Author: Rhys Desmond

Across the past decade, I have worked with thousands of players and coaches across multiple sports and disciplines. I recognize the value of diving deeper beyond the first glance, and uncovering the deeper-lying ways to enhance performance. I make a commitment toward positive reinforcement, research-backed insights, and making the experience fun for those that work with me. If you’re interested in learning more about my site or experiencing my coaching, feel free to reach out! 👊⚽

Picking England’s 2026 World Cup Squad

Featured by Rhys Desmond, posted in Team Analysis, World Cup 2026, World Football

The World Cup is just a few months away, and Thomas Tuchel already seems to have a clear idea of both his squad and how he wants England to play. His teams are built on energy, physicality, and discipline — players who stick to their roles and execute a system, rather than drift and freelance. That’s where things get interesting. Because as much as I understand what Tuchel wants, I don’t agree with all of it. This isn’t a prediction of who will go to the World Cup. This is the squad I think should go — the one that gives England the best chance of winning the tournament, not just controlling matches.

Ali Ahmed: The £1.4 million steal powering Norwich’s revival

Featured by Rhys Desmond, posted in Game of Numbers, Masterclasses, Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Player Education, Recruitment & Scouting, Winger

Norwich might not be in the hunt for Premier League football next season, but they are slowly rebuilding their squad back to one that can challenge toward the top of the Championship. And in Ali Ahmed, they didn’t just sign a useful squad player. They may have found their next star.

Sebastian Berhalter has become the Whitecaps’ most important player

Featured by Rhys Desmond, posted in Central Midfield, Game of Numbers, Masterclasses, Player Analysis

With his all-around quality, it's abundantly clear. Sebastian Berhalter is the Whitecaps' most important player right now. His performance against Portland was one of the finest individual performances of any player so far this season, and continues to help cement the 'Caps as one of the most cutthroat teams in the league.

Sports Analysis for Journalism & Content Creation – Ebook

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Subscriber Exclusives

I’m sure you’re already familiar with the world of sports media and journalism. You’ve probably grown up watching sports channels, seen Instagram reels, and witnessed the new wave of media begin to replace a lot of the traditional outlets. With that, I want you to think of a typical person that you’ve seen in sports media. I want you to think about how they talk, how they report, how they typically go about their time in front of the screen. Now I want you to throw all of that away.

Benjamin Šeško is United’s best striker in years

Featured by Rhys Desmond, posted in Game of Numbers, Player Analysis, Player Education, Premier League, Striker

With four goals in his last five matches, Šeško earned himself the Premier League's Player of the Month award for February. This, in just 85 minutes of making an impact off the bench. If he can continue to grow from here, the 22-year-old will almost certainly stake his claim as United's best striker in years.

Michael Carrick has given Manchester United their joy back

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Coach Education, Managers, Masterclasses, Match Analysis, Premier League, Team Analysis

At the time of Ruben Amorim's shock sacking, Manchester United sat sixth in the table. There were signs of hope and progress, but also much in the way of disappointment and misalignment. Since Carrick entered the frame at Old Trafford, the Red Devils have won four in a row, closing the gap on City in second to just three points. This is a United team that are not only playing with simultaneous swagger and stability. But a team that is rooted in togetherness. Even beyond the results, this is the most impressive thing that Carrick and his coaching team have done since coming into the fold at United. They've created a team that are incredibly organized and tough to beat, fluid and exciting on the attacking end, and together in everything they do.

Why Hugo Ekitiké has worked when so many big money signings have flopped

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Coach Education, Game of Numbers, Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Premier League, Recruitment & Scouting, Striker

Every summer, Premier League clubs spend £80m–£100m chasing the next superstar forward. Every season, the league humbles them. But Hugo Ekitiké has been the exception. Ten goals, instant adaptation, and a playing style that personifies Liverpool's identity. Here is why he’s worked when so many other big-money signings have stalled.

Casemiro is leaving, and United still can’t replace him

Featured by Rhys Desmond, posted in Central Midfield, Defensive Midfield, Game of Numbers, Match Analysis, Player Analysis, Premier League, Recruitment & Scouting

Casemiro's been one of the best players in each of Carrick's matches in charge. In fact, he's been almost too good. Sunday's match against Fulham exposed exactly what United will miss when he departs, and why he might be someone they simply can't afford to lose, even if they must. At home to Fulham, Casemiro dominated the midfield, and put his stamp on both of the opening goals - scoring one and assisting the next. His absence in the dying moments of the game served only as a warning sign against Fulham, as Carrick's red-hot start to the season continued. But if this is how they play without him, the Red Devils better hope he's fit until the end of May.