Between 2008 and 2021, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo dominated the award. Amazingly, they won all but one. This made it nearly impossible for other talented players to break through. Luka Modric is the only player to disrupt this monopoly, winning in 2018. Robert Lewandowski also had a strong case in 2020, but the ceremony was canceled due to COVID-19.

The Ballon d’Or has not been kind to defenders in its history. Since its inception in 1956, only three defenders have won it: Franz Beckenbauer, Matthias Sammer and Fabio Cannavaro. No full-back has ever claimed the award. Alexander-Arnold would make history as the first to do so in men’s and women’s soccer.

The Ballon d’Or dream

In a recent interview with Sky Sports, Alexander-Arnold shared his ambitions: “I want that legacy of being probably the greatest right-back to ever play football. I know there have been many, but I’ve got to reach for the stars.” He also expressed his Ballon d’Or dreams: “I want to be the first full-back to ever do it. Only after you retire can you say, ‘I gave it everything I’ve got.’ Some may call me deluded, but I believe I can.”

The Liverpool defender symbolizes the club’s recent golden era. His blend of defensive skill and playmaking has set him apart since his breakthrough under Jurgen Klopp in 2016. Alexander-Arnold has led a trend of inverting full-backs who operate in midfield. This approach has helped Liverpool overload central creativity and quality in wide positions. He is known for his set-piece delivery and improved one-on-one duels, making him a dual threat on the field.

Challenges ahead

Alexander-Arnold faces barriers that go beyond his talent. In 2019, teammate Virgil van Dijk had a near-flawless season. He helped Liverpool win the UEFA Champions League, yet Messi still claimed his sixth Ballon d’Or.

The preference for attacking players has been entrenched since the 1950s. Goals and flashy play often capture more attention than defensive work. This year’s Ballon d’Or marked the end of Messi and Ronaldo’s era. Messi’s 2022 World Cup win secured him his final award in 2023 before his move to Inter Miami.

Rodri’s victory put a halt on the trend of favoring flamboyant players. However, that in itself came as a shock. Most expected Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr to win the award. For Alexander-Arnold, as gifted as he is, it will take something extraordinary to shift these perceptions and make his mark on the Ballon d’Or legacy.

There are a handful of exciting players who would pose as the defender’s biggest threats to the award in the next 5-8 years. The likes of Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Lamine Yamal and more will have like-minded ambitions.

The next step is crucial for Alexander-Arnold

The next few years are crucial for Alexander-Arnold’s Ballon d’Or pursuit. His contract with Liverpool is nearing its end. Speculation links him to Real Madrid next summer. Reports indicate that Los Blancos are frontrunners if he decides to leave Anfield.

Alexander-Arnold’s career is at a defining point. This is similar to Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard, who considered a move to Chelsea in 2005. Gerrard ultimately chose to stay and give his prime years to Liverpool.

Under new manager Arne Slot, Liverpool shows early promise in a transitional season. After a 2-2 draw with Arsenal, the Reds are just one point behind Manchester City. Alexander-Arnold’s skills fit Slot’s system well. Liverpool has a strong chance of securing multiple trophies in the coming years.

However, a move to Real Madrid could enhance his Ballon d’Or ambitions. The intense media focus in Spain could boost his profile. If he adapts to La Liga as Dani Carvajal’s successor, he may find himself in stronger contention for the award.

On the international stage, England’s hiring of Thomas Tuchel for the 2026 World Cup offers Alexander-Arnold a chance to shine. Under Gareth Southgate, his role was often limited. However, with Tuchel in charge now, Alexander-Arnold can finally showcase his skills in major tournaments.

Winning silverware with both club and country would bolster his profile. This could significantly improve his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or. Should this happen in the next 5-8 years, Trent Alexander-Arnold could become the greatest right-back in soccer history.

PHOTOS: IMAGO

Struggles of Saints

“I’m proud of the journey they [Southampton] are on, but no one cares about any of that if you don’t win,” Russell Martin admitted just a day before his team’s 3-2 loss to Leicester City this past weekend.

He is not wrong. The thrill of Southampton’s playoff victory against Leeds United at Wembley Stadium now feels like a distant memory. What was once celebrated—stylish, possession-based football—has come under intense scrutiny in the top division.

In the Premier League, pragmatism is key, but it has been notably absent in Martin’s approach so far. The philosophy of the Saints boss is built around possession and precise passing. The team showed flexibility last season by adapting their formation to deal with counter-attacks.

However, in the Premier League, Southampton are no longer the dominant force. Martin’s persistence in sticking to his philosophy, despite mounting struggles, is becoming increasingly frustrating for fans.

A bumpy ride for the Tractor Boys

Ipswich Town’s promotion to the Premier League was perhaps an even bigger romantic story. Former Manchester United coach Kieran McKenna led the club to back-to-back promotions, bringing them back to the top flight after a 22-year absence.

The Tractor Boys were the highest-scoring team in the Championship last season, netting 92 goals with a risk-reward style of play. McKenna’s side has thrived on building from the back with a cohesive high-pressing game. Despite being winless so far, Ipswich have shown flashes of promise as they adjust to the higher level of competition. However, their reliance on a high-risk strategy has exposed their defensive vulnerabilities without much adjustment.

Lessons to learn from other success templates

There are many recent examples for Southampton and Ipswich Town where the swallowing of pride and a change in approach is best for business.

For example, two experienced managers in the Premier League, Steve Cooper and Sean Dyche, offer a different picture of survival.

Leicester City, under Cooper, have adopted a pragmatic approach since their promotion. Cooper’s previous experience with relegation battles at Nottingham Forest gives him an edge over rookies like Martin and McKenna. Leicester’s summer reshuffle, with Enzo Maresca departing for Chelsea and Cooper being appointed, has seen the former Premier League champions adapt far quicker to the challenges of the top flight.

Similarly, Sean Dyche’s traditional, no-nonsense tactics helped Everton narrowly avoid relegation last season, despite facing a combined eight-point deduction for financial rule breaches. Dyche’s focus on defensive solidity and straightforward football has proven effective in navigating the tough landscape of Premier League survival—something Southampton and Ipswich may need to embrace if they hope to stay afloat.

