Manu Fernandez/AP
The world of football is indescribably vast; it’s hard for somebody to claim total control over it in the manner of a Michael Jordan or Usain Bolt. Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are considered the dual kings of the beautiful game, for example, but both men have enjoyed very limited success on the international stage – at least relative to their immense talents.
When predicting the men set to dominate in 2016, it’s important to not merely focus on the current cream of the crop, but to take into account all types of players – from seasoned veterans enjoying a late resurgence to young, raw upstarts. All across the world, from Birmingham to Buenos Aires, footballers are gearing up to enjoy a very fruitful year.
Come the end of 2016, the landscape of football will have shifted immeasurably. The stature of former youth team players will have gone through the roof,...
The world of football is indescribably vast; it’s hard for somebody to claim total control over it in the manner of a Michael Jordan or Usain Bolt. Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are considered the dual kings of the beautiful game, for example, but both men have enjoyed very limited success on the international stage – at least relative to their immense talents.
When predicting the men set to dominate in 2016, it’s important to not merely focus on the current cream of the crop, but to take into account all types of players – from seasoned veterans enjoying a late resurgence to young, raw upstarts. All across the world, from Birmingham to Buenos Aires, footballers are gearing up to enjoy a very fruitful year.
Come the end of 2016, the landscape of football will have shifted immeasurably. The stature of former youth team players will have gone through the roof,...
- 1/7/2016
- by WhatCulture
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP
Arda Turan looks set to star in his first game for Barcelona since signing for the club in July 2014, according to BBC Sport.
The 28-year-old was signed with the hefty price tag of £26 million but was unable to play for the Spanish top flight leaders until their transfer ban was lifted at the start of 2016.
This also means highly-rated right back Aleix Vidal is now available for consideration. The Chilean international cost £13 million and is expected to provide competition for the iconic Dani Alves as Barcelona seek to land back-to-back league titles for the first time since 2011.
Barcelona won the Club World Championship over the festive period, but an injury to Neymar and worries over Lionel Messi’s fitness has meant that Turan’s addition to the squad is very well timed. He was a key part of the Atletico Madrid side that stunned Europe by storming...
Arda Turan looks set to star in his first game for Barcelona since signing for the club in July 2014, according to BBC Sport.
The 28-year-old was signed with the hefty price tag of £26 million but was unable to play for the Spanish top flight leaders until their transfer ban was lifted at the start of 2016.
This also means highly-rated right back Aleix Vidal is now available for consideration. The Chilean international cost £13 million and is expected to provide competition for the iconic Dani Alves as Barcelona seek to land back-to-back league titles for the first time since 2011.
Barcelona won the Club World Championship over the festive period, but an injury to Neymar and worries over Lionel Messi’s fitness has meant that Turan’s addition to the squad is very well timed. He was a key part of the Atletico Madrid side that stunned Europe by storming...
- 1/5/2016
- by Michael Potts
- Obsessed with Film
© Ina Fassbender/Reuters/Corbis
Liverpool fans are urging new boss Jurgen Klopp to make a January transfer window swoop for Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
According to the Independent, fans on Merseyside have taken to social media to voice their concerns over the performances of current Liverpool stopper Simon Mignolet and have pushed the Reds boss to make a move for ter Stegen as his replacement.
With only 4 league appearances to his name in the 18 months since the young German international ‘keeper made the switch to the Nou Camp, ter Stegen is said to be considering his future in Spain in order to secure a place in his country’s Euro 2016 squad.
Barca boss Luis Enrique seemingly doesn’t have the stopper in his plans with Claudio Bravo firmly placed as the La Liga champions number one, with ter Stegen noticeably absent from the recent Club World Cup tournament.
Manu Fernandez...
Liverpool fans are urging new boss Jurgen Klopp to make a January transfer window swoop for Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
According to the Independent, fans on Merseyside have taken to social media to voice their concerns over the performances of current Liverpool stopper Simon Mignolet and have pushed the Reds boss to make a move for ter Stegen as his replacement.
With only 4 league appearances to his name in the 18 months since the young German international ‘keeper made the switch to the Nou Camp, ter Stegen is said to be considering his future in Spain in order to secure a place in his country’s Euro 2016 squad.
Barca boss Luis Enrique seemingly doesn’t have the stopper in his plans with Claudio Bravo firmly placed as the La Liga champions number one, with ter Stegen noticeably absent from the recent Club World Cup tournament.
Manu Fernandez...
- 12/24/2015
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP
Georginio Wijnaldum is “looking forward” to potentially making his Newcastle United debut against Sacramento Republic this weekend after training with the squad for the first time.
The £14.5 million signing from Psv Eindhoven touched down in California on Wednesday and took part in his opening Magpies pre-season training session on Thursday.
While the Dutchman is hoping to make his debut against Sacramento on Saturday night (Sunday morning in the UK), Steve McClaren has insisted he will assess the attacking-midfielder’s fitness before throwing him into the fray.
Pavel Golovkin/AP
Speaking to nufcTV after his first Newcastle training session on Thursday, Wijnaldum said ahead of the game:
“Yes I look forward (to making my debut against Sacremento) to playing with my new team as I want to play with my teammates on the pitch.
“Today I could see how good they are so I want to see them during the game.
Georginio Wijnaldum is “looking forward” to potentially making his Newcastle United debut against Sacramento Republic this weekend after training with the squad for the first time.
The £14.5 million signing from Psv Eindhoven touched down in California on Wednesday and took part in his opening Magpies pre-season training session on Thursday.
