“If Arsenal want the player, then they have to produce the value for the player,” Brendan Rodgers said. “There was an offer two weeks ago of £35m. Two weeks later it is now £40m and £1 – I don’t think it is anywhere near what he is worth. But it is two-fold, really. A player may want to go but then somebody has to pay the value of that player. It is not something we want to run on too long.”

Rodgers said it best himself: “A player may want to go but then somebody has to pay the value of that player.” So does Luis Suarez want to go? It seems like it. In Melbourne, Suarez cut a dejected figure; uninterested in playing for Liverpool; uninterested in the whole prospect of playing in front of a crowd of 95,000. Even when he set up the goal, he didn’t even crack a smile. It seems he’s already decided to pack up and leave. And if so, here’s why its best for all parties involved.

Why It’s Good For Liverpool:

Getting rid of Suarez would be a good move for Rodgers and Liverpool. Yes they will be losing a player of world-class standards, but the benefits outweigh them. If Arsenal does agree to match their fee they demand, they can re-use it wisely and bring some more quality players to add decent depth to their squad.

Luciano Moggi, the former Juventus General Manager, admitted that the best decision he did was to sell Zidane for a high fee, before purchasing the likes of Buffon, Nedved, and Thuram, which became the backbone of that dominate Juventus team in the early 2000s.

Plus why should Liverpool keep a player that wants to leave? It’s a typical question that most clubs face everyday. If Suarez is to stay around, it doesn’t mean he wouldn’t try to force a move in January or next summer. Keeping him around would drag the transfer saga on, becoming a burden and negatively affecting the dressing room.

Why It’s Good For Arsenal:

Arsene Wenger needs to make a big signing. He really does. The criticism that he’s faced over the last couple of seasons has been building and his fan base is starting to turn against him. No one denies Wenger knows how to spot a young diamond and then turn him into a champion, but it’s time that Wenger actually bit the bullet and bought a player of real stand-out quality that will actually improve the team. The pressure has been cranked up especially after CEO Ivan Gazidis’ comments regarding the Gunners new-found financial power (a transfer kitty of £70million this summer — of which, Arsenal has spent zero pounds thus far).

Suarez won’t be cheap, but he will improve Arsenal. He’s the type of player that the Gunners really need up-front. Walcott is good, but plays on the wing and isn’t suited to playing alone front, while Lukas Podolski blows hot and cold too often and Olivier Giroud is over-rated and makes Arsenal too one-dimensional because he’s just a basic target man.

Suarez though offers the ability to create something from nothing. And score goals. An Arsenal with Suarez would actually be contender, instead of a pretender.

Finally, this will make show Arsenal is still a big club and willing to make a statement of intent. It would help change their feeder perception; as well entice others to look at Arsenal the way they look at Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester United and Bayern Munich.

Why It’s Good For Suarez

He wants to leave — whether it’s because of the English media or whether it’s actually because he wants to play in the Champions League — and he’s using the media card as a smokescreen. Regardless, it seems that Suarez doesn’t care if he is going to ruffle some feathers along the way even if he signs with Arsenal. He still gets to play in the Premier League, the Champions League and potentially start with a clean slate at the Emirates.

Now that the Premier League season has come to a close, it’s time for a retrospective look at events from the 2012-13 season. In my opinion, it hasn’t been an exhilarating season by any means, with the title race a breeze for Manchester United.

But this season is something else: It will be the last time that Sir Alex Ferguson will be at the helm of Manchester United. After 26 years and a whopping 24 major trophies (13 Premier League titles, 5 FA Cups, 4 League Cups and two Champions League medals) the world’s greatest and most successful coach is departing the game. His presence in the game will be sorely missed and there is no doubting that Britain will take some time before someone of that calibre will make his mark.

Anyway, back to the league and how much of the entertainment came from the battle of the top four, which went down to the wire.

It was pretty evident that United would be champions; City’s poor form and lacklustre showing shows a team very much in need for some reinforcements next season. But it will be under a new manager, with Roberto Mancini sacked. Call it unjust or unfair, but with rumors of player unrest, the sacking came as no surprise.

Arsenal who, despite fighting tough all year, ended another season in the top four, at the expense of their London rivals, Tottenham. Chelsea had a typical Chelsea season: the prospect of an era of dominance, followed by sacking Roberto Di Matteo and the cycle to start all over again, with the appointment of much maligned Rafael Benitez. The era will start again soon, with the ‘Special One’ rumored to return.

Liverpool are under a new boss, Mr Brendan Rodgers, who wants to begin some new form of a dynasty, and showing that will take time to get there. Everton, once again showed they can handle it with the big boys in David Moyes’ last season in charge.

West Bromwich, Swansea and West Ham all had decent seasons, pushing above their weight. Southampton, too, showed that you can play fantastic football and avoid the drop.

Of course, we’ve had to deal with QPR and the lack of Harry “Houdini” Redknapp saving their skin. Reading looked good, then sacked Brian McDermott, and now they’re gone. Aston Villa has been playing with fire all season, despite the exciting arrival of Paul Lambert. And Wigan Athletic provided us with some of the most bittersweet moments of the year: beating Manchester City in the FA Cup, but sadly failed to stay up for another season.

Regardless, we’ve had some fantastic games, goals, moments, sackings and surprises. So here below is my list of moments that highlight the 2012/2013 season of the Premier League.

Best Managers: Pretty hard to look pass Sir Alex Ferguson for his side cakewalking to the title. Credit though must be given to Michael Laudrup for continuing Swansea’s success; David Moyes for making Everton push above their weight in his final season and Steve Clarke showing there’s life after Roy Hodgson at West Brom.

Top Three Players: It’s hard to choose just one player of the year, especially this year, when there’s been no stand-out like previous years (Cristiano Ronaldo, Thierry Henry etc.) so as opposed to one, here are three.

Gareth Bale – The Welshman became the third person to win both the PFA’s Player and Young Player of the Year. It took him a while to kick into gear but his second half of the season has been monstrous.

Robin van Persie – The Dutchman is the reason his side are Champions. Few can dispute the move from Arsenal to United wasn’t a top purchase on behalf of Fergie’s part.

Luis Suarez – it’s the question that been around all season: where would Liverpool be without Suarez? The situation best categorizes “a one man team” this season.

Best games: 3-2 Manchester United versus City. An exhilarating match with both teams going end-to-end and then RVP winning it at the death.

4-3 Manchester United versus Newcastle. United kept pulling the rabbit out of the hat, showing the grit of champions to snatch the win.

7-3 Arsenal versus Newcastle. 10 goals in an absorbing match, with Newcastle pushing the Gunners right down to the wire, then Theo Walcott blowing them away.

4-3 Norwich versus Swansea. The Canaries were flying high after an explosive start before Swansea came roaring out the blocks to set up a frantic finish.

Team of the Season: (Lined up in the now popular 4-3-3): Asmir Begovic; Leighton Baines, Rio Ferdinand, Jan Vertonghen, Pablo Zabaleta; Juan Mata, Michael Carrick, Marouane Fellaini; Luis Suarez, Robin Van Persie, Gareth Bale.

Best bit of business: Michu for £2 million. 17 goals and a League Cup later. Followed closely by Christian Benteke £7m for Aston Villa – the only bright spark in a dismal season for the Villians and the reason they’re staying up.

Good, but we expected better: Replacing the likes of RVP was never going to be easy. But there was some hope that Oliver Giroud would fit in seamlessly at the Gunners. The Frenchman has shown that he has the potential to achieve some decent history with Arsenal. We just, you know, expected a little more.

What were they thinking? Harry Redknapp said that QPR wouldn’t spend big during January. So they bought Christopher Samba for £14.5 million to sure up the backline to avoid relegation. They were relegated.

Best Managerial Celebration: Yes, everyone loves it when managers go nuts after a goal is scored. This moment goes to Sunderland’s Paolo Di Canio for this explosive celebration after beating Newcastle. Expect more of that I say.

The board might actually have gotten it right: Southampton were on a roll, then the board went on to sack Nigel Adkins. Fans were stunned. Then they brought in former Espanyol and non-English-speaking Argentinean Mauricio Pochettino. Now they’re safe from relegation, beating Manchester City along the way.

You just have to laugh: Arsene Wenger struggling to zip up his oversized and overlong coat. Is that where he’s hiding all Arsenal’s savings?

Most bizarre moment: Luis Suarez trying to eat Chelsea’s Branislav Ivanovic.

Could it really be? Rafael Benitez turning things around at Chelsea. Yes, you read that right. He’s done a surprisingly good job at the Blues, earning Champions League qualification, as well as the Europa League trophy.  Could it be that the fans are, gulp, warming up to him just as he’s about to leave?

Surprises of the season: Swansea continuing to tear everyone apart. Manchester City still partying from last season. That Chelsea didn’t sack the Roberto Di Matteo sooner. Likewise QPR with Mark Hughes. Expecting Fernando Torres to become good again. Newcastle pummeled so badly.

Certainties of the season: QPR getting relegated; Chelsea sacking a manager; Arsenal starting poorly and finishing in the top four; The title race involving just the Manchester clubs; Everton failing to break into the top bracket; Liverpool planning for the future, again. Stoke City playing like, well Stoke City.

What we hope for next season: We would like a title race. Jose Mourinho and Joey Barton to return for some fireworks. Arsenal to actually spend money. Gareth Bale to stay in England. More Paolo Di Canio antics.

The Question for next season: Will David Moyes win a trophy? The world’s eyes will be on the former Everton boss who takes this job.

Season Rating: This hardly eclipses last season’s sensational finish, where the title, the top four and the relegation battle were decided on the last day. However, it could have been expected that after such a high, there was always going to be a comedown. Nevertheless, there’s been enough here to make the season at least memorable in many ways. 6.5/10

Despite prolonged negotations, Andre Villas-Boas is now the new manager of Tottenham Hotspur. Replacing Harry Redknapp, Villas-Boas has plenty of work ahead of him. Here are 5 things AVB needs to do:

1. Get the players onboard
One thing, AVB should have learnt at Chelsea was the simplistic nature of player power. With hard heads like Lampard and Terry, to name a few, AVB failed to convert his ideas, which ultimately crushed him during his reign. The Portuguese has to get the players on his side and form a united dressing room. Breaking up the group, reminiscent of his actions of excluding certain Chelsea players, will harm the unity in the squad and begin turning the tide on the manager.

2. Resolve the Modric Situation
This is the big equation floating around the Tottenham board and dressing room. The Croatian wants Champions League football, but with Spurs’ unlucky failure last season, he missed out again. AVB can’t let the situation drag on like Redknapp did. Either he gets the Croat to stay, or he sells him to the highest bidder, and then spends the profit on a new squad. Waiting until the last moment to sell him might cost the team.

3. Sort out the striker conundrum
To keep Adebayor or not? The Togolese striker wants to get paid a pretty wage, one that Tottenham can’t afford. And given Daniel Levy’s history, won’t match; something Manchester City can. Another loan option isn’t possible, as City want to cut their wage bill. Jermain Defoe is the only other forward on the list, but after an average season, the hunt is on for another lethal striker, as their list is quite short.

4. Buy another centre back
Michael Dawson has been injured for a while; William Gallas’ youth is deserting him and Ledley King is on his last legs. They can maybe hold out another season, but AVB needs another solid defender in the backline; one that is youthful, fit, and adaptable to fit into AVB’s high pressure game plan. The search begins…

5. Fix the tactical enigma
AVB loves his 4-3-3, with a Barcelona flow and movement. It failed at Chelsea with the players unable to adapt. It ultimately cost him his job. By the time he went back to the basics, the knives were out behind AVB’s back. This can’t occur at Tottenham, with a trigger happy Daniel Levy hovering behind him (he fired Juande Ramos, don’t forget). AVB needs to hit the ground running. And getting the tactics spot on from the beginning is crucial to a good season.

He’d been linked to Bayern Munich, the Champions League Finalists twice over the last three years, over the last few months. Instead he’s found himself at the Emirates. Last season’s Ligue 1 top goal scorer, with a Ligue 1 championship medal around his neck, Oliver Giroud has left the sunny city of Montpellier for the windy chill of North London. The striker, who was part of the French squad during the European Championship, is now part of the ever-growing French contingent at Arsenal for the tune of £13 million pounds. This is the second signing during the off-season by Arsene Wenger following the arrival of German Lukas Podolski (for £10,900,000) and yet there is a different feeling in regards to these signings.