Brighton is another core example of where perseverance and patience have allowed both clubs to flourish since their promotion. Brighton’s financial model saw a huge influx of talent departing for profit in consecutive years. Smart re-investment and evolvement in managerial styles have since stabilized the club. From Graham Potter to Roberto De Zerbi to Fabian Hürzeler, the latter is this season’s hottest managerial prospect.

The former St Pauli boss is just 31 years of age, appointed as the youngest manager in Premier League history. He has been able to adjust smoothly to his first job in England as the principles of the club have grown to bypass any particular individual.

Has the brand become more important than the results?

A growing trend in recent years has seen soccer managers prioritize their philosophy of play over achieving immediate results.

Vincent Kompany’s Burnley side were exceptional in the 2022/23 Championship season. However, they struggled to replicate that success in the Premier League. The Clarets were relegated after just one season, finishing 19th. Burnley adamantly stuck to their style of play and ultimately went down with dignity.

Yet, this setback didn’t halt Kompany’s managerial rise. The Manchester City legend was soon appointed as Bayern Munich’s head coach. While relegation might be a blemish on his résumé, it wasn’t enough to deter Bayern from hiring a young manager with significant potential.

Similarly, Kieran McKenna’s connection to his former club Manchester United, could provide him with an exit route if things go awry. With Erik ten Hag’s position under constant scrutiny, McKenna remains a potential candidate for a return to Old Trafford.

What Kompany’s and McKenna’s stories highlight is the modern-day preference for managers who embody a specific identity or brand of football, even at the risk of short-term failure. Clubs are increasingly valuing a manager’s long-term vision over immediate results, banking on future success once the system fully matures.

Will McKenna and Martin adapt or stick to their principles, even if it leads to relegation for Southampton and Ipswich? The Premier League is ruthless. Whilst loyalty to an entertaining style is admirable, it often comes at the cost of survival for smaller teams.

In a league that rewards both entertainment and pragmatism, a refusal to adapt could be their undoing – or the makings of a fantastic English manager.

PHOTOS: IMAGO

England’s interim manager, Lee Carsley, called up Gomes last month, having previously worked with him at the Under-21 level. The 24-year-old earned his third senior cap on Sunday, following his debut against the Republic of Ireland last month.

Gomes played a key role by threading an incisive pass to Manchester City’s Jack Grealish, who finished coolly to break the deadlock for the Three Lions.

Breaking records… again

Time has flown by for Angel Gomes, who is now positioning himself for a major move within Europe this summer. It’s been eight years since the former Manchester United academy graduate replaced Wayne Rooney at Old Trafford.

At the time, it was a symbolic moment. Gomes was just 16 years old, becoming United’s youngest debutant since Duncan Edwards in 1953. His potential was undeniable, but his journey since then hasn’t been straightforward.

Fast forward to 2024, and Gomes is back in the spotlight, breaking records once again. Last month, he became the first player to start for England whilst playing for a French team since Trevor Steven did so in 1992. While Steven’s international career faded soon after, Gomes’ breakthrough on the international scene signals an opposite trajectory.

The one that got away from Old Trafford

Gomes’ soccer journey has been anything but typical for an English talent. He came through Manchester United’s youth ranks as an attacking midfielder. Despite excelling at the Premier League 2 level, he couldn’t secure a regular spot in the senior team after debuting.

With time ticking on his contract, the arrival of Bruno Fernandes in January 2020 further limited his chances of regular football in coming years. Gomes made the bold decision to leave his boyhood club, even after being offered a lucrative deal to stay.

It was French side Lille that allowed him to rebuild his career. Moving to Ligue 1 allowed Gomes to develop away from the intense spotlight of English soccer. He first showed signs of promise during a loan spell at Boavista, before returning to Lille and slowly integrating into the first team.

The 2022-23 season marked a turning point in Gomes’ career. Under new coach Paulo Fonseca, Gomes transitioned into a deeper midfield role, closer to the defense—a position that was unfamiliar to him. Fonseca tapped into Gomes’ attacking instincts but utilized them deeper on the field, allowing him to break lines and showcase his versatility.

Angel Gomes is a unique player for the England midfield

Despite his smaller frame, Gomes has thrived in this defensive midfield role. Playing in the physically demanding Ligue 1 helped him grow into the position. His form at Lille has translated to the England setup. It has come at a key transitional moment after Gareth Southgate’s resignation as England manager in July.

Gomes’ call-up to the national team was influenced by Jude Bellingham’s injury in September and Carsley’s preference for familiar players like Gomes and Morgan Gibbs-White. With momentum on his side, Gomes has a chance to solidify himself as a regular starter for England.

The second midfield spot next to Declan Rice in a 4-2-3-1 system is up for grabs. It’s a crowded field, with young talents like Kobbie Mainoo, Adam Wharton, and Gomes all capable of filling the role. But with Mainoo and Wharton not starting the season brightly, this offers Gomes the chance to make the position his own.

Gomes isn’t the typical second midfielder, and that’s exactly why he could be so valuable to England. His ability to combine defensive work with creative passing makes him a unique option that no other player in the squad can provide.

The next two years will be a big test for Gomes. The big questions remain whether he stays in favor after Carsley’s tenure and whether he remains at Lille or moves on in the summer.

If everything falls into place, Angel Gomes could become a key figure for England at the 2026 World Cup in North America.

PHOTOS: IMAGO.

“The KNVB was shocked yesterday morning by the news that Johan Neeskens has suddenly passed away at the age of 73,” The Dutch soccer association said. “During the last couple of days, he was in Algeria, working for the KNVB’s World Coaches program, where he became unwell. Unfortunately, medical help could not make a difference for him.”

Total Football’s first orchestrator

The former Dutch midfielder was scouted by Dutch soccer pioneer Rinus Michels whilst playing at hometown club Racing Club Heemstede. This earned Neeskens a move to Ajax, where he would thrive in the ‘Total Football’ system that Michels institutionalized.

