After sacking Steve Bruce on October 19, it appears that Newcastle United are now inching closer to selecting their next manager. With Paulo Fonseca still, shockingly, out of a job following a successful year with Roma last year, Newcastle are taking heavy interest in bringing the highly touted manager into their ranks. So with that, we take a look at what Paulo Fonseca could bring to Newcastle and why the move could be exactly what Newcastle fans have been calling out for.
Category: World Football
The Flag-Bearers of Football Formations – October 2021 – Quick Take
Although we all love the beautiful game, we may watch for different reasons. Some tune in as a family tradition. Others for personal or professional interest. And still others purely for the sake of entertainment. Here, today, I hope to add one more reason to your list if it’s there already: watch to learn. Specifically, to learn how a football club compiles individual contributions of skill, athleticism, intelligence, and desire, and stations those facets of the game for collective success. This is my working definition of football tactics inherent to formations.
The Most Popular Formations in MLS [Quick Take]
Similar to our prior overview of The Most Popular Formations in Europe’s Top 5 Leagues (2020-2021 season), we now look at the most popular formations in MLS during the 2021 season (up until the time of writing - early September 2021). With most sides over two-thirds of the way through the regular season, it’s prime time to find form and compete for a playoff spot. And while preparation for success is managed differently by all, settling on a formation (or at least a general style of play) is a great sign that a team has found its collective identity. As such, final tallies for the season will undoubtedly change, but here are the numbers as they stand...
Man City 5-0 Norwich – Tactical Analysis – How Jack Grealish Fits
Manchester City demolished Norwich City this past weekend in the Premier League's second round of fixtures, with Jack Grealish grabbing his first goal for the club. Here is our analysis of the match, including a special look into how the former Villa captain fits into the squad.
Borussia Dortmund 5-2 Eintracht Frankfurt – Tactical Analysis – Marco Rose’s First Game
Borussia Dortmund got off to a flying start in their opening matchday fixture against Eintracht Frankfurt, with Oliver Glasner's side looking completely out of sorts. Marco Rose's men on the other hand completely took the game to Frankfurt, with Haaland, Reus and co. in full flow. Here is our tactical analysis of Dortmund's first match and all the wonders they accomplished.
Can Barcelona cope with life after Messi?
The moment every Barcelona fan had been dreading for years has finally arrived. Lionel Messi has left the club as a free agent, unable to pen a new contract, which had apparently been agreed months ago. While there could be more than meets the eye regarding the current situation, the Catalan giants must now prepare for a new era without their most successful player ever.
Will Jadon Sancho Inspire New Life at Old Trafford? – Tactical Analysis
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
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.
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