While the Dutchman is hoping to make his debut against Sacramento on Saturday night (Sunday morning in the UK), Steve McClaren has insisted he will assess the attacking-midfielder’s fitness before throwing him into the fray.
Pavel Golovkin/AP
Speaking to nufcTV after his first Newcastle training session on Thursday, Wijnaldum said ahead of the game:
“Yes I look forward (to making my debut against Sacremento) to playing with my new team as I want to play with my teammates on the pitch.
“Today I could see how good they are so I want to see them during the game.
- 7/17/2015
- by Chris Waugh
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP
Newcastle United have completed the signing of Georginio Wijnaldum from Psv Eindhoven as Steve McClaren’s Magpies tenure finally begins to gather momentum – and the midfielder says he already has a “good feeling” about the club.
Psv Eindhoven announced on Friday that the 24-year-old was heading to Tyneside after they agreed a £14.5 million fee with Newcastle and the attacking-midfielder has now signed a five-year deal following the successful completion of his medical.
The Dutch international touched down at Newcastle International Airport early on Friday afternoon and was then whisked straight off to complete his medical before finally confirming the deal. He becomes the club’s first signing in 335 days – since the acquisition of both Karl Darlow and Jamaal Lascelles in a joint deal from Nottingham Forest, only for the pair to be sent straight back out on loan to the Championship side.
Pavel Golovkin/AP
Whatculture.com...
Newcastle United have completed the signing of Georginio Wijnaldum from Psv Eindhoven as Steve McClaren’s Magpies tenure finally begins to gather momentum – and the midfielder says he already has a “good feeling” about the club.
Psv Eindhoven announced on Friday that the 24-year-old was heading to Tyneside after they agreed a £14.5 million fee with Newcastle and the attacking-midfielder has now signed a five-year deal following the successful completion of his medical.
The Dutch international touched down at Newcastle International Airport early on Friday afternoon and was then whisked straight off to complete his medical before finally confirming the deal. He becomes the club’s first signing in 335 days – since the acquisition of both Karl Darlow and Jamaal Lascelles in a joint deal from Nottingham Forest, only for the pair to be sent straight back out on loan to the Championship side.
Pavel Golovkin/AP
Whatculture.com...
- 7/11/2015
- by Chris Waugh
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP
Newcastle United are set to snap up Psv Eindhoven midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum as they make their first big foray into the transfer market this summer. It’s been a long time coming, but Wijnaldum is an exciting acquisition, that’s for sure.
As the club continue to scour Europe for affordably-priced talent, Graham Carr and his network of scouts have reportedly cast their eyes over a number of Dutchmen as the French market appears to move outside the club’s price range.
Eredivisie is seen as a league ready to be picked off with wages and transfer fees comparatively cheap compared to the likes of France, Germany and Spain, while this summer has also seen a host of other Netherlands natives linked away from clubs elsewhere around Europe.
After new boss Steve McClaren’s two stints in Holland with Fc Twente (one of which saw the Englishman...
Newcastle United are set to snap up Psv Eindhoven midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum as they make their first big foray into the transfer market this summer. It’s been a long time coming, but Wijnaldum is an exciting acquisition, that’s for sure.
As the club continue to scour Europe for affordably-priced talent, Graham Carr and his network of scouts have reportedly cast their eyes over a number of Dutchmen as the French market appears to move outside the club’s price range.
Eredivisie is seen as a league ready to be picked off with wages and transfer fees comparatively cheap compared to the likes of France, Germany and Spain, while this summer has also seen a host of other Netherlands natives linked away from clubs elsewhere around Europe.
After new boss Steve McClaren’s two stints in Holland with Fc Twente (one of which saw the Englishman...
- 7/10/2015
- by Sean Douglass
- Obsessed with Film
Scott Heppell/AP
Newcastle United are looking to add an “unnamed target” to their ranks before they head out on their pre-season tour to the USA this weekend.
That is according to The Chronicle, who claim the club are confident moves for Psv Eindhoven midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum and for this “unnamed target” can “progress further” in the coming days.
Anderlecht forward Aleksandar Mitrovic has been heavily linked with a move to Tyneside in recent days, as has Northampton Town youngster Ivan Toney, but it is unclear whether or not this refers to either of the pair.
Manu Fernandez/AP
Meanwhile top of Newcastle’s defensive shopping list is Schalke 04 centre-back Joel Matip, who is available for around £10 million this summer due to the fact he has just a year remaining on his contract.
In addition, there is of course the possibility it could refer to Queens Park Rangers forward Charlie Austin,...
Newcastle United are looking to add an “unnamed target” to their ranks before they head out on their pre-season tour to the USA this weekend.
That is according to The Chronicle, who claim the club are confident moves for Psv Eindhoven midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum and for this “unnamed target” can “progress further” in the coming days.
Anderlecht forward Aleksandar Mitrovic has been heavily linked with a move to Tyneside in recent days, as has Northampton Town youngster Ivan Toney, but it is unclear whether or not this refers to either of the pair.
Manu Fernandez/AP
Meanwhile top of Newcastle’s defensive shopping list is Schalke 04 centre-back Joel Matip, who is available for around £10 million this summer due to the fact he has just a year remaining on his contract.
In addition, there is of course the possibility it could refer to Queens Park Rangers forward Charlie Austin,...
- 7/9/2015
- by Chris Waugh
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP
Newcastle United and Liverpool have been warned off pursuing a deal for Georginio Wijnaldum this summer after Memphis Depay agreed to leave Psv Eindhoven for Manchester United.
