Tag: Player Analysis

Game of Numbers #40 – Bruno Fernandes as an ‘8’

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

They might not be firmly in the top four yet, but Ruben Amorim's Manchester United have seen significant improvement this season. Much has been made in the media about Amorim's use of the 3-4-2-1 and whether or not it's a perfect fit for players like Bruno Fernandes and his midfield partner Casemiro. But with some new signings hitting the ground running, Manchester United are clicking on all cylinders and getting the best out of their best players. Here is why Ruben Amorim's use of Bruno as an '8' has worked so far in 2025-26.

Game of Numbers #39 – Erling Haaland’s backstep before goals

Featured by Rhys Desmond, posted in Coaching, Game of Numbers, Masterclasses, Match Analysis, Most Recent, Player Analysis, Premier League, Striker

Manchester City have scored 15 goals in the Premier League's opening 8 matches. Erling Haaland has scored 11 of them. And among many of those goals, a common trend has emerged. I call it - the backstep!

Chloe Kelly has the strongest mental frame in Women’s Football

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Player Analysis, Winger, Women's Football, World Football

One of my biggest disappointments of not having a functioning laptop the past few weeks has been my inability to watch the Women’s Euros. But I’ve seen all the highlights, and just about every single time a highlight comes on of the Women’s Euros lately, England’s Chloe Kelly remains a prime fixture. Chloe Kelly, for … Continue reading Chloe Kelly has the strongest mental frame in Women’s Football

A tribute to Diogo Jota

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Premier League, Striker

The Portuguese striker netted 34 goals in 85 appearances across all competitions in his first two seasons, developing a knack for finishing off chances in the penalty area. What became perhaps most impressive about Jota's early years at Liverpool was his surprise knack for scoring headed goals.

Why Brian White scores so many goals

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Striker

The Vancouver Whitecaps have been flying high this year, and the man at the centre of it all has been their leading scorer - Brian White. I break down exactly why Brian White scores so many goals, and what other forwards learning their trade can take away from White's scoring record so far in 2025. Let's dive in!

Toronto FC 0-0 Vancouver Whitecaps – Match Analysis

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Masterclasses, Match Analysis, Most Recent

After a stellar unbeaten run to start the season, the Vancouver Whitecaps have slowed their speed, desperately trying to manage a condensed list of fixtures. It feels as though they're yet to come away from ninety minutes of MLS action without losing a key player to injury, and this match could prove more catastrophic than desired as both Mathias Laborda and Andrés Cubas suffered the same fate. Nevertheless, the Whitecaps have strength within the depth of their team, and that is exactly what we saw as they secured a hard-earned draw against TFC. Here is my match analysis of the Whitecaps' 0-0 draw with Toronto FC, in the form of dissecting the three main stars of the match.

Game of Numbers #38 – Alejandro Garnacho’s intensity & awareness

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

It's amazing to think that Alejandro Garnacho is only 19 years of age. Sometimes, you can see the rawness in his game. The facets that still need to be carefully developed. But as he ages, let's hope he never loses his tenacity. His hunger for more. His appetite to win at all costs, even when no one else is pulling their weight. He might not have the soaring high stats to back this up, but I truly believe Alejandro Garnacho is one of the players of this season in the Premier League. That's promising for United, who so desperately need something to cling onto for the future. Here is Game of Numbers #38, including what makes Alejandro Garnacho one of the best young players in the Prem.