While Giroud and Podolski are not star names, they are in fact big names. Podolski has been Germany’s Golden Boy for years now, with many waiting for his potential to be fully realized. A star on the international stage, he has struggled at club level, yet everyone knows of Podolski. Giroud, while not a massive name, has enjoyed a quick rise over the last two years. So much so, he’s found himself playing for the national team in a disappointing French team.

After the disastrous transfer window last year, Wenger seems to have learnt his lesson. He’s brought on two strikers of great talent, which can really bring something different to Arsenal. Podolski can play on the left or down the central, while Giroud provides Wenger with that target man that he’s been searching over the years (Chamakh and Bendtner being utter failures). More so, these arrivals are a sign of preparation in regards to the Robin van Persie saga.

The Dutchman has yet to sign a contract with the Gunners. The latest news report is that he won’t be leaving for the any of the Spanish giants, yet Manchester City might still be an option. If van Persie leaves, Wenger has found enough cover to replace him, even though another signing would benefit the Gunners. If van Persie stays, that would be make Arsenal a dangerous prospect. Wenger now has more options upfront, able to play van Persie in the ‘hole’ or even throw him out to the left, with Giroud playing the lone hit man. These arrivals obviously lessen the burden on van Persie’s goal scoring burden.

Wenger has finally flexed his spending muscles. So far, he’s spent £23 million on only two signings. The imminent departures of Manuel Alumnia, Marouane Chamakh, Nicklas Bendtner, Carlos Vela, Sébastien Squillaci and Korean striker Chu-Young Park, possibly all for a decent value, means Wenger will have more room for his squad and even a larger transfer chest.

He shouldn’t stop his lavish spending though. Wenger has brought in some fantastic players and should continue to do so, in order to make Arsenal the title challenging force that it once was. The squad list already holds some valuable players, yet more arrivals are bound to add depth, when the stars go out injury or suspension. The interest in Rennes defensive midfielder Yann M’Vila should be pursued. The Frenchman would add grunt to the side, clearly lacking when Wilshere was missing. Plus he can cover defensive for Song, who over the previous season has joined the attack.

There is also increased interest in Blackburn winger Junior Hoilett.  While Arsenal have an abundance of wingers, with Walcott, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Gervinho and now Podolski in the frame, Hoilett can arrive on a free transfer and more so, has the potential to grow into a better player, plus add depth when required. Giroud’s teammate and captain of Montepellier, Mapou Yanga Mbiwa has also been linked and he would be an exceptional deal, if he was brought through. Another centre-half would help, considering the Gunners’ lack of quality defenders. Mbiwa might cost Wenger another £13million but considering the vast of transfer money that could be coming in, it would worth while spending.

The problems of last year seem to have a profound affect on Wenger. He’s moved fast in the transfer window, spending money he hasn’t spent before. He shouldn’t zip up his wallet, but continue to burn the cash. After years of cheap signings and free transfers, Wenger has brought in players of a quality calibre. Upon his arrival, Giroud stated his intentions with Arsenal.

“I think there is a good spirit here and that is another reason why I chose this club. I am confident in the potential of the group and I am convinced that in the future, hopefully next season, we can win something.” If Wenger keeps buying, they might finally do it.

Well, its official: Arsenal captain Robin Van Persie has been named the PFA (Players’ Football Association) Player of the Season. The Dutchman received the award ahead of fellow stars Wayne Rooney, Scott Parker and the Manchester City trio of David Silva, Joe Hart and Sergio Aguero. The Gunners star is thoroughly deserved of his award and there can be no questioning.

Over the season as a whole, there is no doubting that Van Persie is the Player of the Season. His recent form might contradict these claims (one goal in seven games); but its his influence and mere presence on the pitch that matters.

Since taking the Captain’s armband from Barcelona-bounded Cesc Fabregas, Van Persie has truly blossomed in his leadership role. He is now truly Arsenal’s talisman, like Cesc, Henry and Bergkamp before him. Unlike his contenders, Van Persie doesn’t have the quality around him compared to the previous glory days, magnifying his achievements more so. He’s not just Arsenal’s leading goal scorer with 27 goals this season, he’s also provided 10 assists to his teammates; showing that he’s more than just a goal getter. But it’s when Arsenal has been under the pump that he’s risen to the challenge.

Countless moments he’s made that decisive pass, that delicate through ball, that delicious lob pass, the darting through one, two, three defenders, the drifting in space unseen and goals. Left foot, right foot, headers, chips, lobs, thunderbolts, free kicks and volleys and more volleys.

Who can forget that free kick against Sunderland? Those magnificent volleys against the Merseyside clubs, Everton and Liverpool? What about his hat trick against Chelsea? And Blackburn? His inspirational performance to lift Arsenal against Aston Villa? And what about the stunning equaliser against North London rivals Tottenham?

No one can doubt that the Player of the Season award deserves to go to Van Persie. He was the favourite for the award and be can’t be any more deserving to be claim to the best player of 2011-2012 season. Congratulations to Robin Van Persie, Arsenal’s Captain Fantastic and the deserved PFA Player of the Season!

Earlier this week, the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) announced the six players nominated for their Player of the Year award. There are some surprises and there are some no-brainers. But who deserves to wear the crown for the best player of the 2011-2012 season?

Here are the six players, considering their chances:

David Silva

If the award would be announced at the midway point of the season, Silva would have it locked up in his closet already. Such was his form, the 2010 World Cup winning Spaniard was in irresistible form. His fluid style of play, buzzing in and out of the opposition’s half was the dynamic reason City were unstoppable in scoring goals. Yet, his second half of the season, there is no doubt Silva hasn’t been as effective. He cuts a tired figure out in the field. Was it his fault for City’s collapse? They haven’t looked the same without him pulling the strings. Or is it Mancini’s mistake to use him without break and thus burn him out at the season’s end?

Joe Hart

A surprise choice in the nominations; more so, as City captain Vincent Kompany was overlooked. No doubt that he’s had a fantastic season, but it was the unbreakable defense in front of him that helped City to where they are now. Hart has contributed with some stunning saves throughout the season, but he has had some howlers, but which keeper hasn’t? Problem is other keepers have had better seasons, such as Swansea’s Michael Vorm and Newcastle’s Tim Krul. Would be real shock if he won the award, considering no keeper has ever won it.

Sergio Aguero

The Argentine has also been nominated for the Young Player of the Year award and that’s what he’ll probably take home on Awards night. The expensive Argentine (£38million), was in devastating form when City were rolling, but his form waned dramatically when City were falling. Yet there is no doubt the importance of this man to the Sky Blues line up with Mancini admitting after the 3-3 draw with Sunderland that ‘If we’d had Aguero we would have won.’ 21 goals in his first season in English football is a great return for Maradona’s son in law.

Wayne Rooney

Another spectacle year from Rooney, who has taken the mantle from Cristiano Ronaldo as United’s best player. Another 24 goals and four assist has helped United clawed their way back to the summit of the Premier League. It not just the numbers that have spoken, it’s merely Rooney’s presence alone on the field that does it. Defenders have struggled to contain him when he’s been on full flow. Can easily claim his second Player of the Year Award to add to his 2010 trophy.

Robin van Persie

The favorite for the award and who could doubt it? He is the sole reason Arsenal is in third place and back in Champions League contention. After their dreadful start to the season, it was the Dutchman who lifted the Gunners out of their rut with a stunning run of 14 goals in 12 games, including that famous hat trick at Chelsea. All the other nominates have high calibre players around them, Van Persie doesn’t. He even has 10 assists to his name such is his importance to the team. Is also favourite to take out the Golden Boot with 27 goals so far this season. Surely he can’t lose?

Scott Parker

Last year’s Football Writers’ Player of the Year is back amongst the best after another stellar campaign. His positioning in from the back four is the reason Tottenham have been more resilient this season. His hard work has given licence to Luka Modric to be the creative hub of the team. In any other year would be a shoe-in for the award but after Spurs’ mid-season collapse it would be hard for him to take award.

And the unlucky ones to have missed out:

• Tim Krul,
• Fabricio Coloccini and
• Demba Ba.

The Magpies are having a stunning season, surprising ever critic and supporter out there. Their success has been down to these three men, whose consisted displays have launched Newcastle into Champions League contention. A shame not one of them got nominated.

Who do you think should win the 2011-12 PFA Player of the Year Award?

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Last week Jose Mourinho was in London house shopping. Days later Andre Villas-Boas gets the sack. Was it a planned coup? Is Mourinho returning to the club where he made his name? He apparently doesn’t like Spain, nor the Spanish media so is he going to leave Real Madrid at the end of the season?

But Pep Guardiola is in it too. He hasn’t signed an extension to his contract with Barcelona. He’s always said he wants to coach outside Spain one day. He joked about coaching Chelsea didn’t he? Surely it was just a joke? Maybe leave Barcelona on a high note?

Wait! There’s still Rafa Benitez, who recently said he wants to coach again and would be interested in the Chelsea job. Maybe he doesn’t mind coaching a team where the owner is a renegade and acts on his own accord?

Sven. That’s right Sven-Goran Eriksson said he “would take it, of course.” Is Sven coming back to the England? He doesn’t think it’s a “poisoned chalice,” so he might take a shot at it.

Roberto Di Matteo might just stay on though, why leave? A couple of wins here and there, get the players on his side and maybe he’ll get the job. Does he even want to try from the poisoned chalice?

The Trequartista looks at the candidates to take over the Chelsea hot-seat and whether these men will suit the Chelsea faithful. And what might get rid of them:

1. Jose Mourinho

• Why he’s right for Chelsea: Well because he put them on the world map in the first place. He has unfinished business at Stamford Bridge, so a return wouldn’t be out of the question. Whether he gets the money to make a complete new team is.
• Will the fans love him: Find me a Chelsea fan that doesn’t.
• Will the players want him:  John Terry, Ashley Cole, Frank Lampard would happily commit adultery with Mourinho. So yeah.
• Why would Roman fire him: If he demands an infinite amount of money; act like he’s running the club and go back to playing 1-0 football.

2. Pep Guardiola

• Why he’s right for Chelsea: His record over the last three years is exceptional. He’s created one of the greatest teams ever; playing the most pleasant football people around the globe have seen.
• Will the fans love him: If he brings them the same success he has with Barcelona, they’ll adore him. Plus the pretty football.
• Will the players accept him: It’s Guardiola; he demands presence and respect when he walks in the room. Whether or not, the players will be happy for him to implement Villas-Boas-like changes remains to be seen. But unlike Villas-Boas behind that cool, calm persona, Pep’s a hard bastardo
• Why would Roman fire him: Rome wasn’t build in a day. Neither was Barcelona. Time is the biggest factor.

3. Rafael Benitez

• Why he’s right for Chelsea: Rafa has a decent record as a manager. Titles in Spain, England and Europe speak for themselves.
• Will the fans love him: Benitez recently said Liverpool fans would still love him if he went to coach Chelsea. As for Chelsea fans, they see as a second-rate Mourinho. Just look at him when he took over at Inter Milan.
• Will the players accept him: Players have known Rafa for his cold demeanour. He doesn’t befriend them or provide them with support; he’s a model professional, so maybe that’s what the Chelsea dressing room needs. Plus, he’s made Torres a star player, so maybe he could do it again?
• Why would Roman fire him:  He plays boring football.

4. Sven-Goran Eriksson

• 
Why he’s right for Chelsea: He has bags of experience: European, International, domestic and a wealth of trophies to show his success.
• Will the fans love him: Eriksson has become an unpopular person in England following his wasted spell of the so-called “Golden Generation”. Although he was unlucky to get out of finals on penalties twice (World Cup ’06 and Euro ’04). So it’s a straight 50-50.
• Will the players accept him: The oldies will have worked with him before and although they never won anything, there was never a bad word said about him.
• Why would Roman fire him:  For Sven to a great coach, he’ll need good players, which requires spending on Roman’s half. Which might not happen; resulting in Sven relying on the players he has now, which aren’t too good either. It will be tough for him.

5. Roberto Di Matteo

• Why he’s right for Chelsea: He knows the club inside out. He’s great at man management. Plus he’s got an eye for attractive football. He’s already off to a good start with a 2-0 win in the FA Cup over Birmingham already. A good finish to the season, might see him grab the role permanently.
• Will the fans love him: He was voted in Chelsea’s greatest IX. So yeah, they love him.
• Will the players accept him: It seems they already have. The 2-0 win over Birmingham didn’t feature Lampard or Drogba, but there was no problem or political pull. He simply took them aside and told them why they were starting on the bench. No problems, no fuss. He’s got them on his side; something AVB never had.
• Why would Roman fire him: Highly unlikely that Roman would fire him – he’s only contracted till the end of the season anyway. Another sacking would cause more chaos in the Chelsea staff. If he gets them to fourth place he might stay around. Or Roman might still fire him anyway.