Midfielder Wijnaldum has already been capped 18 times by Holland, scoring twice, and is regarded as one of the most-promising players in Europe due to the fact he has a habit of finding the back of the net.
Both Newcastle and Liverpool have been keeping tabs on the 24-year-old, but Psv’s sporting director has claimed the Dutch club would be unlikely to countenance a deal for another one of their star players to leave following Depay’s £25 million move to Man United.
Ivan Sekretarev/AP
Marcel Brands, the sporting director of the Eredivisie champions, told Sky Sports:
“We have not had any contact with Liverpool (or anyone else) about Wijnaldum.
“We hope to keep the rest of the team together...
Newcastle United and Liverpool have been warned off pursuing a deal for Georginio Wijnaldum this summer after Memphis Depay agreed to leave Psv Eindhoven for Manchester United.
Midfielder Wijnaldum has already been capped 18 times by Holland, scoring twice, and is regarded as one of the most-promising players in Europe due to the fact he has a habit of finding the back of the net.
Both Newcastle and Liverpool have been keeping tabs on the 24-year-old, but Psv’s sporting director has claimed the Dutch club would be unlikely to countenance a deal for another one of their star players to leave following Depay’s £25 million move to Man United.
Ivan Sekretarev/AP
Marcel Brands, the sporting director of the Eredivisie champions, told Sky Sports:
“We have not had any contact with Liverpool (or anyone else) about Wijnaldum.
“We hope to keep the rest of the team together...
- 5/8/2015
- by Chris Waugh
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP
Sometimes you just have to sit back and wonder how some of EA Sports’ employees deserve to make a living.
You also have to wonder if some of the developers at EA are football fans or have access to a television in their caves to see what actually goes on in the real-life version of their leading game.
Let’s start off by giving credit where credit is due. FIFA is almost untouchable in the football gaming stakes. Pro Evolution, as quirky as it once was, has severely dropped off since the release of the PlayStation 3 back in 2007. This lack of competition means us football fans, who enjoy a dabble on a console from time to time, have to accept the ratings EA awards as gospel even if we vehemently disagree with them.
FIFA’s dominance means they must have the cream of the crop working for them,...
Sometimes you just have to sit back and wonder how some of EA Sports’ employees deserve to make a living.
You also have to wonder if some of the developers at EA are football fans or have access to a television in their caves to see what actually goes on in the real-life version of their leading game.
Let’s start off by giving credit where credit is due. FIFA is almost untouchable in the football gaming stakes. Pro Evolution, as quirky as it once was, has severely dropped off since the release of the PlayStation 3 back in 2007. This lack of competition means us football fans, who enjoy a dabble on a console from time to time, have to accept the ratings EA awards as gospel even if we vehemently disagree with them.
FIFA’s dominance means they must have the cream of the crop working for them,...
- 1/5/2015
- by Ross Tweddell
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP
Football is very subjective a lot of the time, whether it be discussing the best players in the world, the worst players ever to play for your respective clubs or the greatest international sides of all time. The topic of the most underrated footballers in the game is no different, and there are many players who are criminally under-appreciated by fans, the media and, sometimes, even colleagues.
The players on this list are all household names, rather than unknowns who get absolutely no credit- some are even deemed world-class- but they are still overshadowed by other teammates and go about their business winning far less praise than others.
Some will argue that, to have reached the level they are at- every player in this list, barring one, is playing in the Champions League this season- means they cannot be called underrated, but it’s all relative at the end of the day.
Football is very subjective a lot of the time, whether it be discussing the best players in the world, the worst players ever to play for your respective clubs or the greatest international sides of all time. The topic of the most underrated footballers in the game is no different, and there are many players who are criminally under-appreciated by fans, the media and, sometimes, even colleagues.
The players on this list are all household names, rather than unknowns who get absolutely no credit- some are even deemed world-class- but they are still overshadowed by other teammates and go about their business winning far less praise than others.
Some will argue that, to have reached the level they are at- every player in this list, barring one, is playing in the Champions League this season- means they cannot be called underrated, but it’s all relative at the end of the day.
- 11/21/2014
- by Henry Jackson
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
Ahead of the much anticipated release of FIFA 15, game developers EA Sports have already given us something to whet our appetites. But the newly revealed Top 50 players will cause some contention!
As it is every year, the new rankings before the game’s release gets people talking. Each of us may think that we’re so much better at FIFA than the rest of our friends (I am, trust me) but what good are you if you don’t have the tools to work with? Endless debate rages on over who should be the highest rated players on each edition of the franchise, and with good reason.
Everybody is entitled to their opinion, but that’s what helps make FIFA so great. The game play is second to none, but the banter is priceless – and that can start in earnest from the September 26th release date.
Ahead of the much anticipated release of FIFA 15, game developers EA Sports have already given us something to whet our appetites. But the newly revealed Top 50 players will cause some contention!
As it is every year, the new rankings before the game’s release gets people talking. Each of us may think that we’re so much better at FIFA than the rest of our friends (I am, trust me) but what good are you if you don’t have the tools to work with? Endless debate rages on over who should be the highest rated players on each edition of the franchise, and with good reason.
Everybody is entitled to their opinion, but that’s what helps make FIFA so great. The game play is second to none, but the banter is priceless – and that can start in earnest from the September 26th release date.
- 9/11/2014
- by Scott Saunders
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
Despite suspicions that Argentinian winger Angel Di Maria might be on the verge of a move to Paris St German, after they offered him €8m in wages, it looks like the player is instead on his way to Man Utd.
