Why Fernandinho Is Manchester City’s Most Important Player

For the first time in the Guardiola era, Manchester City have been handed their third loss in the span of four matches. The Citizens have looked lackluster since falling 2-0 to Chelsea at the beginning of December and their troubles have only gotten worse with two defeats to mid-table teams in Crystal Palace and Leicester … Continue reading Why Fernandinho Is Manchester City’s Most Important Player

Moulding Players into Specific Positions: A Case for Developing Confidence

At any level, there can sometimes be a mismatch that occurs between a player's preference for a position and their playing style. Don't get me wrong, as a youth coach, you should always play your players in the positions they want to play. Rotation is an equally important consideration. But sometimes there's a mismatch that … Continue reading Moulding Players into Specific Positions: A Case for Developing Confidence

Analyzing Jorginho’s Role at Chelsea

Jorginho is one of the most unique midfielders in the modern game. The Brazilian-born midfielder is not your traditional N'Golo Kante-esque ball-winner nor is he anywhere near as mobile as the Frenchman. But his tactical/spatial awareness, footballing intelligence and superb on-the-ball presence help to make him one of the very best defensive midfielders around. He's incredibly vocal on the field, guiding his teammates through every pass and when he receives the ball for himself, he always seems to know exactly the right pass to make in a split-second decision. Jorginho is arguably the closest thing the footballing world has seen to a Sergio Busquets in years and Maurizio Sarri's Chelsea is the perfect place for the 26-year-old to showcase his talent. Here is how Jorginho has been integral to Chelsea's unbeaten start to the 2018-19 Premier League season.

Why Portugal Must Build Their World Cup 2018 Squad Around Ruben Neves

Key to any footballing side is a strong midfield. Of course with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Bernardo Silva, Portugal have a number of attacking talents. Their defensive back-line is also well-constructed with veteran defender Pepe as well as attack-minded fullbacks in Cedric Soares and Raphael Guerreiro. But if Portugal can get the balance … Continue reading Why Portugal Must Build Their World Cup 2018 Squad Around Ruben Neves

Who England Should Take To World Cup 2018

World Cup 2018 is still months away. A lot can change in five months, but Gareth Southgate has to start looking now at who he should take to Russia in June. The 2017-18 Premier League season has seen the rise of players like Jesse Lingard, Harry Maguire and even the resurgence of Ashley Young, but … Continue reading Who England Should Take To World Cup 2018

Manchester City’s Unbeaten Run Ends; Liverpool’s Defensive Problems Persist

It took twenty-three matches, but Pep Guardiola and Manchester City's stunning unbeaten run has finally come to an end at the hands of Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool. It's a bit ironic that Guardiola's side were beaten by his old, rival manager Jurgen Klopp, the man who less ironically has more wins against him than any other … Continue reading Manchester City’s Unbeaten Run Ends; Liverpool’s Defensive Problems Persist

WINNERS REVEALED: The Mastermind Awards 2017

It’s been a long time coming and now the wait is finally over. You voted for the winners of eleven different award categories and now it is time to reveal who received the most votes in every category. These are your 2017 Mastermind Award winners. Enjoy! FOOTBALL PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR Nominees: Jurgen Klopp, Jamie Vardy, … Continue reading WINNERS REVEALED: The Mastermind Awards 2017

The 5 Best & Worst Goalkeepers in the Premier League 2017-18 by Saves Per Goal (Halfway Through)

As always, goalkeeping has been a hot topic so far this Premier League season with many being scrutinized for their lackluster performances and on the other side of the coin, many hitting the limelight. So with the season now halfway through, it is time to take a look at which five goalkeepers have made the greatest … Continue reading The 5 Best & Worst Goalkeepers in the Premier League 2017-18 by Saves Per Goal (Halfway Through)