Neeskens was later managed by Stefan Kovacs, who continued Ajax’s success after Michels left for Barcelona in 1971.

His time at Ajax marked a golden era for the club. They won three consecutive European Cups from 1970 to 1973, along with back-to-back Eredivisie titles and five other trophies.

This success carried over to the Netherlands national team. In 1970, the team had not qualified for a World Cup in 32 years. That changed when Neeskens helped Oranje qualify for the 1974 World Cup, showcasing Total Football on the world stage. Despite not winning the World Cup, the team finished runners-up in 1974 and 1978.

Both the iconic Ajax and Netherlands sides are revered for Johan Cruyff’s excellence. However, Johan Neeskens was the orchestrator behind the Golden Squad. Primarily a box-to-box midfielder, Neeskens is one of the prototypes for a role in soccer that features prominently today to describe tenacious, tireless midfielders.

Both Cruyff and Neeskens eventually followed Michels to Barcelona, where he spent five seasons with the Catalan club. During his time in Spain, Neeskens won the Copa del Rey and European Cup Winners’ Cup alongside his Dutch counterpart.

A move to America… and back

Neeskens moved to the United States to join New York Cosmos in 1979. He helped the Cosmos to win the North American Soccer League championships in 1980 and 1982. After a brief spell at Groningen, Neeskens returned to the US with South Florida Sun. However, the United Soccer League collapsed just six games into the season as a failed expansion to capitalize on the soccer fever generated by Pele.

In 1985, Neeskens joined the Kansas City Comets, who played in the Major Indoor Soccer League. It was an expansion into a fast-paced version of soccer much different from his professional playing times at Ajax and Barcelona.

Neeskens helped raise the sport’s visibility, paving the way for soccer to survive in the 1980s before the creation of Major League Soccer.

After retiring in 1991, Neeskens coached several teams, most notably as assistant coach for the Netherlands. He worked with Guus Hiddink at the 1998 World Cup and later with Frank Rijkaard. He reunited with Rijkaard at Barcelona, staying until 2008.

Tributes from the soccer world have poured in. Johan Neeskens not only helped shape modern soccer. He left a lasting legacy in Dutch and European football that will exist for generations.

PHOTOS: IMAGO.

The Juventus midfielder described the situation as a “nightmare” that is finally “over”. He will be allowed to return to club training in the New Year. Pogba will be eligible to play competitive matches starting in March 2025 as the ban is backdated to 11 September 2023.

CAS releases statement on Pogba appeal

On Monday, the CAS released a detailed statement regarding its decision:

“The CAS Panel based its decision on the evidence and legal arguments made that Mr. Pogba’s ingestion of DHEA, the substance for which he tested positive, was not intentional and was the result of erroneously taking a supplement prescribed by a medical doctor in Florida.”

Pogba was suspended by Italy’s national doping tribunal (NADO) in February 2023 after a positive test for a testosterone-boosting substance banned by WADA. Pogba argued that he had unknowingly ingested the substance at the recommendation of his doctor. The CAS acknowledged this but noted that Pogba should have exercised greater caution.

“Mr. Pogba’s case was supported by several experts. Much of the evidence provided by Mr. Pogba was unopposed [by NADO]. The CAS Panel determined, however, that Mr. Pogba was not without fault and that, as a professional football player, he should have paid greater care in the circumstances.”

The Juventus dilemma

Since February 2023, Paul Pogba has been earning Italy’s statutory wage of around €2,000 a month. Soon, his salary will revert to his annual salary of €10m a year. This creates a financial dilemma for Juventus, as he won’t be eligible to play until March 2025 despite being one of the club’s highest earners. The sharp increase in wages hurts Juventus given it invested heavily in the midfield.

Juventus brought in Douglas Luiz, Khephren Thuram, and Teun Koopmeiners during the summer. This was in addition to Manuel Locatelli, Weston McKennie, and Nicolo Fagioli, who have been impressive so far this season. With limited space for Pogba’s reintegration into the starting line-up, there are growing reports that the club may part ways with the French international in January.

Can Ligue 1 provide Paul Pogba a path to playing time

If Pogba can rediscover his form, a return to France’s national team could be on the cards. Manager Didier Deschamps is a long-time admirer of Pogba. His creativity was notably missing from France’s run at Euro 2024. Even Kylian Mbappé expressed that he and France missed playing alongside Pogba. However, at club level, Pogba’s path to success is unclear.

Given Pogba’s fondness for visiting the U.S. and Saudi Arabia in the off-season, both the MLS and Saudi Pro League have emerged as potential destinations for the former Manchester United star. However, a return to his roots in France might also provide an opportunity for Pogba to reignite his career.

Ligue 1 has had an exciting start to the season after being close to a TV blackout earlier in the summer. The French football authority struggled to sell domestic broadcasting rights before BeIN Sports and DAZN stepped in with a last-minute deal.

Paris Saint-Germain has been adjusting to life without Kylian Mbappé for the first time in seven years. AS Monaco, Olympique Marseille, and Stade de Reims have emerged as contenders in the title race. Under new manager Roberto De Zerbi, Marseille strengthened its ambitions with signings like Mason Greenwood and Pierre-Emile Højbjerg.

Marseille could be a potentially realistic destination for Pogba in Ligue 1.

Pogba was born in Lagny-sur-Marne, which is in the eastern suburbs of Paris. The rivalry between Paris and Marseille is among the most contentious in France. Despite never playing for PSG, he spent his youth career close to Paris for Torcy and Le Havre. Then Manchester United scouted the Frenchman.

A move to Marseille could offer Pogba a final opportunity to return to elite football. In doing so, he would secure one last major contract whilst representing France.

PHOTOS: IMAGO.

The departure of club legend Marco Reus, after 12 memorable years, was the headline move. It left a gaping hole in the hearts of Borussia Dortmund fans and marked the end of an era. The exits of young talents like Youssoufa Moukoko and Tom Rothe shocked the fanbase. These players were seen as the future of the club. Their sales highlighted a change from Dortmund’s usual approach of nurturing young stars.