Out of the five candidates, which one do you think should get the Chelsea job and that will be able to turn the team around? Or is there a candidate you think that should be considered that’s not listed above? Share your opinions in the comments section below.

They say you can buy a team of champions, but not a championship team. The consensus is that Manchester City, currently two points clear of their rivals Manchester United, is that if they do claim the Premier League, they would have “bought” it.

That’s far from a fair comment. There’s no questioning that spending power helps in modern football; merely look at the success of Manchester United, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Chelsea over the last few years. Spending millions on players doesn’t guarantee success though. So it doesn’t matter if City decides to spend another $50 million on Kaka, Pastore or Ibrahimovic and so forth, it won’t mean that they’ll stroll and take the League championship.

To do that, you’ll need that special individual to make it all work: the manager. How important is Roberto Mancini to City? History tells us that without a top-class manager, regardless of the millions, teams won’t go anywhere.

It all started with Real Madrid’s Galaticos. During Florentino Perez’s first reign, he brought in superstars Luis Figo, Zidane and Ronaldo. The first couple of years, they dominated the game, winning two La Liga titles and two Champions League trophies. Their success though was attributed to manager Vincente Del Bosque. However, that faithful day came: Del Bosque left and Madrid went through five managers in three seasons, resulting in no trophies, before Perez left.

Now in his second spell at the club, Perez brought in the successful Mourinho who has crafted a superb team in two seasons. Would Madrid be this good without him? Manuel Pellegrini couldn’t do it in his first season but Mourinho has made the team gel together, tactically and mentality. They are sure to reclaim La Liga this year.

Mourinho was part of another revolution at Chelsea. In his first two seasons with the club, Abramovich happily spent £70million on players. Would they have won without Mourinho at the helm? Seems unlikely. Chelsea has had five managers since and none of them have been able to control a team littered with stars.

Roberto Mancini deserves all the credit if Manchester City takes the title. Since his arrival, he’s built a squad in his own image: hard working, defensively strong and a desire to win at all costs. He arrived with a squad dismally created under Mark Hughes. Hughes seemed to want to create a team based around playing an English brand of football. Mancini though knew what was needed: a team build around a disciplined, steel-like defence. Critics were on him like vultures saying he was too “pragmatic.” And at times he was, but he was doing it for the long term, knowing it would be the backbone to success.

Now during this second full season, his team know what it is expected of them. The players know that their defensive efforts come first. One can notice the change in James Milner. In and out of the team in his first season, he’s now considered a regular. Milner isn’t a super player and doesn’t offer much in terms of creativity or spark, but he does offer a determination and hard running. Mancini has moulded his players in this fashion. Milner pointed out that new summer signing Gael Clichy was shocked when he first arrived at City because he was surprised that the players were tackling a lot in training because Arsenal didn’t do that too much. After the 6-1 thrashing of United at Old Trafford, keeper Joe Hart said “I was annoyed. You can get carried away with the result, but we let in a goal. It kills me to let one in, it kills all of us.”

People argue that Mancini still has used large sums of money to get the quality players and build a fabulous team. No one is arguing that. Yet with so many high profile players, Mancini has managed to keep them all happy and more importantly playing for the team. When trouble has arisen through the season, Mancini has sorted it the same way he has sorted out his team: Through discipline. Everyone already knows the case of Carlos Tevez: His banishment and now his return. Everyone knows about Mario Balotelli’s antics and how this season, he’s been less (to an extent) of a troublemaker.

A lesser manager would have crumbled underneath all this pressure of player revolts, big name stars and media criticism. Mancini though is just like the player he was has taken it in his stride: A determined, disciplined individual with a winning passion. The Italian has created a team worthy of winning the Premier League, and if they do overcome their great rivals and take the crown, it’s not the money that everyone should be praising, it’s Mancini.

After a miserable week, Arsene Wenger’s future at the club has never looked more unsecure. The tide is turning for the once untouchable Wenger with the rallying of fans, critics and players going against Arsenal’s greatest manager.

Fans have voiced their displeasure of the past few months; with a recent poll saying that it’s time for Wenger to leave. Former players and coaches have dived into the debate: Roy Keane calling this the “worst Arsenal team”; Dennis Bergkamp has said the side are “predictable, weak and lacking a winning mentality.” Even former AC Milan manager Arrigo Sacchi says it’s the “worst Arsenal side in 10 years”.

Critics and journalists have said “Enough is enough” and have asked how much longer Wenger can have the benefit of the doubt. When questioned about his future at the Emirates, in the post-match conference in the 2-0 loss to Sunderland, Wenger refused to answer, and instead replied, “I think it’s better we finish this press conference now.”

With loyal fans turning against him, the reputation of the club crumbling, the push it seems for Wenger to quit (or be sacked) has never been higher. So with the rumour mill picking up vibes that it could be the end of Wenger’s tenure, The Trequartista takes a look at some managers who would be able to replace the Frenchman.

(The managers mentioned are those of the Trequartista’s viewpoint of who would be best equipped to take over)

Remi Garde (Lyon)
He might be only one season into his tenure, but Garde has all the ingredients. Firstly, he’s a former pupil of Wenger; being part of the 97/98 Double winning squad. Secondly, he plays an attrative brand of football. Thirdly, he has the charisma and personality to handle players and to get them playing for their team, most notably in keeping Juventus bound Michael Bastos from leaving, prompting him to sign a new contract till 2015 saying, “I feel loved again here and that’s down to the coach”. Fourthly, he has experience in bringing in younger players, giving them the chance to impress; something the Arsenal board would love. He’s more tactically sound than Wenger; converting Lyon’s trusted 4-3-3 to 4-2-2 and to great success. A favourite.

Ottmar Hitzfeld (Switzerland National Team)
18 titles pretty much says it all. He’s probably the Bundesliga greatest manager with seven titles and two Champion League titles with two different clubs. Hitzfeld might be an odd choice for the roll, but he would definitely make Arsenal are true contender again. He’s a true German footballer; efficiency being the key to success. He believes in constructing harmony in the team; with all players focus on the one goal. One-nil victories would please Hitzfeld; known to build hard working teams defensive teams. It will not suit the true Arsenal faithful, but who’s going to complain if it leads them to a title?

Josep Guardiola (Barcelona)
Plays attacking football. Develops young players. Can keep team motivation at an high. Puts team success before anything else (Ibrahimovic, anyone?) 13 trophies in 3 years and only 41 years old. Has said he would relish the chance to coach outside Spain. A born winner. His contract finishes at the end of the season; give the man what he wants and sign him up!

Louis Van Gaal (Free)
The Dutchman might be very rough around the edges, but his record over his 25 year career says it all. Van Gaal is a very tough, fierce person, who will probably frighten the team into playing for their lives. He has been notorious in the past for clashing with several players, yet the results stand for themselves. Arsenal has lacked leadership over the years and Van Gaal is known for inspiring his players to play for the team. Tactically sound, he’s style is that of Dutch attacking taste, but will alter his ways for success (See his AZ Alkmaar’s 09 Championship winning side, playing a prodiminet defensive game). Also known for developing several world class talents. He would love the challenge.

Amid a torrid run of form, player backlash and the famed “backing” of a trigger happy owner, the following month could be make or break for Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas

Every manager goes through it. A run of important fixtures that can ultimately decide a team’s season. It’s around this time of the year too. Games of all sorts, league, cup clashes and European endeavours start to creep its way in the calendar. Chelsea’s period starts now and it has all the problems, issues and pressures the size of an iceberg. And it could be a very important period for one man — manager Andre Villas-Boas.

This is no exaggeration. Villas-Boas is under intense pressure to lift the Blues, who have fallen on very hard times. They sit fifth on the table, behind Arsenal on goals scored, in the chase of the Champions League final spot. It’s not that the Blues are out of the hunt, far from it, but it’s their recent form that has brought this unwanted pressure on the team. Two wins from their last 10 league games says it’s all. And that’s not even near the tip of the iceberg.

The rumour mill has started to swirl with talk that former Chelsea maestro manager Jose Mourinho could make a sensational return to Premier League next season; with the destination being Stamford Bridge. It might just be the gossip and talk, but it’s an unwanted cloud hanging over Villas-Boas’ head. The rumours instil an uncertainty in the works of Villas-Boas who is having trouble to implement his own style, a high pressuring, possession based game, in an very Mourinho moulded team. Added to the fact that FC Porto President Da Pinto points out that “there are players who exchange text messages with Mourinho”, and more worrying that “Abramovich knows this”, which surely undermines the Chelsea’s managers work in constructing his own team. And that’s not even the tip of the iceberg.

After Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Everton, Villas-Boas was confronted by senior players in a heated exchanged the day after the game. The players expressed their doubts about Villas-Boas’ ability and skill to take the club forward. Villas-Boas even admitted that “They [the players] don’t have to back my project”. Difficult enough to implement and construct a team with a blend of both old players tied to old ways and new signings. More difficult if those players don’t believe in the project themselves. Villas-Boas has had problems to instil his new style, forcing himself to slowly go back in the Mourinho mode (defending deep and countering) at times during the season, but there’s always been that effort to change the formula. If the players don’t believe it, it’s more of a problem. And that still isn’t the tip of the iceberg.

Villas-Boas’ respond to his players’ outburst was that, “My authority is total because it’s the owner’s authority” and “It’s the owner who backs my project”. This is the same owner who fired Mourinho for playing too “pragmatic”; who sacked Avram Grant despite him leading the club to final of Champions League after the departure of the ‘special one’; the same owner who sacked Carlo Ancelottli,even though he lead the team to ‘double’ in his first season. So what’s the chance of Abramovich keeping Villas-Boas around if he can’t satisfy the owner’s needs of a trophy and European competition? Villas-Boas has said that “It is a relationship that is perfect at the moment”. How many times have we heard that before? Tip of the iceberg?

No, that’s not the tip of the large iceberg. All those problems and pressures that Villas-Boas is facing is merely the ground work leading to the tip of the iceberg: the “make or break” period that is steering straight at Villas-Boas. Over the course of the next few weeks, Chelsea have an important FA Cup replay; their Champions League ties against Napoli and a host of Premier League teams fighting against relegation in Bolton, West Brom, Stoke then an double header of Manchester City and Tottenham.

A couple of bad results in the League and could struggled to get fourth place in what is turning out be a four-way battle including Arsenal, Liverpool and Newcastle. Failure to continue in the FA Cup might results in more disastrous outcomes; not to mention if they fail to beat Napoli. This on top of backing of a trigger happy owner, a revolting group of players and persisted rumours of replacement. Villas-Boas has never been in a more intense situation before in his short managerial career. Best bet to get those results and fast.

Arsene Wenger isn’t known for dabbling in the winter transfer window. In fact he deems that it should be “scrapped”. History though tells us another thing. Over the past couple of seasons, Arsenal has entered the winter transfer window needing an extra signing or two. This season is much like the previous. More important, because this year Arsenal desperately need that cover because this season could make or break Arsenal. No exaggeration there.

It’s been in the news for a while that Arsenal needs that extra cover — for positions all over. The loss of their wingbacks has been hotly discussed; much more the reinforcements to cover for lone striker Robin van Persie. Plus the delayed injury to Jack Wilshere means the Gunners are short in the centre of the park. What has been Wenger’s response? The return of a former great; no signings for the rearguard and a “hot prospect with potential” — haven’t we heard that before?

We have, and once again we’ve heard Wenger say that the “squad is good enough”. That’s just Wenger talk. The squad isn’t good enough and if there was one season in which Wenger should have dived headfirst in the transfer window, the 2011/2012 season would have been it. We merely have to go over the positions to witness how badly he needed to purchase (or loan even) some players…

The dilemma upfront for Wenger though is obviously and one that’s happened before you’ll think that ‘the Professor’ would learn from it: Van Persie is injury prone. Wenger in turn has tried to use the Dutchman sparingly, giving the other strikers, Marouane Chamakh and Ju Young Park the chance to impress. Simply: they just aren’t good enough. Wenger’s solution was bringing in Thierry Henry for a two-month loan spell. Hardly a clever move. He might have all the class he had for years, but the fact he’s only here for a short period, what happens if Van Persie gets injured after he leaves? Surely a 6-month loan option for another striker would of been a better option or should Gunner fans rely on the misfiring duo of Chamakh and Park (not to mention the erratic performances of Arshavin, Walcott and Gervinho)

In terms of the midfield, one can sense that Arsenal needs that extra grunt. That’s been well documented, but Wenger was relying on the return of Jack Wilshere. That’s right, Wenger was placing the hopes of the team on a 19 year old to carry the Gunners. Common sense would suggest that experience is required, but where is it? Wenger brought in Yossi Benayoun, but he’s hardly played. Mikel Arteta has been good for the Gunners but he’s injury prone. Alex Song, Aaron Ramsey and Tomas Rosicky can hardly carry the midfield alone. Where’s that extra muscle? The latest news is that Wilshere is out for the season. Surely that’s the sign for Wenger to go searching for that signing? He’s name is Thomas Eisfeld a 19 year old from Dortmund, whom Goal.com’s Clark Whitney says that he’s “very raw, entirely unproven player, not yet ready for football at the highest level”. Is this really Wenger’s solution to the midfield problem?