And according to Sky Sports’ Spanish expert Guillem Balague, United have got a former player to thank for the player’s change of heart, as Cristiano Ronaldo has apparently sold a move to United to the winger.
Balague says that the deal could be worth between €60m and €70m – or around £50m – which would make Di Maria United’s fourth major signing of the summer.
Di Maria is a hugely talented attacker and should slot in to the Premier League well, and though he isn’t exactly prolific in front of goal, he will add further attacking bite to Van Gaal’s midfield, after...
Despite suspicions that Argentinian winger Angel Di Maria might be on the verge of a move to Paris St German, after they offered him €8m in wages, it looks like the player is instead on his way to Man Utd.
And according to Sky Sports’ Spanish expert Guillem Balague, United have got a former player to thank for the player’s change of heart, as Cristiano Ronaldo has apparently sold a move to United to the winger.
Balague says that the deal could be worth between €60m and €70m – or around £50m – which would make Di Maria United’s fourth major signing of the summer.
Di Maria is a hugely talented attacker and should slot in to the Premier League well, and though he isn’t exactly prolific in front of goal, he will add further attacking bite to Van Gaal’s midfield, after...
- 8/23/2014
- by Simon Gallagher
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
Often perceived as the unfashionable kid brother to their North-East counterparts Newcastle United, despite their arch-rivals lack of silverware lifting in recent decades, Sunderland supporters have grown weary at the lack of recognition. Mocked and derided for collecting the tag of ‘worst Premier League side in history’ with a pathetic total of 19 points in 2003, they would go on to outdo themselves with four points less upon their return in 2005.
So when Roy Keane assumed the reigns of control in 2006, he wasn’t just stepping into a relegated club down on its’ luck – he was entering a mess. A club devoid of any self-confidence or belief, they were only heading one way before his arrival, with four successive losses opening the curtain on what would prove to be a rejuvenating season for the club.
Once in the Premier League, Keane would go about using his...
Often perceived as the unfashionable kid brother to their North-East counterparts Newcastle United, despite their arch-rivals lack of silverware lifting in recent decades, Sunderland supporters have grown weary at the lack of recognition. Mocked and derided for collecting the tag of ‘worst Premier League side in history’ with a pathetic total of 19 points in 2003, they would go on to outdo themselves with four points less upon their return in 2005.
So when Roy Keane assumed the reigns of control in 2006, he wasn’t just stepping into a relegated club down on its’ luck – he was entering a mess. A club devoid of any self-confidence or belief, they were only heading one way before his arrival, with four successive losses opening the curtain on what would prove to be a rejuvenating season for the club.
Once in the Premier League, Keane would go about using his...
- 8/9/2014
- by Michael Ramsay
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
For the likes of Luis Suarez and Neymar Jr., joining Barcelona is something of a ‘dream come true’. It is the culmination of years of hard work, serving as a sense of vindication for their countless past sacrifices which led them down their respective paths. Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, Maradona – names of the Catalonian alumni roll right off the tongue. Once you walk through the cobblestoned arches of the Nou Camp, you know you have entered an extraordinary arena. When this Catalan club, steeped in history and tradition, pays you the honour of signalling their interest in acquiring your services, the last word that should be heard uttered from your lips is ‘no’.
However, for a plethora of big-name stars of the past, that is precisely what they should have done. For them, their so-called ‘dreams’ have quickly transcended into something of a nightmare. Arguably the...
For the likes of Luis Suarez and Neymar Jr., joining Barcelona is something of a ‘dream come true’. It is the culmination of years of hard work, serving as a sense of vindication for their countless past sacrifices which led them down their respective paths. Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, Maradona – names of the Catalonian alumni roll right off the tongue. Once you walk through the cobblestoned arches of the Nou Camp, you know you have entered an extraordinary arena. When this Catalan club, steeped in history and tradition, pays you the honour of signalling their interest in acquiring your services, the last word that should be heard uttered from your lips is ‘no’.
However, for a plethora of big-name stars of the past, that is precisely what they should have done. For them, their so-called ‘dreams’ have quickly transcended into something of a nightmare. Arguably the...
- 7/24/2014
- by Michael Ramsay
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
With the departure of Luis Suarez giving Brendan Rodgers an extra £70m or so to play with this summer, things are certainly going on at Liverpool. Having already signed a couple of Southampton players and Emre Can, the club have also stengthened with Lazar Markovic and are widely expected to wrap up a deal to bring in Loic Remy: but it doesn’t end there.
Rodgers has now apparently turned his attention to Manchester, in the hope of offering an escape route to James Milner as they make tentative inquires about the availability of the English midfielder. Milner, who is also being circled by Everton, Arsenal and Sunderland so far this summer should be tired of being on the bench at City and only started 11 games in their league winning campaign. And even if a giant wage packet is a great antiseptic, he can...
With the departure of Luis Suarez giving Brendan Rodgers an extra £70m or so to play with this summer, things are certainly going on at Liverpool. Having already signed a couple of Southampton players and Emre Can, the club have also stengthened with Lazar Markovic and are widely expected to wrap up a deal to bring in Loic Remy: but it doesn’t end there.
Rodgers has now apparently turned his attention to Manchester, in the hope of offering an escape route to James Milner as they make tentative inquires about the availability of the English midfielder. Milner, who is also being circled by Everton, Arsenal and Sunderland so far this summer should be tired of being on the bench at City and only started 11 games in their league winning campaign. And even if a giant wage packet is a great antiseptic, he can...