The arrivals suggested a blend of old and new philosophies. While signings like Maximilian Beier and Yan Couto fit Dortmund’s tradition of developing young talent, their bigger moves were different. The acquisitions of 27-year-old Waldemar Anton, 28-year-old Serhou Guirassy, and 33-year-old Pascal Groß showed a focus on short-term success rather than long-term growth.

A major factor in this shift was Nuri Şahin’s appointment as head coach after Edin Terzić’s dismissal. Despite reaching the UEFA Champions League final last season, Terzić’s time in charge was marred by underwhelming performances, especially in winnable games. Borussia Dortmund often struggled in the Bundesliga but thrived in Europe. It was a classic Jekyll and Hyde scenario—two contrasting identities depending on the competition.

The dual identity dilemma

In The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Dr. Jekyll believes he can control his darker side, but the internal conflict eventually overwhelms him, leading to his downfall. Jekyll admits, “The moment I choose, I can be rid of Mr. Hyde… I was slowly losing hold of my original and better self and becoming slowly incorporated with my second and worse.” This mirrors Dortmund’s struggle: they shine in the Champions League, but their domestic form exposes a dual identity that is unsustainable.

While they’ve performed brilliantly in Europe so far, with a 3-0 win over Club Brugge and a 7-1 victory against Celtic, their domestic shortcomings could soon impact their Champions League campaign. A tougher test awaits as they travel to the Santiago Bernabéu to face Real Madrid, the team that ended their European dreams last season.

Despite the change in management, Şahin isn’t new to the setup. He was Terzić’s assistant last season, and his appointment feels like a fallback option after Terzić came under pressure. The real challenge for Şahin is whether he can solve Dortmund’s Jekyll and Hyde dilemma and bring consistency across both competitions.

The Şahin factor

Şahin’s style is more exciting and attack-minded compared to his predecessors. While it’s still early, there’s room for optimism, but the team’s defensive vulnerabilities are already evident. In the 2023/24 season, Dortmund’s defense was solid, with January signing Ian Maatsen, Gregor Kobel’s goalkeeping heroics, and Mats Hummels’ reliable performances. This season, though, the defense has struggled. Waldemar Anton has yet to find form alongside Nico Schlotterbeck, and it has made the latter look less effective. The midfield is often overrun, showing signs of fatigue. Dortmund’s new attackers haven’t found their rhythm yet.

Much like under Terzić, Dortmund’s main struggles have come against high-pressing teams. Losses to VfB Stuttgart and Union Berlin in the Bundesliga reveal familiar issues—poor decision-making under pressure, a porous defense, and a lack of fluidity in transition. Once again, the Jekyll and Hyde dynamic is on display. Dortmund shows brilliance in Europe but falters domestically. For German football followers, these inconsistencies paint a tale of two teams, while casual viewers might only see their occasional brilliance.

This disparity between their European and domestic performances is unsustainable. In the Champions League group stage, only Real Madrid and Barcelona pose serious threats to Dortmund’s current setup. As the competition progresses, their defensive issues and midfield instability could be brutally exposed.

The new Champions League format gives Şahin’s side time to gel. If they finish in the top eight, they won’t have to play in the Round of 16 until March 2025. This could buy them time to fix their Bundesliga problems before the pressure intensifies in Europe.

PHOTOS: IMAGO

Captain Bruno Fernandes picked up a red card in the first half, but it made little difference to the result. The Red Devils were poor with 11 men just as they were with a numerical disadvantage.

Gone are the days of “lads, it’s Spurs,” the saying made famous by Sir Alex Ferguson. Now, it’s United themselves that teams expect to beat at Old Trafford. For over a decade, home defeats have become a sad pattern for the club. Despite the modest score-line, a more in-form side than Spurs could have inflicted a much heavier goal tally. This loss fits the same trend as previous embarrassments under Ten Hag, like Liverpool (7-0), Brentford (4-0), and Manchester City (6-3 and 3-0).

Another underwhelming start to the season

United’s only wins this season have come against Fulham, Southampton and Barnsley. It is early doors but United sit just 4 points away from the relegation zone. As October approaches, it’s hard to see where more points will come from.

Sunday’s defeat felt eerily similar to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s 4-1 loss to Watford in 2021, which ultimately led to his dismissal. The deflated crowd at Old Trafford is no longer surprised by such performances.

The start of this season came with a reason for optimism. The new board of management, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, had precariously decided to keep Ten Hag on as manager. In hindsight, it feels like an impulsive decision based on United’s surprise FA Cup final victory against Manchester City.

There was a whiff of caution about this decision over the summer. The club only triggered a one-year extension in the Dutchman’s contract. The deal keeps him at the club until 2026.

Despite concerns over Financial Fair Play, Ten Hag was allowed to spend big this summer, bringing in five new players. Yet, the team looks more directionless than ever. Meanwhile, in stark contrast, Arne Slot’s Liverpool side already has a clear identity after just four months in charge. Ten Hag is now two years into his reign, with little to show.

Over the next few weeks, the former Ajax manager will have to survive a scare-fest of fixtures as he hopes to keep his job past Halloween. The chances of this look slim, given he has no room for excuses left. Last season, he was able to blame the uncertainty of club ownership and the plague of injuries.

A grim October awaits Erik ten Hag and Manchester United

Before the Spurs defeat, United were held to a midweek 1-1 draw against FC Twente in the Europa League.

The forecast continues to look bleak. Their next fixture is a trip to Portugal against FC Porto on Thursday. The Dragons lost their opening Europa League game against Bodo Glimt but followed it up with a 4-0 thrashing against Arouca. Despite not being as successful in recent years, Vitor Bruno’s side will cause problems, particularly in wide areas, stretching the game against United’s high line.

Three days later, United travel to Villa Park to face Unai Emery’s in-form side. With a plethora of attacking options, Villa will likely head into the team as the favorite to win. The United defense struggled against Brennan Johnson at the weekend. Similarly, the pace of Ollie Watkins and the vision of the exciting Morgan Rogers behind the defensive line could penetrate the flailing wall with ease.

Depending on the results of these two fixtures, United and Erik ten Hag could enter the October international break in crisis mode. Two more defeats could force CEO Omar Berrada to make the difficult phone call to part ways with Ten Hag.

