of contrasting personalities off the pitch; the former is grounded and modesty personified while the latter is known for his high self-regard. As well, 24-year old Messi mostly had come out on top as far as their meetings in El Classicos are concerned and that, the jewel of Barcelona has netted 122 goals in the time Ronaldo notched up his century of Real goals. All said and done; it seems that, fans stand to continue to marvel at the rivalry of the generation for many more years.

Typical Serious Health Threats Do Befall on Football Professionals Too

2011-11-03T08:45:00.000-07:00

The news of a mystery illness that hit AC Milan’s Antonio Cassano recently, forcing the Italy international to contend with an imminent “minor” heart surgery is like a silent storm of sorts for the 29-year old as well as fans. Cassano was all fine; had taken the field in Milan’s 3-2 win over Roma, and then he suddenly experiences problems with his vision, speech and movement on the team plane following the match; eventually, the cause to be identified as the presence of a patent foramen ovale septal heart detectable only with sophisticated specialized tests, according to sources. The former Real Madrid forward is most likely to be ruled out of action until next year now. A lot stands to change in the meantime though.

More than the loss of action from a professional footballer’s standpoint, these out-of-the-blue health-scares get a lot of people worried. For Cassano, the recent turn of events means misfortune befalling him at an opportune time besides being a worrisome health concern. The Italy forward has been going great guns lately for both club and country; scoring decisive goals for Milan even as proving instrumental in helping Italy secure a spot at Euro 2012 with six goals in ten qualifying games. However, AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani who was extremely worried believes that Cassano has suffered a misfortune but in that misfortune, he has been lucky.

Elsewhere in England, Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp also was to undergo a minor heart surgery on Wednesday. The 64-year-old was known to have suffered blockage in one of his arteries. Redknapp had earlier gone on record to say that the managing a top football club is highly stressful. There had been few other instances as well, which account for top-flight football managers having to undergo heart-related medical procedures; former Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier, Sam Allardyce and Joe Kinnear included even as, Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson had a pacemaker fitted in 2004.

Apparently, the basis underlying the factors that lead to football professionals who are physically into the game and those who mostly use their grey matter suffering life-threatening health issues do not coincide. Nonetheless, it is as ever hard to associate usual health concerns with athletic professional footballers who happen to be epitomes of physical fitness. The case of the managers is another matter though.

The 2011 FIFA Ballon d’Or Shortlist; But is it Wind of Change Blowing Already?

2011-11-02T09:27:00.000-07:00

The 23-man shortlist has just been released for the 2011 FIFA Ballon d’Or, and the Spanish giant Barcelona are largely represented with hardly too many surprises while fellow biggie Real Madrid follow close; eight squad members in the running from the Catalan club, and Real Madrid have five nominees. Brazilian and Santos starlet Neymar is the only player featuring in the list based outside of Europe while Anzhi Makhachkala and Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o is Africa's sole representative.

2010 FIFA World Coach of the Year prize winner and current Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho looks like he has tough competition this time around from Barcelona's Pep Guardiola. Last year, the former had led Inter Milan to a Treble win. The shortlists for Ballon d’Or and the World Coach of the Year for 2011 go like this:

FIFA Ballon d'Or men's shortlist: Éric Abidal (France), Sergio Agüero (Argentina), Karim Benzema (France), Iker Casillas (Spain), Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal), Dani Alves (Brazil), Samuel Eto'o (Cameroon), Cesc Fàbregas (Spain), Diego Forlán (Uruguay), Andrés Iniesta (Spain), Lionel Messi (Argentina), Thomas Müller (Germany), Nani (Portugal), Neymar (Brazil), Mesut Özil (Germany), Gerard Piqué (Spain), Wayne Rooney (England), Bastian Schweinsteiger (Germany), Wesley Sneijder (Netherlands), Luis Suárez (Uruguay), David Villa (Spain), Xabi Alonso (Spain), Xavi (Spain).

FIFA World Coach of the Year men's shortlist: Vicente Del Bosque (Spain/Spain national team), Alex Ferguson (Scotland/Manchester United FC), Rudi Garcia (France/Lille OSC), Pep Guardiola (Spain/FC Barcelona), Jürgen Klopp (Germany/Borussia Dortmund), Joachim Löw (Germany/Germany national team), José Mourinho (Portugal/Real Madrid C.F.), Óscar Tabárez (Uruguay/Uruguay national team), André Villas-Boas (Portugal/FC Porto, Chelsea FC), Arsène Wenger (France/Arsenal FC).

Interestingly, quick on the heels of the announcement of Ballon d’Or shortlist which is greatly dominated by Barcelona players signifying their apparent supremacy while Real Madrid tread closely, the news of Neymar being committed to eventually join Real during the Summer could mean the initiation of tables beginning to turn with respect to dominance in Spanish football. The 19-year old, considered one of the brightest talents in world football, joining the ranks of Real Madrid sounds like the shifting of weight toward the Spanish capital somewhat.