- 7/21/2014
- by Gary Johnson
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
West Ham have never strangers to the bizarre. Sports media outlets came to a virtual standstill on transfer deadline day eight years ago, when following the 2006 World Cup, Javier Mascherano and Carlos Tevez - two of the most sought after youngsters in world football, and linked with a host of top clubs – defied everyone to become Hammers. Real Madrid, Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal had been sniffing around the duo for the best part of 18 months, so there were jaws on the floor when press photos emerged of the immensely talented pair holding up Hammers jerseys, sandwiching a beaming Alan Pardew, who could hardly believe his luck. (That he decided neither were good enough within a matter of ludicrous months is neither here nor there).
Gazumping the elite clubs on that particular occasion must have come as quite a welcome shock to West Ham supporters,...
West Ham have never strangers to the bizarre. Sports media outlets came to a virtual standstill on transfer deadline day eight years ago, when following the 2006 World Cup, Javier Mascherano and Carlos Tevez - two of the most sought after youngsters in world football, and linked with a host of top clubs – defied everyone to become Hammers. Real Madrid, Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal had been sniffing around the duo for the best part of 18 months, so there were jaws on the floor when press photos emerged of the immensely talented pair holding up Hammers jerseys, sandwiching a beaming Alan Pardew, who could hardly believe his luck. (That he decided neither were good enough within a matter of ludicrous months is neither here nor there).
Gazumping the elite clubs on that particular occasion must have come as quite a welcome shock to West Ham supporters,...
- 7/21/2014
- by Michael Ramsay
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
Arsenal’s reputation in recent years has been of a club that lets superstars when they should be fighting tooth and nail to keep them and build on them. The likes of Robin van Persie, Patrick Viera, Cesc Fabregas, Thierry Henry, Ashley Cole and Samir Nasri were all sold when it was believed they still had far more to offer.
Though Arsenal most certainly are guilty of releasing players they should have fought to keep, there are also many players who arguably should have either left Wenger’s team before they did or never even signed with the Gunners to begin with. Whether because they didn’t win any silverware in north London or because they spent long bouts receiving little to no time on the field, there is a contingent of players who we believe wished they never made the move to north London.
Arsenal’s reputation in recent years has been of a club that lets superstars when they should be fighting tooth and nail to keep them and build on them. The likes of Robin van Persie, Patrick Viera, Cesc Fabregas, Thierry Henry, Ashley Cole and Samir Nasri were all sold when it was believed they still had far more to offer.
Though Arsenal most certainly are guilty of releasing players they should have fought to keep, there are also many players who arguably should have either left Wenger’s team before they did or never even signed with the Gunners to begin with. Whether because they didn’t win any silverware in north London or because they spent long bouts receiving little to no time on the field, there is a contingent of players who we believe wished they never made the move to north London.
- 7/19/2014
- by Sam Heard
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
As one of the most-supported and most successful football teams in Spain, Barcelona have been able to attract world class talent to the Nou Camp over the years, from Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Rivaldo to Neymar and Luis Suarez. This summer, Suarez became the latest global star to make the move to Catalonia, completing a £75 million move from Liverpool.
The deal – the third-most expensive in the history of Spanish football – showed that Barca are prepared to pay what it takes to attract top talent, and also that they remain a hugely attractive option for players, despite suffering through their first trophy-less season in six years.
With their Nou Camp stadium boasting a capacity of almost 100,000, the lure of trotting out in front of thousands of fans crammed inside Europe’s largest stadium is often too hard a temptation to resist. However, despite this, some have...
As one of the most-supported and most successful football teams in Spain, Barcelona have been able to attract world class talent to the Nou Camp over the years, from Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Rivaldo to Neymar and Luis Suarez. This summer, Suarez became the latest global star to make the move to Catalonia, completing a £75 million move from Liverpool.
The deal – the third-most expensive in the history of Spanish football – showed that Barca are prepared to pay what it takes to attract top talent, and also that they remain a hugely attractive option for players, despite suffering through their first trophy-less season in six years.
With their Nou Camp stadium boasting a capacity of almost 100,000, the lure of trotting out in front of thousands of fans crammed inside Europe’s largest stadium is often too hard a temptation to resist. However, despite this, some have...
- 7/14/2014
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
Arsenal are close to signing Barcelona forward Alexis Sanchez, according to the BBC. The two clubs have struck a £30 million deal for the Chile international, who has agreed personal terms and is set to become manager Arsene Wenger’s first signing of the summer.
The Gunner’s Premier League rivals Liverpool were interested in signing Sanchez as a replacement for Barca-bound Luis Suarez, while Juventus were also keen, but Arsenal have beaten both to the punch for the exciting 25-year-old, who scored 19 La Liga goals last season, finishing as the division’s fourth-highest goalscorer ahead of the likes of Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale.
But what else do we know about Arsenal’s newest recruit? The London side are about to shell out a sizable transfer fee for Sanchez, and fans may be wondering what their club are getting for their money.
Arsenal are close to signing Barcelona forward Alexis Sanchez, according to the BBC. The two clubs have struck a £30 million deal for the Chile international, who has agreed personal terms and is set to become manager Arsene Wenger’s first signing of the summer.
The Gunner’s Premier League rivals Liverpool were interested in signing Sanchez as a replacement for Barca-bound Luis Suarez, while Juventus were also keen, but Arsenal have beaten both to the punch for the exciting 25-year-old, who scored 19 La Liga goals last season, finishing as the division’s fourth-highest goalscorer ahead of the likes of Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale.