If the Dutchman survives the break, United return to welcome Brentford to Old Trafford. The Bees have been hit-and-miss so far this season. However, Bryan Mbuemo is in fine form and could cause problems for United’s fragile backline. Another defeat could be one of the final nails in Ten Hag’s coffin.

Following that, a reunion with former United manager José Mourinho—now at Fenerbahçe—awaits. Mourinho was sacked by United in 2018, and he knows all too well the relentless pressure of managing at Old Trafford. His presence would be an ironic reminder of just how quickly things can turn sour.

Time is running out for Ten Hag

Erik ten Hag has run out of excuses, and time is not on his side. With a string of tough fixtures ahead, it seems only a matter of time before United’s board makes a decision.

United arguably played their most ‘complete’ version of soccer in the first half against Crystal Palace in September. However, the team failed to sustain the Ten Hag model of play for long before the Eagles plastered the defense with squandered opportunities to win the game.

That is the biggest indication of a roster of players who have been unable to believe in Ten Hag’s playing style over the last two years. Just as the cycle fell with the last three managers, the dressing room is close to being lost and history has shown it to be the catalyst for the manager’s sacking.

Can Ten Hag find a miraculous way to save his job, or will October mark the end of his tenure at Old Trafford? This season, there is a very eager Ruud Van Nistelrooy waiting in the dugout to possibly take charge of his former club.

PHOTOS: IMAGO

The former Italian soccer player’s family provided a positive brief statement on the Italian’s current condition.

“Given the countless calls from the media and the nasty rumors circulating, we clarify that our beloved Totò is in stable condition and is continuously checked by an expert team of doctors night and day. Come on, Totò.”

Schillaci’s rise to World Cup glory

Italia 90 featured the tears of Paul Gascoigne against West Germany. Italians remember the tournament for Schillaci’s rise from relative obscurity to national heroism. To this day, it remains one of the romantic narratives of the 1990 World Cup.

The striker was part of a 22-man World Cup squad which featured a top-heavy attack. Roberto Baggio, Gianluca Vialli, Roberto Mancini, Andrea Carnevale and Aldo Serena were all ahead of Schillaci in the international pecking order. Furthermore, soccer regulations in the 1990s only allowed five substitutes.

In Serie A, Schillaci’s Juventus side was flailing behind the likes of Napoli, Milan and Internazionale. The Old Lady had finished fourth in the league. However, only Marco Van Basten (19), Roberto Baggio (17) and Diego Maradona (16) had scored more goals than Schillaci in the 1989/90 season. At 25 years old, Schillaci was thriving at the club level. He had yet to make a significant impact on the international stage.

The Italian forward had only played once for the national team before Italia 90. This was in a 1-0 friendly win against Switzerland. He had impressed Italy manager Azeglio Vicini in the lead-up to the tournament.

In the opening World Cup game against Austria, Toto’s ascent to heroism began. Vicini opted to bring on Schillaci for Carnevale, overlooking Roberto Baggio in the process. His header won the opening game for the Azzurri. It had set a confident tone for Italy in their forthcoming fixtures, with Schillaci scoring against Czechoslovakia, Uruguay and the Republic of Ireland.

Salvatore Schillaci was the hero of Italia 90

By the time Italy faced Argentina in the semi-final, they had not conceded a single goal in the tournament. Claudio Caniggia’s header canceled out Totò’s early goal against the defending champions. The match would go the distance to a penalty shootout.

Italy and Schillaci’s fairy-tale ride ended on that disappointing night. He later admitted that he did not take part in the penalty shootout due to muscular discomfort. Speaking to FourFourTwo in 2014, Schillaci said:

“I had a muscular injury to my leg and was tired, so I thought I’d leave it to someone in better condition than me, someone better at taking penalties. I’m not a great penalty taker.”

For Totò, the burden of being a national hero in the summer of 1990 would prove too much in consequent years. He would only represent Italy 16 times in his career, only playing a further 8 times after that World Cup. Even at the domestic level, he failed to reach double digits in his goal tally for the next two seasons in Italy.

A move to Inter Milan followed. However, he failed to meet the level of expectations there between 1992 and 1994. As a result, the forward moved to Japanese side Jubilo Iwata. In doing so, he was the first Italian soccer player to move to Japan.

Schillaci retired in 1999, returning to his native Palermo.

Those four weeks in 1990 defined a career for Salvadore Schillaci. Those expectations that Italian fans pinned a nation’s hopes on for those few weeks proved too much to handle, but the beloved legacy that he left behind is timeless.

PHOTOS: IMAGO

The 39-year-old launched an account on YouTube two-thirds of the way through August. The Portuguese broke world records online by becoming the fastest-growing YouTube channel of all time. According to WikiTubia, the Al Nassr star was the fastest person to reach 100,000, 1 million, 10 million and 50 million subscribers on the social media platform.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of Portugal’s Nation League games against Croatia and Scotland, Ronaldo was asked about his retirement plans:

“When the time comes, I’ll move on,” Ronaldo stated. “It won’t be a difficult decision to make. If I feel like I’m no longer contributing anything, I’ll be the first to leave.”

At 39, Ronaldo’s days in a Portugal jersey are limited. Euro 2024 was his penultimate major international tournament before he aims to play in the 2026 World Cup for the final time.

The twilight days of his career are here. However, his competitive spirit and drive, which have made him one of the greatest soccer players of all time, have now positioned him for success online. In just three weeks, the former Manchester United star surpassed 56 million YouTube subscribers.

Ronaldo continues to track down MrBeast at remarkable pace

Ronaldo’s next objective is to overtake MrBeast’s subscriber count. MrBeast, the popular American YouTuber whose real name is James Donaldson, currently boasts 313 million subscribers. Ronaldo has made it clear that he not only wants to reach that milestone but to surpass it:

“MrBeast on YouTube? In two years, let’s try to beat him,” Cristiano said.