Bad defending and Arsenal are one and the same. This season, once again the Gunners have been dreadful at the back. But that’s not to say that the Gunners don’t have quality personnel. In the centre of the park, they have Per Mertesacker, Thomas Vermaelen and Laurent Koscelny. Problem is after that is where the team suffers. Johan Djourou and Sébastien Squillaci have shown they are not up to it. On the wings is the biggest problem, with Andre Santos, Kieran Gibbs and Carl Jenkinson out for a lenghty period (the return of Bakary Sagna is a bright spot). Yet again Arsenal has had to rely on raw talent in the form of Ignasi Miquel, Francis Coquelin and Nico Yennaris who Wenger says “is suited to the top level”. That’s after one game against Manchester United. Shouldn’t Wenger have gone searching for that defender with experience who could help out when required?

No he didn’t. Wenger has stuck to his formula from over the years, leaving Arsenal relying on youthful prospects during crunch time. Is it going to work? History tells us no, but this season it has too. Arsenal is in a dangerous position of no Champions League. Miss that and Van Persie might find the value of playing elsewhere; incoming players might figure its better going to other rivals teams at the prospect of playing at an higher level and what about those young players who figure it’s better to pull a “Nasri”? Get game time and experience at  Arsenal then run off to winning team?

It’s breaking point for Wenger. If this backfires on him, he better be prepared for an ambush of criticism. Or we could be wrong; Wenger proving us he’s the man we all say he is. History though doesn’t say so.

Two nil down to City, most teams would have bitten the dust and collapse, but Spurs showed an undying belief to fight back. This isn’t the Spurs team of years ago; this is Redknapp’s team, full of hard running and energy. They were unlucky to lose to a spot kick in the 94th minute, especially conceding it to a player who should have been sent off. They will feel hard done by, but their performance showed they can mix it with the big boys. Eight points behind isn’t a mountain to climb, given the nature of the Premier league this season and with a bit of luck on their side, Spurs’ can overcome the Manchester clubs.

…while Arsenal were never in it.

And aren’t going to be in for a long time, it seems. Manchester United versus Arsenal always had a prestige to it, now it clear of the distinct gap between the two sides and Arsenal can no longer really be considered a force anymore. If this season was a one-off, you can cite a number of reasons, but the fact that we’ve seen this Arsenal team before over the last six seasons, suggests that despite Wenger’s constant comments that the team is progressing; they haven’t and aren’t going too either. A lack of quality players; an unorganised backline; no plan B and possibly no Champions League next season (they are five points behind Chelsea) expect them to fall a little further unless major changes are implemented.

City’s lack of depth is noticeable

For all the talk of Manchester City having a team filled with unquestionable depth, there is a clear indication that the Sky Blues are reliant on a handful of players. Vincent Kompany’s absence is especially noticeable with City’s defence looking less resolute without him and either Lescott or Savic living up to standards. The same goes for the frontline: City need Balotelli or Aguero to be firing at all times, with Dzeko blowing cold more often than hot. Finally, the lack of a midfield presence in Yaya Toure cannot be ignored. The Ivorian offers everything: hard running, a fierce combative nature, an eye for attacking flair and a defensive resoluteness.  City were missing his presence against Spurs and they will be hoping he returns from Africa, ready to go.

United will be fighting to the end.

Much like last season, there was a distinct lack of world-class quality in the United team. Apart from Wayne Rooney, United don’t have the players of yesteryear, instead focusing on young players and a few experienced individuals to lead them. Last season, they won the title not because of the quality of the side, but rather because they wanted it more. They fought tooth and nail; never giving up, believing they could win in any situation. And just like last season, they are doing it again. Sir Alex has moulded the squad with a winning mentality, doing what it takes to win. They dominated the first half against Arsenal and after the Gunners drew level, you thought the momentum had swung, but United, true to their fashion, fought harder and took the lead. 2-1, 3 points and still in the race. Expect them to fight to the end.

It’s been scintillating six months of English football. We’ve had blow outs (8-2, 5-3, and 6-1 between some big guns) and some stunning individual performances (numerous hat-tricks and goal line saves). With half a season to go, it’s time to decide who has made the Team of the Season so far, settling in a traditional English 4-4-2 formation.

Goalkeeper – Joe Hart:

Being consistent is important for a goalkeeper and with his team leading the way at the top Joe Hart has been the best this season. While he has only kept four clean sheets in 18 League games so far, Hart has stepped up when City has been under the pump. He’s done it time and time again against some Big Six and lesser teams. Strong in the air, with quick reflexes, Hart has pulled some stunning saves and leads the backline comfortably and his consistency is one of the reasons City are at the top. With a less skillful and mentality fragile keeper, they wouldn’t be.

Right Back – Micah Richards:

Overlooked by Fabio Capello for the England squad, Richards has been in stunning form this season and deserves his position at right back. The fact that Capello prefers Glen Johnson to City defender is a shame. Roaring up and down the flank, he’s a physical beast; a big man with lighting speed with a great finesse to support the attack. Five assists and a goal in 13 games is a good form for a defender. While at times he’s has to “remember to pick up his brain” (as Mancini puts it) his concentration at the backline has been improving game by game. Should be in the squad for Euro 2012.

Centre Back – Vincent Kompany:

The City captain has been a true leader for the blue side of Manchester. His taking the role from trouble maker Carlos Tevez, Kompany has been as tour de force. Powerful, physical, fast, uncompromising, City have probably one the best centre backs in the game. With 16 games and two goals so far this season, Kompany’s place in the Team of the Season So Far signals his recent superb form.

Centre Back – Fabricio Coloccini:

The reason for Newcastle rise to European positions (except for their recent slump in form) was due to a consistent backline. Argentine Coloccini has been one of the reasons for their success. Alan Pardew handed the defender the armband for the season and it has paid off spectacularly. Forming a formidable partnership with Steven Taylor, Newcastle has one the solid defences in the league. Such is the importance of the Argentine that after getting injured against Chelsea, the Magpies’ defence was in disarray and his replacement (James Perch) let Drogba score a simple goal. Something Coloccini would not have let happen.

Left Back – Jose Enrique:

Liverpool’s summer signing has proven to money well spent. The Spaniard has slotted himself seamlessly at left back and has produced a number of good consistent performances, especially against bigger clubs, including the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal. The reds have only conceded 13 goals so far this season, Enrique being a part of the equation. Strong, fierce and full of hard work and running his form has lead him to say that “’some team-mates have told me to apply for British citizenship” and be in the squad of the Three Lions. It looks unlikely though: I’m not about doing that because I’m Spanish and I want to play for Spain”

Right Midfield – Juan Mata:

Usually plays on the left of Chelsea’s front three, but with that space being occupied by City’s David Silva, Mata finds him on the right side. Not that would be a problem for the Spaniard, who could easily play on the right, left and through the middle. His spark and creativity has been key for Chelsea’s title challenge. He’s been the missing piece of a Blues’ old rearguard, scoring and setting up goals, adjusting well to the Premier League’s fast pace and rough play. Will be part of the Chelsea squad for a long time to come.

Centre Midfield – Lucas Leiva:

Probably one of the most improved players so far this season has been the Brazilian. The Liverpool has added grunt, hard work and decent quality in the centre of the pitch for the Reds this season. They haven’t looked the same without him and a season-ending injury is real blow for the Merseyside club. Hopefully he’ll come back stronger than before.

Centre Midfield – Phil Jones:

A solid signing for Manchester United, but with an already quality filled backline, the multiple-positioned Jones can settle for playing in centre midfield, where he has filled in during the season – to great success. Originally purchased to help an ageing defence, Ferguson has thrown the Englishman into midfield to fulfil an injured plagued area. Hard working, full of grunt and with a keen eye for passing and supporting attacks, Jones has been great for United this season.

Left Midfield – David Silva:

Probably the player of the season so far. Skillful, creativity, slick and slippery, and astute eye for defence splitting passes and a goal sense, Silva has, is, the Manchester City’s main man. A man of the Match performance against United is of one of a series of fantastic performances his season, including getting the winner against Arsenal a fortnight ago. Consistent with hardly any faulty performances, Silva play making abilities has blown away the Premier League this season. Will be the Player of the Season if he continues with this form.

Striker – Demba Ba:

The Senegalese is the signing of the season for the Magpies this season. Two hat-tricks, 13 goals in 16 games, his inspiring form has made Newcastle the surprise package so far. He’s scored 57% of Newcastle’s goals this season and if wasn’t for him, Newcastle wouldn’t be where they are now. Physical, strong and playing without fear, Ba thoroughly deserves his place in the Team of the Season so far.

Striker – Robin Van Persie:

The captain of the Gunners, van Persie has been in irresistible form during the first half of the season. 16 goals in 17 games have launched Arsenal from the early troubles at the start of the season to challenging for a Top Four position.  A stunning run of form of 7 goals in four games including a hat-trick in Arsenal’s 5-3 win over Chelsea has shot the Dutchman to top of the goal scoring charts. Three more goals in 2011 and he will be beat Alan Shearer’s record of 36 goals in a calendar year. If he stays fully fit, expect Arsenal to challenge for some accolades.

No5.  Charlie Adam (Blackpool to Liverpool – £7 million)

The midfielder who was so good that Sir Alex Ferguson said his corners alone cost £10 million. A stellar year at relegated Blackpool earned the Scotsman a move to the Merseyside for £7 million in what is turning out a bargain buy for the Kop.  Adam has played all of 15 games in the league this season and has been instrumental Dalglish’s attacked minded Liverpool. Sitting at the base of the midfield, Adam’s spear-like passing has given Liverpool a forward thrust that has been lacking since the departure of Xabi Alonso. He’s been able to open up the game from deep positions, leaving the grunt work to Lucas and given others to license forward. Many thought the Scotsman would be a bit part squad player; recent performances suggest otherwise and he’s turning out to be a fantastic purchase.

No4. Mikel Arteta (Everton to Arsenal – £10 million)

The question on every pundit and critic’s mind was who was going to replace the void left by Cesc Fabregas at Arsenal? Many thought that without their inspirational captain that the Gunners would lack an outlet in midfield and suffer a dramatic fall. But the Gunners  have raised their game effortlessly over the last couple of months and fingers will be pointing to the Robin Van Persie, but its Fabregas’ replacement that is the man behind pulling the strings. While not a like-for-like alternative, Arteta has steady the Arsenal ship and is surely worth his £10 million from Everton. Sitting alongside destroyer Alex Song, Arteta has pulled all the strings from deep in the Arsenal midfield, resulting in Arsenal playing a more direct counter-attacking game. His coolness and experience has help guide the Gunners through their rough patch and up the table. For £10 million he looks like another Wenger bargain.

No3. Emmanuel Adebayor  (Manchester City to Tottenham – Loan)

He might miss some sitters, but Harry Redknapp has finally got the decent striker he has always wanted.  Establishing himself in the starting eleven Adebayor has proven to be a good grab for Spurs – more so from the fact that he’s on loan from Manchester City. With Spurs playing with a lone striker system; 4-2-3-1, Adebayor has ousted Redknapp favourite Jermain Defoe. He provides many things that Englishman lacks – strength, quick feet and also an avenue for an aerial threat and with 8 goals in 11 games; he has also gathered a great understanding with the players around him, including Van der Vaart, Bale and even Defoe when the two are playing. The one kick in the teeth for Spurs is that Adebayor is unlikely to stay around another year unless they pay the man what he wants.

No2. Demba Ba (West Ham to Newcastle – Free)

The Senegalese’s position at number three is due to the fact that Newcastle was able to grab the former West Ham striker for free – and it’s turning out to be a vital grab for the club. 11 goals in 15 games has thrown Newcastle into battling for European positions. Ba has added physical presence up front, but has also formed a great understanding with fellow striker Leon Best and Frenchman Hatim Ben Afra. He’s already scored two hattricks this season (against Stoke City and Blackburn). If Newcastle is going to keep going places they need Ba to be proving that he’s the Magpies’ best buy.