But what else do we know about Arsenal’s newest recruit? The London side are about to shell out a sizable transfer fee for Sanchez, and fans may be wondering what their club are getting for their money.
- 7/10/2014
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
Arsenal are growing increasingly confident of beating Juventus to the signing of Barcelona’s Alexis Sanchez.
Arsene Wenger has labelled the Chile international as his main transfer target this summer, with the club hopeful a deal can take place.
Reports elsewhere claim that a fee has been agreed between the Gunners and Barcelona, but as yet their is no official confirmation from either party.
However, according to The Daily Telegraph, Arsenal are optimistic that the transfer can be completed despite no word of an official agreement.
Liverpool have now admitted defeat in their bid to sign Sanchez, after the attacker turned down the chance of a move to Anfield.
The club had been hoping to sign Sanchez as part of a transfer that would see Luis Suarez move the other way, but that is now expected to be a straight cash deal.
The other...
Arsenal are growing increasingly confident of beating Juventus to the signing of Barcelona’s Alexis Sanchez.
Arsene Wenger has labelled the Chile international as his main transfer target this summer, with the club hopeful a deal can take place.
Reports elsewhere claim that a fee has been agreed between the Gunners and Barcelona, but as yet their is no official confirmation from either party.
However, according to The Daily Telegraph, Arsenal are optimistic that the transfer can be completed despite no word of an official agreement.
Liverpool have now admitted defeat in their bid to sign Sanchez, after the attacker turned down the chance of a move to Anfield.
The club had been hoping to sign Sanchez as part of a transfer that would see Luis Suarez move the other way, but that is now expected to be a straight cash deal.
The other...
- 7/9/2014
- by Simon Collings
- Obsessed with Film
Frank Augstein/AP/Press Association Images
World Cup hosts Brazil will be without Neymar for the rest of the competition after the striker fractured vertebrae in the quarter-final clash against Colombia.
Captain Thiago Silva is banned meaning Dante is likely to start, while Luis Gustavo returns from suspension.
Germany manager Joachim Low may recall Per Mertesacker after the centre-back was dropped in the last round against France.
Low has reported no new injury concerns ahead of the meeting with Brazil.
(BBC)
Key Stats
Brazil and Germany have played more World Cup matches than any other side (102 and 104 respectively), but have only met once before at the tournament. That was the 2002 final, won 2-0 by the Brazilians.
Injured Brazilian striker Neymar has played a part in 50% of Brazil’s 10 goals at this World Cup (four goals, one assist).
The Germans are the first country to reach four successive World Cup semi-finals.
World Cup hosts Brazil will be without Neymar for the rest of the competition after the striker fractured vertebrae in the quarter-final clash against Colombia.
Captain Thiago Silva is banned meaning Dante is likely to start, while Luis Gustavo returns from suspension.
Germany manager Joachim Low may recall Per Mertesacker after the centre-back was dropped in the last round against France.
Low has reported no new injury concerns ahead of the meeting with Brazil.
(BBC)
Key Stats
Brazil and Germany have played more World Cup matches than any other side (102 and 104 respectively), but have only met once before at the tournament. That was the 2002 final, won 2-0 by the Brazilians.
Injured Brazilian striker Neymar has played a part in 50% of Brazil’s 10 goals at this World Cup (four goals, one assist).
The Germans are the first country to reach four successive World Cup semi-finals.
- 7/8/2014
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
The transfer of Alexis Sanchez from Barcelona to Arsenal appears to be moving closer by the day: reports are even now stating that a fee has been agreed between the two clubs, although nothing official has been announced yet.
Understandably, Arsenal fans are very excited about the prospect of signing Sanchez, especially after the Chile international impressed at this summer’s FIFA World Cup, scoring two goals during his country’s run to the last 16.
For a while it had been thought that Sanchez would be on his way to Liverpool, potentially as a part of the deal which will see Luis Suarez playing his football at the Nou Camp next season, but the attacker has now reportedly turned down Brendan Rodger’s side and declared his desire to join for Arsenal.
The move is perhaps not as simple as merely acknowledging desire and...
The transfer of Alexis Sanchez from Barcelona to Arsenal appears to be moving closer by the day: reports are even now stating that a fee has been agreed between the two clubs, although nothing official has been announced yet.
Understandably, Arsenal fans are very excited about the prospect of signing Sanchez, especially after the Chile international impressed at this summer’s FIFA World Cup, scoring two goals during his country’s run to the last 16.
For a while it had been thought that Sanchez would be on his way to Liverpool, potentially as a part of the deal which will see Luis Suarez playing his football at the Nou Camp next season, but the attacker has now reportedly turned down Brendan Rodger’s side and declared his desire to join for Arsenal.
The move is perhaps not as simple as merely acknowledging desire and...
- 7/8/2014
- by Simon Collings
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
Barcelona winger Alexis Sanchez is the subject of bids from several teams, according to the club’s Sporting Director Andoni Zubizarreta.
It is thought that the offers come from Premier League duo Arsenal and Liverpool, who have both been heavily linked with Sanchez.
The Chile international has enjoyed an impressive 12 months, scoring 20 goals last season for Barcelona and shining at the FIFA World Cup.
The London Evening Standard is now reporting that Barcelona have admitted to receiving a number of bids for Sanchez.
“Regarding the future of Alexis Sanchez, there have been offers for the player,” said Zubizarreta.
“But I do not how it will all end – we are looking for a solution which will be best for everyone.”
Arsenal are thought to be very keen on Sanchez, as the club look to strengthen their attacking options for the upcoming season.