For comparison, Ronaldo’s arch-rival Lionel Messi currently has just 3.3 million subscribers. Ronaldo tripled that number on his first day on YouTube, highlighting the effectiveness of his long-term PR and marketing strategy. Ronaldo’s content appeals primarily to a younger audience, particularly those who have followed his rise to superstardom over the last two decades. As of July 2024, 21.1% of YouTube users were made up of males between the age of 18-34.

This summer, millions watched Ronaldo’s emotional reaction after missing a penalty for Portugal in the Round of 16 against Slovenia. Some saw it as a moment of vulnerability. Others saw the realization of a legend coming to terms with the passage of time. This raised questions about whether the same relentless drive that made him an all-time great could become a challenge after retirement.

If Ronaldo decides against a coaching career, he has already positioned himself for success in other fields. His ventures in hospitality, clothing and fragrances are well-known. Now, with his foray into technology and social media, he is entering a booming industry where he has the potential to excel.

At the current projection rate, Cristiano Ronaldo may well topple MrBeast as YouTube’s Given his current growth trajectory, Ronaldo could very well surpass MrBeast as YouTube’s most popular user before stepping onto the field for his swansong at the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

PHOTOS: IMAGO.

Despite the lull of depression echoing as the season is underway in Scotland, the after-effects of another major tournament failure lingers. For many, it stings a little more with the knowledge that the current national team has a talented pool of players.

Italy is an unlikely nation to capitalize on Scottish talent in recent years. There is a small but rich history of Scottish soccer players who have graced the Italian turf. Denis Law for Torino, Graeme Souness for Sampdoria, and Joe Jordan for AC Milan and Hellas Verona make up the few who have.

Serie A and Scotland: Influx of Scottish players is growing

In 2018, Liam Henderson became the first Scot to play in Serie A for almost 30 years. Another Scot is Josh Doig, who currently plies his trade in Serie B with Sassuolo.

Last season, Bologna’s breakout season was earmarked by the impressive Lewis Ferguson who was instrumental in the team securing Champions League football for the first time since 1964. Before Christmas, the Scottish midfielder had surpassed Denis Law’s record of becoming the highest-scoring Scot in Serie A history.

Last weekend, Torino’s Che Adams was the hero of the hour as he opened his scoring account against Europa League winners Atalanta. The Scotland striker joined the Turin club this summer as a free agent.

Most notably, Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay has finalized a move to Serie A side Napoli for a fee of around $33million. This would make him the most expensive Scottish player of all time, surpassing Kieran Tierney’s record move from Celtic to Arsenal. Brighton’s highly talented Billy Gilmour is also expected to follow him to Naples although the injury to Matt O’Riley may scupper plans.

The Scottish boom is well and truly underway. It marks a significant turn of ventures for players who are committed to getting out of their comfort zones. The short-term sight of this is the betterment of player development. However, this can consequently result in a Scottish national team full of players who are seasoned outside of the British shores.

Time to follow the footsteps of the English?

The Premier League has become an over-saturated league in many senses, and British players have felt the effect of that. The likes of Jude Bellingham, Fikayo Tomori, and Jadon Sancho were made outside of England and ultimately thrived through their experiences abroad. For others like Tammy Abraham, Chris Smalling and Ashley Young, experiences in Italy were a chance to reinvigorate their careers.

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For far too long, it has felt like many Scottish players have lived in a bubble of the Scottish Premiership and ultimately the reputation of Scottish football has paid the price for this. As a result, the faces of Scotland – Celtic and Rangers – have failed at the first hurdle in Champions League qualifiers and Europa League competitions far too often.

The recent influx of Scottish players in Serie A will benefit the national team in the grander scheme. As a continuation of last season’s flag-bearer in Lewis Ferguson, it will be important for a name as massive as Scott McTominay to thrive just as well and further boost the Scottish boom in Italian football.

Photo: IMAGO / PA Images

In the case of Joao Cancelo and his time at Manchester City, it is a mixed bag of emotions. The Premier League ultimately says goodbye to a Portuguese international who ended up being one of the best to do it in England over the last decade Cancelo departs for Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal for a fee of $28 million, five years on from his arrival at City. He joined Pep Guardiola’s side for $79 million from Serie A side Juventus.

At the time of the Portuguese fullback’s arrival in Manchester, Benjamin Mendy was the starting left-back. Cancelo offered something different. His attacking output fit manager Pep Guardiola’s preferred formation and tactics. In his debut season, Cancelo was used sparingly in the Premier League. Cancelo needed time to adjust to the English game. However, he would start six of City’s nine Champions League games before their eventual elimination at the hands of Olympique Lyonnais in the quarterfinals.

Joao Cancelo brought something new to Manchester City

The following season saw his playing time drastically increase. Coincidentally, so did City’s successes. Not only would the Portuguese defender prove to be instrumental in City’s title win and run to the Champions League final. Cancelo redefined the fullback role in a Guardiola team.

No more veteran or makeshift fullbacks. Guardiola had his man, and he had a fine blend of attacking flair, discipline and width that this City side was craving. All of a sudden, any criticism of spending almost $80 million on a fullback was silenced. Most impressive of all, Cancelo was the best left-back in the Premier League. At the time, he was not even playing in his favored side, which was occupied by Kyle Walker.

Over the next few years, Cancelo would win three consecutive Premier League titles. The FA Cup in 2022/23 and EFL Cup in 2020/2021 rounded off the other accolades in sky-blue colors.

Dissolution of an otherwise perfect fit

The fireworks publicly went off in January 2023. There was a sudden announcement that Manchester City was loaning Joao Cancelo out to Bayern Munich for the rest of the season. It came as much of a shock for a player who was still featuring for the club. Reports at the time suggested Cancelo had concerns over playing time. Rico Lewis was breaking through into consistent first-team minutes, and Nathan Ake was developing as a starter.

When pressed on the matter, Guardiola indicated that this was the case.

“Everyone has their own personality. [Cancelo] loves to play, he trains the best but he needs to play to be happy, so we decided together to let him go to Munich. He wants to play every game so hopefully that can happen in Munich.”

However, an interview with A Bola in March 2024 by the defender refuted that.