No1. Juan Mata (Valencia to Chelsea – £23 m illion)

When you pay £23 million for a player, you expect him to worth every penny; Mata is that man Chelsea hoped he would be, after a series of very costly blunders (Torres and Shevchenko to name a few). The Spaniard has been on form this season and has slotted seamlessly in Andre Villas-Boas’ team. Able to play on either side of Villas-Boas’ front three or centrally, Mata has been that ‘spark’ that Chelsea have been missing over the last couple of seasons. Three goals and 7 assists – most crucially in Chelsea’s match with Valencia in which the Spaniard assisted two of Drogba’s goals in the 3-0 win – is a decent return for Mata. At only 23 years old, expect him to be around for this Chelsea side for many years to come.

And the worst five transfers so far this season.. 

Yossi Benayoun (Chelsea to Arsenal – Season loan)

A harsh one to put in the ‘worst transfers’ basket, but the Israel’s move to the Emirates was suppose to spark a return to form for the once Liverpool and Chelsea man. He’s struggled to get into the starting 11 (this might due to Arsenal’s recent good form) but even when he’s been given the chance, he hasn’t shown the skills that once made him a superb talent. Maybe some more game time will give Benayoun some form, but at 31 years old, he’s near the end of his best years.

Jordan Henderson (Sunderland to Liverpool – £16-22 million)

The Under-21 England international has struggled to impose himself at Liverpool since his move from Sunderland. Problem is that, he’s cost Liverpool a lot of money and in modern day football, results are expected. His erratic form can be attributed to Dalglish playing him out of position, yet when played in position, he’s even when he has played in his preferred positions, he still has struggled. The good news for him is he’s still only 21 years old and has time on his hands.

Stewart Downing (Aston Villa to Liverpool – £22.5 million)

The player to sum Liverpool’s season so far: solid, hard work but no end product. Downing has yet to score or assist anyone in the 14 Premier League games he’s played this season. While Downing does offer a lot of spark and hard running on the wing, it’s his job is to get in on the act. It doesn’t mean it’s entirely his fault: Liverpool has dropped points when they shouldn’t and the blame applies to his teammates as well. At 26, Downing should be reaching his peak and is expected to help the team out when they are struggling. At £22.5 million he’s proving anything but a bargain and needs to start to perform or he’ll be another “Andy Carroll” for the Merseyside club.

Bryan Ruiz (FC Twente to Fulham – £12 million)

The Costa Rican was been looked at by many high profiled clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal, Juventus and Tottenham. Ruiz took a strange route and move from Dutch side Twente to Fulham thanks to Dutch coach Martin Jol’s connections back at home. Much was made of the Costa Rican but he’s hardly set the Premier League on fire. Two goals and one assist in 12 games isn’t a good enough return for Fulham who broke their transfer fee to get the player who was instrumental in leading Twente to the title in 2010. Adjusting to the Premier league is a hard for foreign players, but if Fulham are to scale the highs that their owner and manager want them too, Ruiz has to live up his game.

Samir Nasri (Arsenal to Manchester City – £25 million)

One of the sagas of the summer, Samir Nasri expensive move to Manchester City came after months of negotiating, with rumours of him going to rivals Manchester United. The Frenchman has failed to live up to expectations and given the hype, the inflated transfer fee and the fact that his manager, Roberto Mancini said that he “would like Nasri to play better” this could be a bad transfer for City. There is no doubting Nasri’s abilities, yet he has struggled to cement himself in the starting 11 despite many critics saying he would be City “missing puzzle piece”. His arrival has seen David Silva push himself to take the mantle of the team’s chief creator – something that many people thought Nasri would be. With City challenging for honours, Nasri will have to lift his game if he is to help City finally claim the prize of top dog. Or he could be another bust.

Photo by nikefutebol

1. Manchester City will benefit from this experience

Regardless of the wealth spent on this team, this is City’s first outing in the Champions League. Only a handful of players in the squad have participated before in Europe’s elite competition. This season’s failure to make it past the group stage is all but a learning experience for the blue side of Manchester.

David Silva, Sergio Agüero, Joe Hart, Yaya Touré, Vincent Kompany and Mario Balotelli just to name a few will learn from this experience in which they have to hit the Group Stage hard and full of running. The slight mistake can result in the dropped points, unlike the Premier League with inferior opposition; the standard is obviously higher in Europe and you will be punished. They will all gain valuable lesson after this failed adventure.

2. United are a club in transition

Hard to say it, after United’s ‘raging bull’ start to the season, but last season’s Premier League Champions have shown over the course of the last two months that they are team going through the motions of transition. Alex Ferguson has thrown youth into the squad with little or no European experience and this in the long term has cost them. Injuries have played their part no doubt, that’s just football and Ferguson knows what happens during the long course of the season.

The center of midfield is where United need someone with extra bite and the back four needs consistency. Ferguson will need time to marshal the troops to form a formidable unit, but a United team in transition is still a dangerous prospect and shouldn’t be underestimated.

3. David Silva is what makes City click

There is no questioning Silva worth to City. He’s been the stand out player this season: setting up goals, providing that devastating link from the midfield to the front line and even getting the ball in the back of the net himself. However, it seems that there is a question of how valuable Silva really is for City. When he’s played, City has been unstoppable. He scored a sublime goal against Bayern and was instrumental in all their build up play. Obviously, it hasn’t been the first time he’s done this season. Mancini might have bought Samir Nasri to help cover for the Spaniard, but if they want to go all the way to the title, Silva has to be their man.

4. Manchester United need a world class central midfielder

If United had signed Wesley Sneijder from Inter Milan, like the tabloids had been reporting for over a year, you would have put your money on United making it through a relatively easy Group C. But he didn’t. This is where United have lost their bite and bark and it’s been quite clear to see that they aren’t the same as they were last season. Yes, Paul Scholes played less and less, but his experience, his leadership would of helped United in a situation like this. The young players would have learned from the man who’s been United’s pin in the center for over a decade.

The fact that Ferguson has to rely on 36 year old Ryan Giggs and youngster Tom Cleverly shows United are lacking personnel. Anderson doesn’t offer anything in terms of spark or creativity; Darren Fletcher is more suited to doing the grunt work; Phil Jones isn’t a central midfielder by nature and Michael Carrick has been off form for a while now. Signing a world class midfielder in January might be difficult, but its clear Ferguson will need to strengthen for next season.

1. Drogba is still the man for Chelsea

Andre Villas-Boas’ (AVB) arrival meant Chelsea were going for a new look this season – in players and style. Youth would be the key; the oldies would be slowly ousted out and AVB’s attacking style will be implemented. Torres was supposed to be the man to signify the change at Stamford Bridge. Yet, it’s old war-horse Drogba that’s leading the line. Regardless of the changes around him, Drogba is still Chelsea’s man for the biggest occasions, pulling them out of the frying pan when required. Like last weekend’s performance at Newcastle and Tuesday night’s starring role, Drogba is still valuable to the Blues.

2. The bench is where Lampard might be this season

AVB’s message that this team will be his is best epitomised by the exclusion of Super Frank Lampard in his important clash. Raul Meireles was chosen ahead of him, showing that despite his ability to read the game, his eye for goals and experience, Lampard is no longer guaranteed his spot in the starting eleven. No doubting his qualities, it seems that Lampard is hardly being missed. Once key creator in the side, that mantle has moved to Juan Mata, with his vibrancy and support from midfield being replaced by a vastly improved Ramires means Lampard could be struggling with game time this season. This might hinder his chances for England’s squad for Euro 2012.

3. Romeu starting to show his qualities

Oriel Romeu’s place in the team looks to be assured with another fine performance. The manager’s trust in the former Barcelona boy is clearly evident, when the substitution of Obi Mikel came around to provide more solidity in midfield and Ramires was replaced instead of him. Romeu was excellent in breaking down Valencia’s attacks and his distribution provided a base for Chelsea to settle on. A few “Mikel moments” in which he almost lost possession in key areas can’t deter an otherwise solid performance for the youngster. AVB seems to have found the man to fulfil the “Makelele” role that Chelsea relies on.

4. Old Chelsea still around.

After the enthralling first half Chelsea settled for conservatism and discipline in the second half. AVB went back to the days of Mourinho and Ancelotti, scrapping his high pressing the midfield tactic, and instead settling on defending deep and playing on the counter with long balls played to Drogba – something he’s used to. Mata and Sturridge’s were fantastic on the flanks providing the link from defence. They got the victory they needed and despite a “new Chelsea”, the “Old Chelsea” is still around – and clearly a Plan B for AVB.

With one more friendly match to play, Fabio Capello has to decide on whom to take on his 23 man squad to Euro 2012. And with several questions to answer, including whether to take the suspended Wayne Rooney or should John Terry still be captain amidst racism allegations, Capello has got a very difficult task ahead of him.

Below is what I believe Capello’s squad selection should be:

GoalKeepers (Joe Hart, Scott Carson and Rob Green)
In Joe Hart, England finally have a superior world class keeper to marshal the backline, since the days of David Seaman. First choice at Manchester City and for the national team, Hart is the one player guaranteed his position in the tournament, offering quick reflexes, aerial presence and sound positioning. The dilemma that faces Capello is who to take as back up, in case the worst happens and Hart is injured. With Scott Carson earning a call up to the Spain and Sweden friendlies, it seems the Bursapor keeper will be in the squad, as well as Rob Green; who while not a fantastic back up, does offer experience in the role.

Defenders (John Terry, Gary Cahill, Joleon Lescott, Phil Jagielka, Ashley Cole, Glen Johnson, Chris Smalling, and Phil Jones)
Two defenders are guaranteed on Capello’s list: John Terry and Ashley Cole. While they may not be everyone’s cup of tea, they are consistent for the national team and are favourites of Capello. The problem is to find a partner for Terry and a permanent player for the right flank. The most likely option for centre back, would be Gary Cahill, who has had some successful results and can be the ball-playing defender to Terry’s no-nonsense defending. Both Joleon Lescott and Phil Jagielka can stake a claim in the squad; with Rio Ferdinand on the outer, after fading fast due to the injuries and club form.

In Ashley Cole, England has one of best consistent full back in the world. His place is assured but Capello does have other options at left back including, Leighton Baines, Stephen Warnock or Kieran Gibbs. But with defensive places limited, Capello would most like select Lescott, as he is more than capable in playing at left back. Right back, is where the problem lies for Capello. Glen Johnson has been favoured over the last couple of season, even though Manchester City’s Michal Richards has been more consistent. Manchester United duo, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are also most like be called up. Smalling has been in good form at right back, and can replace and Phil Jones’ versatility might prove useful if injury should befall the backline.

Midfielders (Scott Parker, Frank Lampard, Gareth Barry, James Milner, Jack Wilshere and Steve Gerrard)
Capello had opted for functional players in his three man midfield of late. Scott Parker, after some solid displays will start and can provide great cover ahead of the back four. Frank Lampard is another Capello favourite, who after being criticised for a poor start to the season has come back to top form. Lampard’s economic use of the ball, his ability to score from midfield and help out defensive earns him his place. Manchester City duo Gareth Barry and James Milner will most like be on the plane to Poland and Ukraine. Barry is a similar player to Parker and one that Capello loves. Milner may lack the finesse of his more  of his more creative peers, but his versatility (out wide or tucked in midfield) and professionalism make him guaranteed his selection.

Yet, Capello needs some more creativity in his midfield, to supply the forward line. In my guess, Jack Wilshere and Steve Gerrard would be selected. While, they may both be injured and may not return to till 2012, they are key players for Capello. Wilshere, if fit, will be a starter, his verve and attacking qualities are what England need. Gerrard is a tricky one for Capello; if he can get some games under his belt, as well as keeping his pace and is able to play off the lone striker (as Rooney is out) Gerrard will be on that plane. His experience in major tournaments, not in a performance aspect, can help the squad.

Forwards (Wayne Rooney, Darren Bent, Daniel Sturridge, Theo Walcott, Andy Carroll and Ashley Young)
Capello’s biggest problem ahead of the tournament lies in the front line. With so many options available to the Italian, Capello has to choose wisely on who he wants, but the biggest headache of all, lies whether or not he takes Wayne Rooney. Rooney is one of England’s better players, but being suspended for the opening group stage is a concern. My guess is that Capello will take Rooney, and assuming England overcomes the group stage, Rooney will be in the starting line; he’s far too important for the team and he should be fresh and fit, however the lack of match practice is an issue.