The North London...
Barcelona winger Alexis Sanchez is the subject of bids from several teams, according to the club’s Sporting Director Andoni Zubizarreta.
It is thought that the offers come from Premier League duo Arsenal and Liverpool, who have both been heavily linked with Sanchez.
The Chile international has enjoyed an impressive 12 months, scoring 20 goals last season for Barcelona and shining at the FIFA World Cup.
The London Evening Standard is now reporting that Barcelona have admitted to receiving a number of bids for Sanchez.
“Regarding the future of Alexis Sanchez, there have been offers for the player,” said Zubizarreta.
“But I do not how it will all end – we are looking for a solution which will be best for everyone.”
Arsenal are thought to be very keen on Sanchez, as the club look to strengthen their attacking options for the upcoming season.
The North London...
- 7/2/2014
- by Simon Collings
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
FIFA Ultimate Team is without doubt one of the most addictive game modes offered in EA’s hugely popular football sim.
However, one of the most frustrating flaws with this exceptional game mode is that so many people play it that the price of desirable rare players quickly hyperinflates to a sum that will always be unachievable for most players. Want a Team of the Season Messi? Be prepared to fork out in excess of 2,500,000 gold for it. Perhaps a stronger forward like Team of the Season Zlatan? 3,300,000. Maybe a Team of the Season Ronaldo then? 5,800,000… Heck, even just a regular Ronaldo will set you back 1,500,000. And so, while Fut claims to give gamers the chance to amass a group of the greatest players of this generation all playing in the same kit, the reality is that unless you are willing to spend an...
FIFA Ultimate Team is without doubt one of the most addictive game modes offered in EA’s hugely popular football sim.
However, one of the most frustrating flaws with this exceptional game mode is that so many people play it that the price of desirable rare players quickly hyperinflates to a sum that will always be unachievable for most players. Want a Team of the Season Messi? Be prepared to fork out in excess of 2,500,000 gold for it. Perhaps a stronger forward like Team of the Season Zlatan? 3,300,000. Maybe a Team of the Season Ronaldo then? 5,800,000… Heck, even just a regular Ronaldo will set you back 1,500,000. And so, while Fut claims to give gamers the chance to amass a group of the greatest players of this generation all playing in the same kit, the reality is that unless you are willing to spend an...
- 5/31/2014
- by Sam Heard
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is looking to pull off a sensational coup by bringing former star Cesc Fabregas back to the Premier League, according to the Mirror.
Fabregas joined the Gunners as a youth from Barcelona and spent eight years in London before re-joining the Catalans in 2011, and now looks set for yet another switch.
Barca will listen to offers for the midfielder this summer, and Arsenal have first refusal as part of the deal that saw the 27-year-old return to the Nou Camp three years ago.
Fabregas is open to a move back to England and his strong relationship with Wenger, along with the buy-back clause in his current contract means the door is very much open for the Gunners.
Arsenal inserted the clause as part of his £30 million sale, meaning Barca have to inform them if they receive a bid, and Wenger...
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is looking to pull off a sensational coup by bringing former star Cesc Fabregas back to the Premier League, according to the Mirror.
Fabregas joined the Gunners as a youth from Barcelona and spent eight years in London before re-joining the Catalans in 2011, and now looks set for yet another switch.
Barca will listen to offers for the midfielder this summer, and Arsenal have first refusal as part of the deal that saw the 27-year-old return to the Nou Camp three years ago.
Fabregas is open to a move back to England and his strong relationship with Wenger, along with the buy-back clause in his current contract means the door is very much open for the Gunners.
Arsenal inserted the clause as part of his £30 million sale, meaning Barca have to inform them if they receive a bid, and Wenger...
- 5/23/2014
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
Despite winning the Premier League with Manchester City this season, James Milner has this weekend revealed a desire to leave the Etihad this summer. The Sunday People claim that he will tell his manager Manuel Pellegrini after the World Cup that he wishes to be transfer listed to “seek a new challenge” (football to reality translation – he wants to start every week).
Milner started just 17 times in the league this season, making a further 14 appearances from the bench. Crucially, the deciding final two games saw him play just 14 minutes on the final day against West Ham and be substituted on the hour mark against Aston Villa the midweek before.
The Sunday newspapers claim the likes of Arsenal, Spurs, Everton and Newcastle would be interested in his signature. His high wages, said to be £90,000 a week, would be a huge problem for Newcastle as he...
Despite winning the Premier League with Manchester City this season, James Milner has this weekend revealed a desire to leave the Etihad this summer. The Sunday People claim that he will tell his manager Manuel Pellegrini after the World Cup that he wishes to be transfer listed to “seek a new challenge” (football to reality translation – he wants to start every week).
Milner started just 17 times in the league this season, making a further 14 appearances from the bench. Crucially, the deciding final two games saw him play just 14 minutes on the final day against West Ham and be substituted on the hour mark against Aston Villa the midweek before.
The Sunday newspapers claim the likes of Arsenal, Spurs, Everton and Newcastle would be interested in his signature. His high wages, said to be £90,000 a week, would be a huge problem for Newcastle as he...
- 5/18/2014
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
Paul White/AP/Press Association Images
Date: Saturday, 17 May Venue: Nou Camp Kick-Off: 17:00
Spanish football is set for a title showdown this weekend as league leaders Atletico Madrid clash with Barcelona, with La Liga reaching its pulsating conclusion.
Team News
Barcelona will be without the retiring Carles Puyol for their crucial clash with Atletico. Puyol has suffered with knee injuries throughout the season and has played his last game for the club.