“Lies were told. I’ve never been a bad teammate for them, and you can ask either Ake or Rico. I don’t have any superiority or inferiority complex towards them, but that’s the manager’s opinion.”

The relationship with Manchester City had truly broken down in that time. Often enough in manager-player disputes, the words of the manager take better in the court of public opinion. By going publicly with this himself, Cancelo had dug himself into a deeper hole and ultimately closed the chapter on his City career.

Sour end to his time at Manchester City

That would be delayed by a year as he was loaned out to Barcelona for the 2022/23 season. City preferred to sell him this summer, but Barcelona was hesitant to buy the defender. The Spanish side wanted to take Cancelo on loan again. An otherwise high fee for a permanent transfer was not possible due to Barcelona’s financial constraints.

Despite Guardiola’s openness this summer to possibly welcome Cancelo back into the fold, it was never really a viable option. There is no fit for him in the 3-4-2-1 setup that City has used so far this season. Josko Gvardiol and Rico Lewis would fit in a more traditional setup as well.

At the age of 30, Cancelo’s open defensive frailties as a result of his attacking output have come back to haunt him. He is still good enough for most European teams, but those outside of the big clubs are unable to afford his salary. Therefore, the Saudi league is the default next step for a household name. There, he can still be in contention for the Portugal national team for another few years.

As far as the Premier League is concerned, Cancelo leaves behind a modern imprint in English football that is far away from the traditionalist version of a full-back. He may not have been the first, but he is one of the first great ones who showed how attacking-minded managers in the next few years can model a successful system with an attacking defender.

PHOTOS: IMAGO

There were plenty of talking points from the season’s first round of Saturday fixtures. Liverpool featured in the early kick-off while Arsenal, Newcastle, and Aston Villa spearheaded our first roundup of the season.

Ipswich Town 0-2 Liverpool

Mo Salah’s brilliance in the early Saturday kick-off earned Liverpool and new manager Arne Slot their first win in the post-Klopp era. The Egyptian has recorded nine goals in the first game week, more than any other player has scored.

However, it was a lackluster first half for Slot’s side against the newly-promoted side. Kieran McKenna’s side had a good first half at Portman Road, Ipswich’s personal fortress for much of last season. Liam Delap, who joined from Manchester City in the summer, posed as a nuisance through the middle of the pitch.

As a result, Slot took off Jarrell Quansah at the halfway mark for Ibrahima Konaté. The Liverpool manager pinpointed the young center-back’s aerial duel losses after the match but coincidentally was also the turning point of Liverpool’s fortunes.

A delicious inside through ball by Trent Alexander-Arnold to Mo Salah broke the Ipswich defense at the hour mark. Diogo Jota coolly finished to break the deadlock.

A tease of ’Slot Ball’ soon followed as a one-two with Dominik Szoboszlai led to Salah’s record-breaking goal and took the game out of the newly promoted side’s sight.

Premier League highlight: Arsenal 2-0 Wolves

The Gunners were the package feature of the show in the collective round of matches. Mikel Arteta’s side eased to a comfortable victory as they took a 1-0 lead before half-time. Kai Havertz’s head met the pinpoint cross of Bukayo Saka. Havertz, who opened the season’s account for the North London outfit.

Wolves came out in the second half with an intent to control as much as 65% possession of the ball but ultimately failed to create any meaningful chances for themselves all afternoon. New striker Jorgen Strand Larsen had a first-half header saved by David Raya.

It was not long before Havertz and Saka linked up again. This time it was the Englishman on the scoresheet. Havertz laid a scenery for Saka to cut into the box and score a wonderfully curled shot into the right corner.

The win ensured three points for last season’s Premier League runners-up before they travel to face Aston Villa next Saturday.

Everton 0-3 Brighton & Hove Albion

It was a sticky start to the Toffees season at home as they fell to a blistering 3-0 defeat to Brighton’s new manager Fabian Hurzeler.

The former St Pauli boss is the Premier League’s youngest manager in history, and all first impressions pointed towards a revitalization following last season’s late slump.

Brighton scored the opener in the 25th minute through. Kaoru Mitoma. A quick counter attack and some fine work by new signing Yankuba Minteh helped the Japanese score his first goal in 11 months.

In the second half, Everton will have felt hard done by an overturned VAR decision that denied them a penalty after Lewis Dunk’s foul on Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Further punishment followed as the Toffees were caught on the counterattack after Idrisa Gueye’s mistake allowed Danny Welbeck to stretch the Seagull’s lead.

It went from bad to worse as Ashley Young got a red card in the 66th minute after mishandling a ball that led to Mitoma running through on goal. Simon Adingra, another starlet who had not scored for months, slotted in a third for the Seagulls in a convincing win.

Newcastle United 1-0 Southampton

Joelinton’s goal before half-time was enough to secure a narrow home win for Eddie Howe’s side.

The game was an ill-tempered one; the two sides combined for 31 fouls throughout the match.. Fabian Schar was sent off for a mildly looking headbutt on Ben Brereton Diaz in the 28th minute. The Magpies held on for the majority of this game for a victory against the newly promoted Saints.

Nottingham Forest 1-1 AFC Bournemouth

In a game marred by a lengthy stoppage and an injury for Forest midfield Danilo, Forest and Bournemouth shared the spoils at City Ground.

The Brazilian clashed with Antoine Semenyo in the first half, which led to 12 minutes of stoppage time. Forest manager Nuno Espirito confirmed the worst after the game that Danilo suffered a broken ankle.

His replacement Ryan Yates’s shot needed an impressive save from Neto. But, Neto couldn’t get a firm grasp on the ball. The deflection landed in the path of Chris Wood, who opened the scoring.

Bournemouth was missing their new record signing Evanilson, but it was Semenyo who stepped up and capitalized on Forest defender Harry Toffolo’s misconstrued clearance to gift The Cherries a late 86th-minute equalizer.

West Ham United 1-2 Aston Villa

Wantaway striker Jhon Duran was the unlikely hero for Aston Villa in a thrilling encounter that rounded off Saturday’s Premier League fixtures.

