Barcelona have started the season off unbeaten, but it hasn't been the two most convincing performances from Xavi Hernandez's team, as they continue to adjust to the array of midfield talent they have at their disposal. Here is Game of Numbers #25, starting with Barcelona's use of Frenkie de Jong as a centre-back.
Despite his versatility to play across the pitch, the former TFC academy product started just 16 matches in 2022. But flashes of brilliance were there for all to see, constantly taking the game to the opposition through his dynamic dribbling and tactical intelligence. This season, Patrice Gheisar has fully trusted Daniels to be the star player in his attack, ensuring that he can give the ball-playing wizard a free role off the right of his 4-2-3-1. This has allowed Daniels to flourish, where he's been one of the undeniable stars of the season in 2023. Here is what makes the 24-year-old one of the top prospects coming out of the Canadian Premier League this season.
Following a move from Pacific to Atletico Ottawa ahead of the 2022 season, Ollie Bassett has been regarded by many to be one of the Canadian Premier League's most prized assets. His stunning 2022 campaign ended with 11 goal contributions to his name in 30 appearances from central midfield; not to mention a league title, and the division's MVP award. This season, Bassett's been just as influential, already matching his 8 goal, 3 assist tally from 2022 in fewer appearances.
Manchester City might have won the UEFA Super Cup, but it was not the most convincing of victories from the Citizens. The match against Sevilla served as one of the first examples I've seen of Guardiola going against his typical brilliance in adapting to the moment and his players available, and sticking to a system instead. Here's an analysis of why Manchester City set up in a way that was less than optimal against Sevilla.
With the likes of Aitana Bonmatí, Mariona Caldentey, and Ona Batlle back in the fold following the dispute, Spain have been firmly on fire at the World Cup. They've lost just one game in their possession-heavy flamboyance, a 4-0 loss to the counter-attacking genius of Japan in the group stage. Since then, Vilda's team have been untouchable, and now prepare for a World Cup Final. Here is a tactical analysis of Spain at the 2023 Women's World Cup.
With the recent additions of FC Barcelona legends Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and of course, Lionel Messi, Inter Miami have suddenly built the most fun side in all of MLS. Inter Miami struggled to attain the success they wanted under Phil Neville, and getting the signature of former Barcelona manager Gerardo Martino might have been an equally valuable coup from the Florida-based club, ensuring they could have even more sway in the market. But since Messi's enter the fold in Florida, Inter Miami have been immensely fun to watch in the MLS, and have gone on an unbeaten run. Here is the heat that Messi has brought to Miami since joining in June.
It might be desperately close to the start of the season, but West Ham United have finally signed their Declan Rice replacement at the base of their midfield. In my in-depth analysis of who the Hammers should sign, I ranked Álvarez second to Florentino Luís, as an absolute must-sign. For the fee they accumulated for Rice, I made the claim that they should sign both players, especially given the Mexican's exceptional awareness on the defensive end, whilst complimenting much of Rice's on-the-ball dominance. Here is why West Ham United made the right call in signing Álvarez, and why the £33 million signing should be a steal.
The Harry Kane saga has been the longest-standing sagas of all transfer happenings over the past few seasons. This week, it might finally come to an end with Bayern Munich putting down a bid that Tottenham would be crazy to turn down. It might be a hefty, club record-breaking fee, but Harry Kane perfectly fits the way that Thomas Tuchel wants to play. With that, here is what Kane will bring to Bayern, and why the club were so persistent in securing his signature.
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