The question though, lies with who to cover for Rooney? The best bet would be, surprising, Darren Bent. Known for his burst of space and finding space in the box; Bent provides decent cover and more importantly is a consistent goal threat. Another option is Andy Carroll. Putting Carroll up front will result in England going direct and playing the long ball. He is a nightmare for defenders, big, strong and able to hold them hold, he can be England’s plan B if they are down and need a result. Chelsea starlet Daniel Sturridge is another who has been in great form this season. Able to play on either side on the front three, as well as leading the line, Sturridge would be valuable addition to the squad.

Theo Walcott has slowly found his feet over the past year and so. While at times, he has struggled for consistency at the highest level, Walcott has the pace to burn and can cause left backs a lot of problems. So to, Ashley Young. Able to play, left, right and centre, Young offers versatility up front for England. He, like Walcott has pace, and probably is more efficient with his delivery from the flanks.

England’s Probable XI for the first group game:
Hart; Johnson, Terry, Cahill, Cole; Wilshere, Parker, Lampard; Walcott, Bent, Young.

It seemed for so long that Arsene Wenger just didn’t seem to know what was wrong with his Arsenal team. For the past six seasons, it was clearly obvious to fans and viewers that Arsenal had no Plan B to their attacking game; They lacked experience, bite in midfield, a defensive rock at the back and no squad depth. Was it the fans that were blinded to the talent that only Wenger could see? Or was it Wenger having too much pride to admit he was wrong?

Come 2011, a dramatic fall from grace; from fighting on four fronts, the Gunners fell hard and off the rails. Losing the League Cup to Birmingham, getting knocked out of Europe by Spanish nemesis Barcelona, likewise by Manchester United in the FA Cup and winning only 2 games in the last 10 Premier League games. Summer arrived, so did the sagas: Fabregas to Barcelona, Nasri to Manchester City. Fans feared the worst as they might lose their two best players. Wenger however, didn’t. He went about his business, saying that the duo were committed to the club. Was he so blind to see that Fabregas wanted to return to his home club and Nasri wanted to play for a winning team?

They left and then came the last day transfer deals: Per Mertesacker, Mikel Arteta, Andre Santos and Park Chu-Young came in. Everyone criticized Wenger, saying that he hadn’t replaced Fabregas and Nasri with players of the same quality. Yet, he did something that we didn’t expect: he learned his lessons from the previous seasons and now it’s paying dividends.

Arsenal’s recent run of form, 9 wins from 11 games, has coincided with Wenger’s recent change in tactics, playing style and obviously the introduction of the new recruits. In term of tactics and style, Wenger has stuck to his default 4-3-3: the target man, supported by strikers/wingers on both sides that come in to support; three in middle, with two creators and one anchor man and finally the back four; one sweeper, one ball-playing centre back  and supporting full backs who get forward. So what’s the difference? Simply, when Arsenal had Fabregas and Nasri, they were a possession based team, but with the lost of these two players, Arsenal has gone for a more direct style of play. With wingers Theo Walcott, Gervinho and Arshavin having immense speed, Arsenal have defended deeper than usual, and when they have the ball, they launch counter attacks. As reported in ZonalMarking.com this style of play was most evitable in Chelsea game, in which they won 5-3.

Wenger has recently admitted that he has sacrificed his team’s attacking gung-ho style in the search for results. Has Wenger really learned from the past? “I would say we are a bit more controlled and less cavalier,” Wenger said on Arsenal’s official website. “We are less adventurous when the job is done, I must say. Overall, I would say it is a more mature attitude. We were more functional, we did the job properly, with quality and with seriousness.” It seems Wenger has realised that Arsenal needed a bit more substance to their style and winning is key.

The change in style and tactics is due to new recruits and they have stood out, but it’s not just in what they have done but the type of player they are and the experience they offer. Per Mertesacker is a German international, named the “the defence pole”. Standing at 6 ft 6, he is imposing and provides height in the backline, something Wenger has failed to address over the years. More importantly, while not a vocal leader at the back, Wenger has said: ”He is a good organiser as well, he understands the game, he is an intelligent player”.

The signing of Arteta, while not a like for like replacement for Fabregas, offers something different to his fellow Spaniard. Fabregas played behind the attacking three, while Arteta plays a deeper in the midfield and whose primary task is to quickly get the ball to Walcott, Gervinho and Aaron Ramsey, who has taken the creator role of Fabregas. Arteta’s arrival has led to Arsenal’s more direct style of play and also lightens the load of the creative task of Ramsey and when he returns, Jack Wilshere. Wenger seems to have understood that Arsenal has needed an experienced individual in the centre of midfield, and the Arteta signing proved that.

New signings Gervinho and Park Chu-Young add other attacking options for the Gunners. Santos replaces the departed Gael Clichy and even though, his attacking abilities are noticeable, he does have to improve his defending, but he has been given the trust of Wenger. Even though he has rarely featured this season, on loan from Chelsea, Yossi Benayoun still has a part to play for the Gunners; his guile and creative can help this season. “His experience can make a big difference at some stage,” Wenger has said.

Still, Wenger has stuck by his principles by signing young promising players such as Carl Jenkinson, Ryo Miyaichi, Costa Rican Joel Campbell and English starlet Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. Jenkinson has been given a decent run in the team, due to Sagna’s injury and while it has taken him time, he has settled into the role. While Oxlade-Chamberlain has shown glimpses of great potential, even scoring on his Champions League debut, he is one to look out for.

Wenger has finally learned from his past mistakes and Arsenal are on the rise. They have a long way to go: they are still battling to get into the top four, not least challenging for the Premier League title. They are still in the League Cup (where they face off against Manchester City), need one more point to progress to the next round of the Champions League and the FA Cup has yet to start.

The change in Wenger’s methods has helped Arsenal dramatically and hopefully there may well be a chance for them to break their trophy drought.

Sir Alex Ferguson. The name is etched in football history. He’s made Manchester United what it is today: a top club winning trophies on a yearly basis with a worldwide reputation. Twenty five years managing one football club is extraordinary considering that modern day managers are lucky to last one season with their respected teams. Thirty seven trophies is an astonishing amount, not to mention the platform of champion players that have played and been created under Ferguson: Steve Bruce, Paul Ince, Roy Keane, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Nemanja Vidic and Cristiano Ronaldo, to name a few. Many consider Ferguson to be the greatest manager of all time. With Ferguson looking at another decade at the club, there will not be another one like him. Or could there be?

Names enter your mind. Could there be another manager that could succeed Ferguson in terms of trophies won, longevity at the highest level and the rebuilding of teams?

Listed below are four managers who could be considered the ‘next Alex Ferguson’; it’s a long-shot, one in which we might have to wait another several years to see, but the potential and class is there to be witnessed:

THE SPECIAL ONE

Two Champions League trophies, six league titles, six domestic cups and one UEFA Cup in 10 years of a managerial career is an astonishing record. It’s one of the reasons why Jose Mourinho is called the “Special One”. You could say his record is better than Ferguson when he started his career at Aberdeen and his first years at Manchester United and he has the potential to exceed Sir Alex’s trophy haul.

His tactical nous; his man-management skills and team building is what makes Mourinho one of the best modern day coaches. In similar circumstances to Ferguson, who led Aberdeen breaking the Old Firm dominance in Scottish football, winning three Scottish league titles; Mourinho led FC Porto to European glory with a restricted budget, playing with a never-say-die attitude.

It’s Mourinho’s team building skills that take centre stage. Given unlimited funds during his time at Chelsea, Inter Milan and Real Madrid, Mourinho has used the money to build the teams he believed could dominate football. While there might be egos within an expensive team, Mourinho managed his players; both motivational and tactically. His transformation of Samuel Eto’o from striker to wide-right forward with a defensive role is a credit to his ability to get the best out of his players. His Real Madrid team is constructed in his way: Superb on the counter, dominant in possession, fiercely defensive and built with a winning mentality.

At one point, Mourinho was heavily linked to replacing the Scotsman when talk of retirement came up in the press. Will Mourinho take charge of Manchester United one day? Probably not, but ‘The Special One’ will push Ferguson’s trophy haul very close.

THE PHILOSOPHER

Messi, Xavi, Villa, Pedro, Puyol, Dani Alves. Just to name a few of what many critics and football pundits are saying is one of the greatest sides to ever play football. Barcelona 2009-11 is a team build like no other, playing dynamic football, scoring goals for fun and winning trophies by the dozen. A team like this needs a manager to ensure that not only do they play and win, but to maintain its dominance, to motivate this team which has won everything that can be won. Josep Guardiola or Pep for short, is the creator of this magnificent team.

Learning from his mentor, Johan Cruyff, Guardiola’s philosophy of tiki-taka football, characterized by short passing and movement, maintaining possession and working the ball through various channels, has been perfected to the extreme. His team plays no other way and Guardiola’s obsession with pressuring the team upfront has ensured that Barcelona bombarded their opposition’s goals, forcing them into mistakes and costly errors. Possession is a form of defence for this team.

What makes him similar to Ferguson is not just his style of play, as Ferguson himself is a fan of playing fast, attacking football, but his ability to motivate his players. After winning two Champions League trophies plus three consecutive La Liga titles, most managers would find it difficult to motivate their squad and make them win it all again. But Guardiola has done that. He’s been able to make his players push themselves for the team, winning games at all costs, not letting egos get in the way of the team (example being the selling of Samuel Eto’o and Zlatan Ibrahimovic). What’s scary though is that Guardiola doesn’t look like letting up, with a fourth La Liga and third Champions League title in his eyes. Being the iconic son of Barcelona, he doesn’t look like leaving any time yet. Another 25 years perhaps?

THE APPRENTICE 

While he is technically known as the ‘New Mourinho’, there is no question that Andre Villas-Boas could in fact become his own man. One season of top-flight football doesn’t mean you’ll have a fantastic career in front of you, but Villas-Boas’s start was sensational. Unbeaten in the Portuguese League, winning both the Portuguese Cup and the Europa League in his first season, Villas-Boas has all the ingredients to become a fantastic manager.

Managing Chelsea is another thing all together. But unlike previous managers at the Blues, Villas-Boas has been given the chance to construct his own team, creating it in his own way, playing a very similar style to Guardiola’s Barcelona. Old timers like Drogba, Lampard, and Malouda are making way for the new breed of Torres, Mata and Lukaku. His start has been impressive and Chelsea is still in the hunt for all major trophies this season. He has started from scratch, rebuilding the club in his own way – much like Ferguson did on his arrival in 1986.

Villas-Boas’s ability is to construct teams playing his way, but in a similar mould to Ferguson, managing his players. To his players’ eyes, he is their best friend, building close relationships so that they do anything and everything for their manager. But he is also known to (for lack of a better expression) give his players the ‘hairdryer’ treatment. Remind you of someone else?

The only thing going against this very talented manager is that he himself admits that coaching a team is “a stressful job, which is why I don’t want to be doing it for a long time.” Ferguson though also brushed away retirement in 2002 and Manchester United has dominated since then. Could Villas-Boas talk himself out of retiring at an early age and establish a team decade of dominance?

THE QUIET GERMAN

A long shot, but Jurgen Klopp, Borussia Dortmund’s manager, has the potential to be one of the best managers in the game. A bit early to judge, but Klopp has shown the skills and abilities to create and manage a team to success.

He became Dortmund coach in 2008 after seven very successful years at Mainz 05. His real success comes from managing Dortmund. Arriving at the club, he did away with the older players and instead focused completely on youth. Over three seasons, Klopp has developed Dortmund from mid-table achievers to Bundesliga champions. A one-off perhaps? Maybe, but Klopp had planned the implementation to give younger players a chance to impress; a very similar plan concocted by Ferguson, putting then youngsters Beckham, Scholes and Giggs into the first team. The success was instant, and Klopp has followed the same path.

The names now speak for themselves: Mats Hummels, Mario Götze, Kevin Großkreutz, Robert Lewandowski, Lucas Barrios and now Real Madrid player Nuri Sahin. It’s Klopp’s ability to successfully implement these young players into a formation and style which has lead to glory. In terms of man-management, Klopp was able to keep these younglings motivated and not let them crumble in the run-in to the Bundesliga title last season. Something that even great managers like Arsene Wenger has failed to do at Arsenal. Klopp showed great experience by even taking off Mario Gotze at one point last season because he was “too good” and didn’t want the media to put extra pressure on Gotze. Clearly Klopp knows how to handle the players and the media.