Everton broke the deadlock just 3 minutes into the game. An inswinging corner by Youri Tielemans met the firing head of new signing Amadou Onana. It could have been more as the home team struggled to get to grips with the pace of the game.

However, the Hammers got a controversial penalty after Matty Cash fouled Tomas Soucek. The Polish defender got tangled up and wrapped his leg around Soucek despite getting a touch on the ball. VAR also supported the referee’s decision.

Lucas Paqueta equalised but West Ham left dramatics for the second half. Jhon Duran, who was publicly hopeful of a transfer to West Ham just a few weeks ago, combined as part of the super-sub trio with Ian Maatsen and Jacob Ramsey to pass through the West Ham defense and beat goalkeeper Areola for all three points.

PHOTOS: IMAGO

But how did an energy drinks company become associated with such a traditionally decorated English club?

From energy drink to sports magnate

Red Bull has been a juggernaut in the energy drink market for years. In 2023, Red Bull sold more than 12 billion cans worldwide. Yet, it is their expansion into ventures outside of beverages that have made it into a mammoth brand. Founder Dietrich Mateschitz expanded his vision for Red Bull outside of his homeland Austria. Consequently, the trajectory of the brand has only been upwards. The company’s vision in the 1990s started with more unorthodox and extreme sports. For example, Red Bull focused on skateboarding, BMX and skiing. Still, it was not a major player in mainstream sports.

Fast forward to 2005, and the first imprint in mainstream sport that Red Bull had was in motorsports. The birth of Red Bull Racing was a significant step in their sporting venture as Red Bull tasted success for the first time in 2010 with Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber. In that same year, Red Bull started their empire in the football world by purchasing Austria Salzburg. It almost feels odd to call them that. Such is the power of synergy and marketing that Red Bull Salzburg almost feels more natural.

Red Bull enters soccer world in the USA

In 2006, MetroStars was purchased and rebranded to New York Red Bulls during one of the soccer booms in the United States. David Beckham’s move to the Los Angeles Galaxy one year later helped put the New York Red Bulls into a greater spotlight. The most famous footballer to don the shirt a few years later was Thierry Henry. He highlighted the success of the re-brand.

To create the Holy Red Bull Trinity of clubs in 2009 was a fifth-tier club called SSV Makranstadt, more commonly known today as RB Leipzig. German fans have always taken a stricter stance when it comes to the commercialization of the league and/or its clubs. Take the 50+1 rule which exists to serve the voice of the fans at the highest level of club ownership. The Saxony club may have swerved the regulations by calling themselves Rassenballsport Leipzig, but German fans have made no exceptions for their united distaste for the club – which still exists today.

Red Bull Bragantino is the company’s other club in the network in Brazil, whilst their most recent acquisition in July has seen the energy manufacturers buy Japanese third-tier side Omiya Ardija.

Strategy for Leeds United under the Red Bull umbrella

Some of the strategic reasons for Red Bull venturing into the English game are quite identifiable by the measure of success that Salzburg and Leipzig have recorded. After all, both have featured in European competitions consistently for several years now. Their philosophy of identifying, nurturing and profitably selling hot prospects has been a core element of their success. That is a philosophy that Leeds United have adopted, particularly in recent years – which makes the minority acquisition make sense.

After Leeds failed to secure promotion at the end of the 2023-24 season, it was an inevitable reality that many of the superstars signed for the Premier League era would be departing. The likes of Archie Gray, Crysencio Summerville and Luis Sinisterra have left the club permanently, with Wilfried Gnonto and Georginio Rutter also expected to leave for the Premier League. The most cliché term would be to call it a rebuild, but in these circumstances… it feels more like a rebrand.

The final percentage of ownership is ambiguous, with fans being told that it is not the highest nor the lowest level amongst stakeholders at the club.

Red Bull grabbed the horns of The Whites early on without heavily (nor publicly) implying that change is coming. Leeds chairman Paraag Marathe spoke to The Athletic in May to explicitly mention that:

“This club is and will forever be Leeds United Football Club. It’s not going to be the Leeds Red Bulls. To be fair, they [Red Bull] understand that. They appreciate that, they respect that. They know the legacy of this club, so it’s not something they wanted either.”

… for now.

A multi-club model

We have not seen a partnership that hasn’t had the marketing of Red Bull smothered all over it. Bragantino, Leipzig, Salzburg and New York, as previously mentioned, are all within the remits of a multi-club network in which Leeds United is embroiled. One theory of their approach could be tactical patience. Whether that be a reignition of the Super League one day or a normalization of multi-club networks = as we have seen with Manchester City and United lately – could become a common theme in years to come. By getting their hands slightly dirty in a prestigious club such as Leeds, which has already seen former Salzburg and Leipzig manager Jesse Marsch manage the club, there will be a greater motive on the horizon than the acute “this is a minority and minority-only partnership” statement by Marathe.

A front-of-shirt sponsorship is about as obvious as it comes, but the beginning of the expansion into England has already been seen with several players attending the British Grand Prix in Silverstone earlier this summer for a publicity stunt with current Red Bull world champion Max Verstappen.

Regulations

The Labour Party recently won the general election in the United Kingdom. It reintroduced the new Football Governance Bill. This grants powers to an independent regulatory body that will oversee English football’s top five divisions. Much of that was in response to occurrences such as the failed European Super League breakout in 2021. Meanwhile, it also serves the purpose of protecting club heritage and acting as an intermediary between leagues for funding issues.

The government is optimistic about bringing this together by the end of the 2024-25 season. The bill concerns Leeds in that it would protect the West Yorkshire club from changing to Red Bull Leeds.

Red Bull will be happy to play the long game when it comes to its faith in the Leeds United project. Whether it be two, three or five years, they will be comfortable in the equation of English football for now.

Should results go sideways or promotion slips, there may well be calls for a new manager. It is at that point we may get to Red Bull’s real influence on backroom decisions. The energy drink company may appoint a manager known to the Red Bull network. Consequently, there may be a shift toward the gegenpressing tactics often attributed to Salzburg and Leipzig.

However, for the time being, football spectators can only sit back and observe.

Photo: Imago