However, Neymar returns from a month-long layoff with a foot injury, while Gerard Pique and Jordi Alba are also set to return for Barca.
Atletico Madrid’s leading goalscorer this season, Diego Costa is fit following a hamstring strain.
(BBC)
Key Stats
Over the five games between the sides this season, there have been just three goals.
Barcelona will win La Liga if they defeat Atletico. A draw or a win for Madrid would see them clinch...
Date: Saturday, 17 May Venue: Nou Camp Kick-Off: 17:00
Spanish football is set for a title showdown this weekend as league leaders Atletico Madrid clash with Barcelona, with La Liga reaching its pulsating conclusion.
Team News
Barcelona will be without the retiring Carles Puyol for their crucial clash with Atletico. Puyol has suffered with knee injuries throughout the season and has played his last game for the club.
However, Neymar returns from a month-long layoff with a foot injury, while Gerard Pique and Jordi Alba are also set to return for Barca.
Atletico Madrid’s leading goalscorer this season, Diego Costa is fit following a hamstring strain.
(BBC)
Key Stats
Over the five games between the sides this season, there have been just three goals.
Barcelona will win La Liga if they defeat Atletico. A draw or a win for Madrid would see them clinch...
- 5/17/2014
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
Rarely has a summer transfer window been so important for a club, but the task facing Barcelona in the following months certainly falls into that bracket. The La Liga champions were handed a 14-month transfer ban in April by FIFA, for breaking rules on signing international players under the age of 18.
Barcelona contested the decision and consequently the ban has been suspended till January, pending an appeal. It means the club has the forthcoming summer transfer window to strengthen their squad, before being banned from activity in the next two.
Captain Carles Puyol has already announced that he will be departing, as has goalkeeper Victor Valdes. Add to that the fact that Dani Alves, Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Javier Mascherano will all be over 30-years-old come July, and it is clear that investment is needed.
There is talk of a huge squad overhaul at the Catalan club,...
Rarely has a summer transfer window been so important for a club, but the task facing Barcelona in the following months certainly falls into that bracket. The La Liga champions were handed a 14-month transfer ban in April by FIFA, for breaking rules on signing international players under the age of 18.
Barcelona contested the decision and consequently the ban has been suspended till January, pending an appeal. It means the club has the forthcoming summer transfer window to strengthen their squad, before being banned from activity in the next two.
Captain Carles Puyol has already announced that he will be departing, as has goalkeeper Victor Valdes. Add to that the fact that Dani Alves, Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Javier Mascherano will all be over 30-years-old come July, and it is clear that investment is needed.
There is talk of a huge squad overhaul at the Catalan club,...
- 5/7/2014
- by Simon Collings
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
Amongst all the end of year awards announced in the last week, FIFPro have selected their team of the year for 2013 and it is: Manuel Neuer; Dani Alves, Thiago Silva, Sergio Ramos, Philipp Lahm; Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Franck Ribery; Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Naturally the reaction in the British press has been to question the lack of Premier League players in the team, but that is just a reflection of the poor performance of English teams in the Champions League compared to previous years.
What is more noteworthy, though, is that the selection reflects an accepted wisdom of previous years with regard to the dominance of La Liga and Spain’s Golden Generation. In a year in which Barcelona were thoroughly outplayed by Bayern Munich across two legs in the Champions League and Spain well beaten in the Confederations Cup Final, should...
Amongst all the end of year awards announced in the last week, FIFPro have selected their team of the year for 2013 and it is: Manuel Neuer; Dani Alves, Thiago Silva, Sergio Ramos, Philipp Lahm; Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Franck Ribery; Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Naturally the reaction in the British press has been to question the lack of Premier League players in the team, but that is just a reflection of the poor performance of English teams in the Champions League compared to previous years.
What is more noteworthy, though, is that the selection reflects an accepted wisdom of previous years with regard to the dominance of La Liga and Spain’s Golden Generation. In a year in which Barcelona were thoroughly outplayed by Bayern Munich across two legs in the Champions League and Spain well beaten in the Confederations Cup Final, should...
- 1/22/2014
- by Jack Gann
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
A year ago at around this period of the year, Celtic fans were looking forward to the knockout round of the Champions League, something that no one thought we could achieve given the group we were in. Celtic managed to achieve two unthinkable results so far in the group, an away win at Moscow ending their long run of losses in group stage European football, and a legendary win at home to Barcelona, and in the end finishing on 10 points – a record high for us in the modern Champions League.
However, things are much different now – we are out of the group after 3 consecutive losses to Ajax, Milan and Barcelona, finishing fourth in a similar group of death to last year’s.
Celtic’s loss of crucial first-team players in the summer, in particular Gary Hooper, has been the main talking point in the media and with Celtic fans.
A year ago at around this period of the year, Celtic fans were looking forward to the knockout round of the Champions League, something that no one thought we could achieve given the group we were in. Celtic managed to achieve two unthinkable results so far in the group, an away win at Moscow ending their long run of losses in group stage European football, and a legendary win at home to Barcelona, and in the end finishing on 10 points – a record high for us in the modern Champions League.
However, things are much different now – we are out of the group after 3 consecutive losses to Ajax, Milan and Barcelona, finishing fourth in a similar group of death to last year’s.
Celtic’s loss of crucial first-team players in the summer, in particular Gary Hooper, has been the main talking point in the media and with Celtic fans.
- 1/5/2014
- by Mark James Cassidy
- Obsessed with Film
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