Faced with a rejuvenated Bayern Munich this season, and facing Champions League matches, Klopp has managed keep the motivation high. Dortmund are in second place behind Bayern and still have a chance to make the Round of 16 in Europe if they win their final two games. But with Klopp in charge, that’s possible. A long shot, but the potential is there.

As if not having a derby that grabbed worldwide attention last weekend was enough, English football fans will face another derby of sorts this coming round. While, it might not generate the hype of the Manchester Derby, Chelsea versus Arsenal is still a big game. In fact, it’s big for both clubs as they are teams are coming off a very different run of form, and questions are being asked.

Can Arsenal continue their resurgence and beat a “Big Six” team? Will Chelsea bounce back after their one-nil loss to QPR and get their title challenge back on track? How will these two teams face off against each other? Both are attacked-mind teams, basing their play on possession and finding the killer pass; both aim to entertain and score, and both play a similar 4-3-3 formations. Will both stick with their values and go out and bombard each other’s goals in order to win?

Under Andre Villas-Boas, Chelsea has been reinvented. Since the days of Mourinho, Chelsea has always had his DNA imprinted on the team. Employing his players in a 4-3-3, but a 4-5-1 without the ball, Mourinho’s team sat deep and played on the counter. Direct balls were pumped up forward to the bullish Didier Drogba, with speedy wingers Damien Duff or Arjen Robben feeding over the loose balls. Managers who have succeeded Mourinho have always struggled to change the team’s style of play.

But Villas-Boas has succeeded where previous managers have failed. His Chelsea team focus more on keeping possession and building play from the back. More so, as noted in this Zonal Marking’s article on Villas-Boas’ Chelsea, his team press forward more, closing down opponents in their own half. Able to incorporate new players, notably Fernando Torres, Daniel Sturridge and Juan Mata — players of immense skill with the ball at their feet — Villas-Boas’ has slowly implemented his style of play on the team. Impressively, others have followed suit.

Has it worked? Chelsea are third in the EPL trailing Manchester City by only six points. They could easily have been only three points behind had it not been for some unlucky decisions in the match against QPR. More impressively, with only nine men, they still dominated the game in possession and came close to getting the equaliser. The performance showed guts and determination; a willingness to never give up, regardless of the circumstances. Even when they haven’t peaked they still managed to sweep pass their opponents, most notably games against Swansea (4-1), Bolton (5-1) and Everton (3-1).

Arsenal, on the other hand, have been getting the results the hard way. Arsene Wenger’s boys are known for being the most entertaining team of the league. However, after their well publicised summer of discontent and terrible start, they having been grinding out victories – minus the tiki-taka style.

The Gunners have won seven of their past eight games, winning by two goals or more on three occasions (Stoke 3-1; Bolton 3-0; Shrewsbury Town 3-1). The other victories have been grinded out by one goal margins. Is this a good thing for Arsenal? Yes. It’s the three points that matter at the end of the day. Arsenal have, recently, never been known for grinding out victories, so the latest resurgence has shown that they have that belief and confidence to do to what it takes to win.

This is impressive considering Wenger has had to reshape the squad with new players. Mikel Arteta and Gervinho have grown into their roles, but more importantly Per Mertesacker has added grunt and height in the defence. However, the defense still remains Arsenal’s key weakness. They have only kept two clean sheets in the last eight matches, against Marseille (1-0) and Bolton (3-0) and five clean sheets this season. The goals they have conceded have been in typical Arsenal fashion: lapses of concentration and poor marking at set-pieces.

Arsenal’s run has coincided with captain Robin van Persie’s blistering form. Seven goals in nine Premier League matches this season has proven this, especially in the last two matches (Sunderland and Stoke) where he scored twice to see the Gunners through to victory. He is Arsenal’s talisman this season. With Walcott struggling to find his feet, Arshavin blowing hot and cold and Chamakh losing all ability to score, Arsenal will need van Persie to be at his best against Chelsea.

But how will they line up against each other? Expect Villas-Boas to stick to his 4-3-3 formation, with Torres expected to start at the tip of the forward three. The loss of Drogba will hurt as his scoring record against Arsenal (13 goals in 14 matches) is sensational and the Gunners have never been able to cope with him. Sturridge will be shifted to the right for support; with Mata coming in on the left. It won’t be a surprise if Villas-Boas throws in Romelu Lukaku during the game, as his strength will be a problem for the Gunners’ backline. Obi Mikel will anchor the midfield with both Frank Lampard and Raul Meireles supporting him. John Terry, along with David Luiz, Ashley Cole and Jose Bosingwa to add both steel and drive from the backline.

For Arsenal, the problem lies in defense. Vermaelen is fully fit, but the question is whether Wenger would play him. Historically, Wenger rushes players back when there’s a big game. He’ll probably start at right back, with Mertesacker and Koscielny in the centre and Andre Santos on the left. Wenger will continue with his 4-3-3 line up, or 4-5-1 without the ball pushing his wingers – Gervinho and Walcott for their speed – out wide to cover Chelsea’s overlapping full-backs. But the battle will be for midfield: Song is a starter and will do the ‘Makelele role’ with Ramsey and Arteta providing the creative spark and the duties of retaining possession. Expect Arshavin and possibly Park to come in if the Gunners need to find that goal.

The theory is that with both sides’ desire to play attacking football, this should be fascinating spectacle. Hopefully Villas-Boas and Wenger remain true to their beliefs and play their game. If Chelsea press high and bombard Arsenal, they’ll go on to win. If the Gunners can remain tight at the back, there is a chance they can be victorious. Chelsea versus Arsenal have had some classics over the years. Hopefully there is another epic battle in store this weekend. 

Chelsea Line up (4-3-3): Cech; Bosingwa, Terry, Luiz, Cole; Lampard, Obi Mikel, Meireles; Sturridge, Torres, Mata

Arsenal Line up (4-3-3): Szczesny; Vermaelen, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Santos; Ramsey, Song, Arteta; Walcott, Van Persie, Gervinho

Renewed interest in Serie A has finally reached the ears and eyes of glass towered TV execs in London with the appearance English football icon David Beckham playing in the red and black of AC Milan this winter. Even though Chelsea favorite Jose Mourinho has resided in the same city since the beginning of September, it took the introduction of the English International to kick the doors ajar at BBC studios and broaden the narrow minded focus of English Premier League Only viewing, even if it is for just one day.

If you still find it difficult to find this one on TV you can catch it online at, Inter vs Milan LIVE Second Half Action

Probable Starting XI

Inter: (4-3-1-2) Julio Cesar – Maicon, Samuel, Chivu, Santon – Zanetti, Cambiasso, Muntari – Stankovic – Ibrahimovic, Adriano.

Milan: (4-3-2-1) Abbiati – Zambrotta, Maldini, Kaladze, Jankulovski – Beckham, Pirlo, Ambrosini – Seedorf, Ronaldinho – Pato

Ref – Rosetti

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LIVE Updates at Yahoo UK

Kaka will miss this encounter as well as compatriot Amauri who received a late call-up from Brazilian manager Dunga but was blocked at the club level by Juventus, as was their right to do so.

Amauri’s Juventus teammate Mauro Camoranesi travelled with the Italian side to London and will make a surprise appearance for the Azzurri. It is still unclear if Mauro will play today but good to see him back after injury and should he play he will start along side Bayern’s hitman Luca Toni and Villarreal’s Giuseppe Rossi both set to feature.

Four time World Cup Champions Italy will be hoping for their first win over five time Champions Brazil since the 1982 World Cup Final.

Probable line ups are,

Italy: Buffon; Zambrotta, Legrottaglie, Cannavaro, Grosso; Perrotta, Pirlo, De Rossi; Camoranesi, Toni, Rossi

Brazil: Julio Cesar, Maicon, Juan, Lucio, Adriano, Felipe Melo, Gilberto Silva, Elano, Ronaldinho, Robinho, Pato

7 out of 11 of the starting eleven for Brazil currently play for Italian clubs.

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Goal.com – Lippi: Brazil And Italy Have Changed Over Time
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double click image for video interview

Final Score At The Ibrox
Rangers 2 – 2 AC Milan

The Pros

I’ve had this suit for the last 2 months (courtesy of soccerpro.com) wearing it everywhere outside and inside the house. During my indoor training routine the suit’s lightweight construction and formotion cut wasn’t constrictive or caused me to overly perspire. 

 I was clearing snow from my driveway last several days, and surprisingly in -10 celsius weather the mesh lined pants/trousers stood up keeping me warm .  The pre-suit is a very easy and enjoyable fit never mind an attention getter with those wanting your opinion on AC Milan.

Lets look at presentation suit details,

• 100% polyester plain weave, ForMotion system,

  

• mesh lined jacket and mesh lined pants. The jacket has a funnel neck, contrasting panels, 3 stripe branding
• frontal zip, pockets on sides, straight top and trousers bottom, 
  bottom leg zips; Drawcord on elastic waistband,
• Adidas brandmark on left thigh;  embroidered Adidas logos
  embroidered AC Milan Club Crest on left chest and on right thigh, officially club licensed product
• embroidered Rossoneri knick on the back collar (very nice, has that Ferrari feeling)

The Cons

This review would have been a 10 out of 10 if not for two drawbacks,

• the price tag of ~$110 to $120US
• the pants managed to do well in both cold and hot temperatures but the fabric doesn’t look to be water repellent. Training in rainy weather would quickly become less enjoyable

Final Words

The Adidas AC Milan presentation suit comes in at least two colour variations (see pictures), and Adidas has also released  versions of the suit for other club partners including, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich.  If you are an active player, travelling fan or simply a couch potato wanting to support your team from home in comfort, take a look at the Adidas presentation suit or any of the other available SoccerPro.com training suits

If you are considering head wear consider the matching Adidas ACM Woolie.  This gear comes in several additional club designs and has a price point of $15.00 to $20.00US and it’s double lining has a softer fleece underside.

additional pictures to follow in our review section

Olof Melberg (pictured/Reuters) comes up big for Juventus scoring his first goal at the club, and rescuing a point after the Bianconeri fell behind to Lazio in the first 25 mins off an exquisitely taken free kick by Cristian Ledesma.

Earlier in the day scudetto leaders Inter lost 1 – 3 away to Atalanta. Surely this was on the minds of the JUVE players who gave up a rare opportunity of shortening Inter’s lead further.

Inter manager Mourinho takes the blame for dopo il K.O Bergamo (after the K.O. in Bergamo)headlines at La Gazzetta dello Sport this morning.

Elsewhere in Serie A, Roma would rely on a goal in extra time by Julio Baptista against Torino to hand the captial side victory and steal all 3 points from the relegation zone northerners.

Lazio vs Juventus Goal Highlights

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007 (actor Daniel Craig) spotted at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday

Matchday Results

Saturday January 17th
Siena 1 – 0 Reggina
AC Milan 1 – 0 Fiorentina

Atalanta 3 – 1 Inter Milan
Cagliari 2 – 0 Udinese
Catania 1 – 2 Bologna
Chievo 2 – 1 Napoli
Lecce 0 – 2 Genoa
Sampdoria 0 – 2 Palermo
Torino 0 – 1 AS Roma
Lazio 1 – 1 Juventus

The Adidas AC Milan 08/09 Presentation Suit brought to you by Serie A Talk in association with,

SoccerPro.com carries 330+ styles of soccer shoes in all colors and sizes. Find the perfect shoe to fit your style & budget – Soccer shoes & cleats from Nike, Adidas, Puma, Umbro, Lotto, & Diadora.

(click on image for BBC audio feed)

AC Milan midfielder Clarence Seedorf says he would be surprised if team-mate Kaka were to move to Manchester City before the end of the January transfer window.  Seedorf admits the Brazilian could leave the San Siro in the summer and has indicated in other interviews money would not be the only motivating factor.

Related Posts

Serie A Talk – The Anglo Angle: Kaka and Adriano Reject Move to EPL
EPL Talk – Manchester City Raise Kaka Bid To £243 Million
EPL Talk – Poll: Is Kaka Going to Manchester City?

Kaka said yesterday: “I am extremely happy here. I want to grow old at AC Milan.” continuing the player indicated he had already refused important offers prior to Man City and stated his objective is to become, in the future, the captain of Milan.

Kaka Highlight Reel

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In other news Kaka’s Brazilian teammate Adriano has rejected a move to Tottenham. The player’s agent Gilmar Rinaldi said: “There will be no Tottenham for Adriano, he will stay at Inter”
Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp was on hand at the San Siro stadium to watch Adriano play against Genoa in the Coppa Italia, and had flown to Italy Tuesday evening to prepare a move for the Brazilian hotshot after reports of Inter manager Mourinho wanting to unload the troubled striker.  These reports of unrest are conflicting with The Sun paper quoting Rinaldi saying,  “Mourinho has already said he wants Adriano at Inter and therefore there is nothing for me to add.”