But, that must be good news in the offing for football fans across the world. Of late, there has been hardly any side in world football that had managed to give Barca a run for their money. May be, Cristiano Ronaldo will find that perfect foil in Neymar to contend with the irrepressible Messi and co.

David Beckham Reiterates Wish for England Call Up

2011-11-02T02:14:00.000-07:00

The last time LA Galaxy’s David Beckham played for England was back in 2009 against Belarus. With 115 international caps under his belt, the 36-year-old former England captain makes quite a few feel his days with the national side are long gone. Yet, the former Manchester United midfielder has been reminding the officials in different ways and at opportune times, that he wants to be playing for the national side again.

From the looks of it; Beckham whose contract with the MLS side LA Galaxy set to expire on November 20, and several top European clubs among others from around the world interested in securing his services, most probably will not make it to the Euro 2012. However, the sought-after star is understood to be targeting the London Olympics at best; the English footballer specifically letting people know earlier how much he would love to be part of the UK Olympics football team.

True to the fighter David Beckham is known to be; the World Cupper has not given up hope of playing for his country again, while as being confident he will earn a recall. And this is what the former Manchester United man has been quoted as saying:

"I'm playing well, I'm still fit and I haven't retired from international football," he said. "If there are players injured or out, if I'm ever needed, then of course I'm available.

"I'd love to play for England again and I believe I will."

Can you help not wish David Beckham luck? May be; believing that he deserves “just one more” wish granted.

Solskjaer Tastes Norwegian First Division Title Success as Manager with Molde

2011-10-31T09:20:00.000-07:00

Article first published as Solskjaer Tastes Norwegian First Division Title Success as Manager with Molde on Technorati.

Former Manchester United forward Ole Gunnar Solskjaer redefines the age-old adage “Once a winner, always a winner” by guiding Molde to their first Norwegian Tippeligaen title in the club’s history. The baby-faced assassin as nicknamed during his playing days at Old Trafford, was a committed Reds loyal for the major part of his playing career; won numerous honors and trophies, and was widely recognized as a super-sub for his knack for coming off the bench to score late crucial goals.

Now managing Molde, and in the wake of helping the Norwegian first division side to their maiden title, Solskjaer could eventually join the elite guild – in fact, a rare breed – of successful managers who also were successful as players.

During his Manchester United playing days, Solskjaer often used to feature in the score sheets for the Reds at key moments. And, since his retirement from top flight football in England, the Reds’ favorite substitute has hardly been heard for reasons related to football. So it seems; he has been matter-of-factly working silently elsewhere following a couple-of-years’ managerial stint at United while as serving in an ambassadorial capacity and now, he surfaces again with another champion side in the Norwegian side Molde.

Plausibly, Solskjaer would be heard of again in the near future, and on a regular basis at that for his exploits on the pitch; not as a player though, but as a manager of a bigger side in Europe because the Norwegian first division title win stands to pave greater opportunities for the current Molde manager.

Talking of the Norwegian Tippeligaen title success, the former Manchester United striker said that the club has waited 100 years for this; they have been close several times so, it was well deserved.

Is the True Shape of the Premier League Beginning to Emerge Now?

2011-10-30T09:37:00.000-07:00

True to form, the English Premier League refuses to take a steady course. The shape of the Premier League at its absolute nascent stages from the overall standings and outlook point of view, hardly bears any resemblance with what turn it promises to take now; given the unpredictably topsy-turvy nature of the battle for honors, and the inherent twists and turns that accompany highly competitive world-class sides fighting it out in a round-robin format. How about a peek into the apparent pace setters who stand to define the true shape of the Premier League?

To begin with; the side that had the biggest impact especially in the week gone by has to go to Arsenal. Although the Gunners are rather languishing at the seventh position in the points tally, they just got people talking. Eight wins in nine games now; they are only proving themselves right with every passing game – they are back. Specifically, their last game with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge; one humdinger of a contest, but the Gunners eventually emerging winners by a margin of 5-3 has to be something of an outrageous statement of intent and confidence. And of course, Arsenal captain Robin Van Persie’s treble which stamps his terrific goal-scoring form all the more is worth a mention.

On the other hand, Manchester City are only looking like the deserved leaders of the Premier League; five points clear at the top from their nearest rival. On the back of an incredible 6-1 victory over Manchester United, City just saw off the Wolves 3-1; as if they are getting used to staying at the top after all.

Talking about the Reds at Old Trafford; they never appeared so humble in recent memory. In their last encounter with Everton, Manchester United just about managed to scrap past Everton with a 1-0 win albeit grabbing all three points; as if they were struggling to shake off an alien experience which they were meted out at the hands of their cross-town rivals in a prior game.

Yet, if Chelsea appear to have hit a real slump at, which could prove to be an inappropriate time, conservatively steady seems to be the name of the game for Liverpool. As the Blues have been at the receiving end of two back-to-back loses, the Merseysiders have produced two almost identical back-to-back victories.

