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! 👊⚽

Futbol Masterminds – Messi, Grealish, Kane, & a Whole Premier League Preview!

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Podcast, Premier League

Lionel Messi wants OUT of Barcelona again. But we're not convinced he's actually leaving again. Meanwhile, Manchester City have splashed the cash on Jack Grealish and might do so again to sign Harry Kane. If they do, is the title race done and dusted before it even begins? Rhys doesn't think so, and thinks another Premier League challenger could be set to go neck and neck with the Citizens this season. Then the lads break down the top four race, relegation battle and why Tottenham, Arsenal, and Everton are still stuck in no-mans-land. Follow the show @futbolmasterminds and subscribe via Itunes and Spotify! 

Ranking the 2021-22 Bundesliga Kits (Bundesliga Weekly Podcast)

by Rhys Desmond, posted in German Bundesliga, Podcast

Footballing brothers Brandon and Ethan Wallis take you through all the latest news and events in German football. Ahead of the 2021-22 Bundesliga season, Brandon and Ethan assess all eighteen Bundesliga club HOME & AWAY kits for the 2021-22 season in this two-part podcast series.

The Mastermind Monthly Magazine – July 2021

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Subscriber Exclusives

Calling all subscribers to TheMastermindSite.com, our Monthly Magazine for JULY 2021 has now arrived.

Andre Silva set to carry on where Timo Werner left off at RB Leipzig – Player Analysis

by Rhys Desmond, posted in German Bundesliga, Player Analysis, Striker, Subscriber Exclusives

After a roller coaster ride of a career, Andre Silva has made a move to what is probably his biggest club yet in relative Bundesliga newcomers RB Leipzig. The Portuguese striker scored a remarkable 28 goals in 32 appearances last season, breaking Frankfurt’s club record for most goals in a single season. Leipzig fans will be hoping Silva carries over that kind of form to his new club, and finishes where Timo Werner left off two seasons ago. But now under the influence of Jesse Marsch, how will Andre Silva fit in?

Will Jadon Sancho Inspire New Life at Old Trafford? – Tactical Analysis

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Premier League, Subscriber Exclusives, Winger, World Football

The signing of Jadon Sancho brings a world class winger to Old Trafford, and one with the longevity still left in his career to become an all-time United great. Raphael Varane and Ruben Neves are also reportedly inching for a move to Solskjaer’s team, which would bring two more top quality players into the mix and give United more strength in depth. So ahead of the 2021-22 season, we take a look at how Manchester United could potentially challenge for the Premier League title, with a special focus on Jadon Sancho and how he’ll fit into the team.

Ronald Koeman’s New Look FC Barcelona – Tactical Analysis

by Rhys Desmond, posted in World Football

After a disappointing couple of years, FC Barcelona are making active strides in the transfer market to turn their fortunes around. The signings of Memphis Depay, Eric Garcia and Sergio Aguero signal their intent to be the best team in Spain again, and end their two season run without a La Liga title. Here is a tactical analysis of how FC Barcelona may set up under the influence of Ronald Koeman next season.

What Nuno Espirito Santo will bring to Tottenham Hotspur – Tactical Analysis

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Premier League

After months of searching for the perfect manager, Daniel Levy and Tottenham Hotspur ultimately settled for former Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo - who left his post at the end of the 2020-21 season. The Portuguese's departure from Wolves was a slight surprise, having led them to the Premier League to begin with, followed by two back to back 7th place finishes in 2018-19 and 2019-20. But Levy snatched up the opportunity to take on another Portuguese manager, and he will be hoping Nuno fares better than his predecessor - Jose Mourinho. Here we analyze Nuno's potential tactics at Tottenham, and the chances of the manager and club working harmoniously together as one.

Futbol Masterminds – Italy Win Euro 2020, England’s Penalty Woes, and Southgate’s Substitutions

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Podcast, World Football

Kausty and Rhys break down their thoughts from the final match between England and Italy, including Gareth Southgate's substitutions, England's penalty woes, and the Player of the Tournament going to Gianluigi Donnarumma. Be sure to follow the show @futbolmasterminds on Twitter and subscribe via Spotify and Itunes!