All said and done; the all-important question goes begging still: which route the League stands to take after all? Although Manchester City appears to be rightfully leading the rest, they still have got to get the better of the defending champions Manchester United in the long run if the former are to dislodge the latter from their perch. City need to negotiate some sort of an unknown territory for an extended period which comes with sitting at the top of the heap – the giddy terrains presented when you beat the best to be the best. On the other hand, United know how it is to be champions and what it takes to be there. Although the Reds are somewhat taken aback by City’s emergence, the former seem to be looking to rather stay where they are if overtaking the leaders for the moment is not an option; reminiscent of the wily fox.

While Chelsea appear to be in need of getting their act together as soon as possible, the Gunners seem to be hitting top form too fast too soon; disparate highs and lows most often take their toll on consistency. And then, Liverpool so far have not offered reasons to believe that they are at the zenith of their game; they have only either gone through a slump or shown steady progress in patches. The Merseysiders need to shift gear backed by consistency if they are to be considered serious title challengers. In the same vein, Tottenham Hotspur have looked like the perennial challengers for the top-four finishes so far. Yet quite interestingly, Newcastle United happen to be only the second side after City not to have lost any game so far while sitting pretty at number four in the table. Will the Magpies prove to be the spoilers as the pretenders hustle and jostle?

Lionel Messi: The Veritable Talent From Among the Current Crop of Players

2011-10-28T10:08:00.000-07:00

Lionel Messi never walked. He only ran, and he continues to. Since he hit the top flight football scene, nobody failed to recognize the exceptional talent that he is. Messi is only 24 years of age; many people are even ready to discount the comparatively lesser impact he has with the national team, in view of his exploits with his club Barcelona – having conquered everything in sight. Besides, he has been showing the manifestation of his club form for his country as well since he has been named captain for the national side.

Messi is the veritable landmark for the current crop of players, and as if the phenomenon of Messi transcends generations, he has often been hailed as the greatest footballer in the making while espousing inevitable comparisons with the legends of the game from the yesteryears, although, inferring conclusions by comparing players from different generations hardly is fair. When Messi-comparison questions are thrown at the greatest of football players, they sometime give away a sense of insecurity with regard to being dislodged off the best-ever-footballer-perch in the long run; they seem to shed more light on the shortcomings of the diminutive forward rather than appreciating those amazing things he does which lesser players only dream of.

Diego Maradona sees himself in Messi while Pele thinks the Barcelona star needs to overhaul his goal scoring record of 1283 goals if his to be considered the best player ever. The primitive notion is that Maradona and Pele are the greatest footballers to have played the game. Pele was officially recognized to be at least half or one notch higher up though. However, Pele does not ignore the difference in performance when it comes to Messi playing for his country and for Barcelona. Yet, the Brazilian legend agrees that the Argentine captain is the undisputed No. 1 footballer in the world at present while he has high hopes for Santos star Neymar. On the other hand, Neymar has gone on record to express awe of what Messi does on the pitch.

From the looks of it; when it is time for Lionel Messi to hang up his boots, he will make it a lot more difficult for the discerning skills of the observers in deciding the best ever; or, could he be making it all the more easier after all.

Are Arsenal Back Where They Always Claimed to Belong?

2011-10-28T07:02:00.000-07:00

One off demands calling for Arsenal’s long-time manager Arsene Wenger to step down in the wake of a shaky start to the Gunners’ Premier League campaign were reflective of the slide at the Emirates Stadium that was. Now that the initial uproar has subsided; does that mean Arsenal have steadied their ship? Apparently, the Gunners current seventh position standing in the League table does not reveal too much with regard to the progress they have made so far in terms of finding their footing as well as a winning mentality that espouses confidence in fans.

The first hint coming in with regard to the Gunners rediscovering their swagger has to be when they had seen off Merseille in the Champions League with a 1-0 victory helped by an Aaron Ramsey’s last-gasp goal, and Arsene Wenger saying that Arsenal are a happy and unified lot once again. Ever since, they have won seven games out of eight. At this stage, Arsenal have booked their berth in the Carling Cup quarter finals helped by a 2-1 win over Bolton; still in the Champions League hunt, besides their immediate steps forward in reclaiming Premier League lost ground.

The recent turn of events at the Emirates Stadium must have encouraged the 27-year-old Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker as well who insists that the gunners are focused on a top-four Premier League finish. As well, the German centre-back stated that their other foremost objective is to progress in the UEFA Champions League.

At this juncture, the high-flying Gunners need an acid test to corroborate the fact that they are truly back in the fray. And that’s what their next encounter with Chelsea over the weekend at Stamford Bridge promises to be. In view of both the sides having points to prove, the stakes are interestingly poised; Chelsea are wounded from their shock defeat to QPR in their last game, and they must be rearing to bounce back while Arsenal need to make a statement – they are genuinely in the title race despite enduring a rocky start to the season.

Come Saturday; we will know if the marquee encounter manages to live up to its billing while setting the Stamford Bridge on fire.