Related Articles

The Sun – Kaka snubs Man City switch
Yahoo News – Kaka douses Man City transfer talk
The Sun – Adriano rejects Spurs move
The Independent – Ronaldinho rift at heart of Milan deal

This video is popping up over the net and you can find several high quality versions including one at the Gazzetta dello Sport website.  Simply click on the Gazzetta TV icon or view the Youtube version embedded below. 

Official Introduction 

I came across this little gem several weeks ago yet didn’t know how to work it into the site. After writing on Paul Ince’s demise at Blackburn Rovers under, “The Anglo Angle” it now fits in nicely as an English cross-over to the Italian game, or Christmas special for anyone wishing the return of the Sunday morning show Football Italia.

What you’ll see below is Football fan Elvis Costello  joining James Richardson on Football Italia April 30, 1995, discussing the weekend’s matches and the Fiorentina vs Juventus match they both attended.
 
Being a child of the 80’s, I grew up listening to Elvis his songs were a staple food for someone now understood as, an alternative music junkie.  Obviously you can understand how I was grinning like a Cheshire cat after discovering this clip on Youtube which I had never seen before and if you listen closely you’ll hear Richardson mention a familar name to Chelsea fans when he covers the scores of the day with Parma’s victory over Brescia.

This  current season there is no LIVE broadcasts of Serie A football in England and that is a crying shame.  Whilst the 3 million viewing figure of 1992 dwindled to 20,000 in 2006 for Football Italia, the show was loved by many and it has been greatly missed.  Comments attached to the video represent that interest and perhaps there is enough to spur a movement to bring back Serie A coverage to the country.

Here’s hoping football fans of the Italian game in England get their Christmas wish and someone in the glass towers of BBC, Skysports or Setanta wake up and realize the Premier League ain’t the only flame in town.

YouTube Football Italia video with guest Elvis Costello 

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There is a facebook group, Bring Back Football Italia for anyone wishing to join the cause and I’ll quote one member and viewer of the program who writes,  “used to watch this religiously!!!! as a long time Juve fan was the best program on tv, sat morn too gazzette football italia, bring them back 100%”

Looking for those last minute gifts for that Calcio loving family member?   Why not send a subscription to Soccer Italia magazine or visit the local bookstore and purchase such titles as,

Mad For It by Andy Mitten

Mad For It covers the world’s biggest, oldest and most famous football derbies and Serie A Talk will have a book review early next year covering the most notable chapters and stories documented by FourFourTwo magazine writer Andy Mitten. Order It Today.

Inverting the Pyramid by Jonathan Wilson,

EPLtalk – Inverting The Pyramid: The History Of Football Tactics. The first-ever comprehensive history of football tactics has already been critically acclaimed after being named to the short list for Sports Book Of The Year Award in England. Written by Guardian journalist Jonathan Wilson, the book is a must-read for fans interested in tactics.  Order It Today.

If you think your fan prefers something more visual, take a peek at Soccer Italia magazine.

 The folks at Soccer Italia magazine were kind enough to send out several samples, including one of their Soccer 360 publication which is primarily an examination of game and players across all leagues. 

In their bread and butter publication, Soccer Italia magazine, the coverage of Serie A is quite good containing team pullouts, high quality images and articles not only covering the current scudetto race but special features on historic events and past superstars as well. 

 The magazine also keeps a close eye on the Azzurri (The Italian National squad) and this season’s Race To The Finish issue featured, “Filling the void” an article which discusses the difficulties Italy is facing in finding an adequate backup and potential replacement between the sticks for elder statesman Gigi Buffon. 

I eagerly await the discussion, “Filling the void”, of the back-four in an issue not yet written. Clearly old-time security of Baresi, Costacurta, Maldini, Nesta and very soon Cannavaro is of major concern for Azzurri tifosi so come on Soccer Italia impress us even further with your relevant coverage of this great game.

From all of us at Serie A Talk a Very Merry Christmas or enjoyable feast day that you’ll be celebrating.

(thanks goes out to Mario at Soccer Italia for his help)

AC Milan 5 – 1 Udinese, what a welcome at the San Siro for David Beckham. Watching a brused, battered and make-shift lineup, no Gattuso, Borriello or Nesta (yet star-studded anyway with the likes of Kaka, Ronaldiho, Pirlo) the Rossoneri performed brilliantly in front of the newcomer, besting visitors Udinese all over the pitch, in all statistics.

Young Alexander Pato scored two while elder Brazlian and mentor Kaka also scored twice and finally the Dutchman Clarence Seedorf scoring the last of five for Milan off a beauty free kick from Andrea Pirlo just outside the box. The shot on goal was initially blocked by Udinese keeper Handanovic only to be redirect into the path of a charging Seedorf after hitting the post on the punch out.

Quote of the Day
Skysports – “I have always said that I would always miss playing at the highest level. I’m not saying that in America they won’t get to the highest level – it will take time and it will happen – but with five months off during the season I personally can’t do that.” David Beckham

hmmmm sounds like a move is coming…

Match Day Results
Saturday, December 20th
Lazio 1 – 0 Palermo
Siena 1 – 2 Inter Milan

Atalanta 1 – 3 Juventus
Cagliari 1 – 1 Reggina
Catania 3 – 2 AS Roma
Chievo 0 – 1 Genoa
Lecce 0 – 0 Bologna
Sampdoria 0 – 1 Fiorentina
Torino 1 – 0 Napoli
AC Milan 5 – 1 Udinese

Although Beckham’s loan formally begins December 29th the marketing folks at the club and kit sponsor Adidas obviously wanted the release of Becks in his new kit early as a pre-Christmas campaign.

for additional images see: Beckham In His AC Milan Kit

Beckham is expected to travel with the Milan team to Dubai for a post Christmas training camp that includes one friendly game. The LA Galaxy player will be available for around ten Serie A matches and two rounds of the UEFA Cup before returning to the USA in time for the start of the Major League soccer season.

The Englishman’s first appearance on pitch is being billed as the first official match in 2009 when AC Milan play away to AS Roma on January 11th. 

(all images courtesy of Adidas and AC Milan press conference)

Sunday evening on the occasion of the Milan vs Udinese match, David Beckham will greet Rossonero tifosi at the San Siro for the first time.  Don’t miss it, at the Scala of Football a great champion is waiting for you!  acmilan.com

Matches To Search Out, Match Day 17

AC Milan vs Udinese
Lazio vs Palermo
Sampdoria vs Fiorentina

Match Previews can be seen @ TLN Week In Preview

Match Day Predictions

Remember to check out Serie On Tv, the match schedule has been updated for Matchday 17

Always enjoyed watching Paul Ince in his glory days at Manchester United, Liverpool, Internazionale and of course appearances for England.  Scoring 72 goals during his career he wasn’t the most prolific but he had great pace and good passing ability and was of course uncompromising when tackling .  An additional attribute of course is the canon of a shot Ince was blessed with and it most certainly rattled the cages of quite a few keepers.  

Moving forward and almost reflective of his pace and power, Ince’s rapid ascendancy as manager to England’s top division has been prophetic.

During his very brief transition from third tier English Football, Ince would become the first black British manager of the English Premier League. However, unlike his on-pitch endeavours, the English ambassador to the Italian game wasn’t able to maintain the same stamina so well known for as a player having been sacked earlier today after winning just three games in seventeen, just six months in charge of Blackburn Rovers.   At the age of 41 Mr. Ince will be back and more prepared for the demands of topflight. It is in his determination as both player and manager which makes football or any sport so enjoyable. 

Related Articles

TheFA.com – Englishmen Abroad: Paul Ince
The Independent – Blackburn sack Paul Ince
The Guardian UK – League Managers Association demands patience for Ince

Canadian Comedian Russell Peters makes no excuses for working an anti-soccer rant into his act yet I wonder how making fun of Indian and Canadian football goes over with family and siblings. Have a watch and listen to Peters he’s bound to make you laugh at something so simple.

Russell Peters – Soccer Joke

Simply awesome weekend of football and what an incredible goal fest with 41 in total, that alone should put the myth to bed about which first-tier league is more attack oriented.  Juventus win against AC Milan and some unlikely candidates got on the score sheet with Georgio Chiellini and Massimo Ambrosini hitting the back netting.  Chiellini’s goal was quite amazing a header down and away, keeper Christian Abbiati had no chance. (see the goal highlight(s) below) 

Juventus vs AC Milan Goal Highlights

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Udinese in their showdown with Lazio threw away a 3 – nil lead. Scoring all 3 goals in the first-half the home team would allow the visitors back into this one after Lazio responded with three of their own and the match ended a draw after Christian Ledesma scored the final equalizer in the last 5 minutes.

League Goals
Serie A  41 – 25  EPL

Saturday December 13th

Team with the Final Word

Player with the Final Word

“It’s a lot for a striker, 250 goals (or is it 251?!). Even if they are not and should not be everything, because the team comes first of all. That is not a cliché, it is the only way you can win.”

Future Transfer with the Final Word

Making the news has been the rumour mill on transfers currently working at 110%.  I’m finding it hard to keep up with the many player names dropped as potential transfers from the other leagues to Serie A. 

One I’ve really enjoyed reading about is the Brazilian Anderson, (currently with Manchester United) who explains,

“I think one day I will play in Italy” continuing, “Your football is tactically the best in the world and certainly the most intelligent. Every player longs to challenge himself in Serie A. You are masters and everyone knows it, even those who are jealous.”

These are the final words in a fortnight of Italian football next up, Juventus vs. AC Milan and Matchday 16.

Werder Bremen vs. Inter Milan

After winning at the weekend in Rome, beating opponents Lazio by a score of 3 – 0, Mr. Mourinho has stressed to his players it’s victory or bust against Werder Bremen today.

So boisterous has Mourinho been he has returned to his old ways in revealing a portion of the game plan by dropping Starting IX names,

“I will be picking Zanetti, Julio Cesar, Nicolas Burdisso, Marco Materazzi, Esteban Cambiasso and Adriano,” Mourinho revealed.

Captain Javier Zanetti will equal Giuseppe Bergomi’s record of 117 European appearances for Inter and Mourinho has indicated he would have left him out of the lineup but the Argentinian wouldn’t have liked that, and so it’s a historic game for captain Javier.

In other action Roma have a must win match against Bordeaux at the Stadio Olimpico where the 2009 final will be played in May of next year.

Related Articles

Serie A Talk – Champions League Final 16 – Juventus Roma Inter And Then There Were Three 
Serie A Talk – Champions League Group Stage – Tuesday Results
channel4 Football Italia – Jose orders Werder victory
mcalcio –  Lazio 0-3 Inter: It’s Trampling-Time at Stadio Olimpico (Serie A Matchday 15)

Lazio vs Inter

Surprisingly Hernan Crespo played his part but required an injury to Julio Cruz to see some playing time while Figo and Mancini also made appearances late in the second half, this one was all Inter I’m afraid.  Mauro Zarate had several moments of genius and I’m in the process of finding some good highlights to show off his talents on the Serie A Talk blog, what ball control by the Argentinian. Ibrahimovic scored a fabulous header and the first by Walter Samuel wasn’t bad for a defender make sure you check out the highlights.

Goal Highlights

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Final score Lazio 0 – 3 Inter 

 Also this match day, SS Lazio has found a new sponsor even if it was for just one day.

 more on PRO EVOLUTION SOCCER moving to Serie A coming up in my next post. 

Finally, Genoa came out on top in the Derby della Laterna beating Sampdoria 1 – 0 by the singular talent of Diego Milito what an amazing transfer he is turning out to be.  Some top-drawer goals this match day I might have to post a Goals of the Week article later today, make sure to ferret out all the goal highlights on YouTube or elsewhere.

 Saturday, December 6th

Chievo 0 – 1 AS Roma
Lazio 0 – 3 Inter Milan
 
 Sunday,  December 7th 
 
AC Milan 1 – 0 Catania
Atalanta 3 – 0 Udinese
Cagliari 1 – 0 Palermo
Lecce 1 – 2 Juventus
Napoli 2 – 0 Siena
Reggina 2 – 2 Bologna
Torino 1 – 4 Fiorentina
Sampdoria 0 – 1 Genoa

Join the Discussion on Lazio vs Inter @ PuntersLounge

Interesting pairings on matchday 15 and the punters are going to have a tough time picking winners. 

Inter, Juventus and Roma have midweek Champions League matches after this one.  Roma must win against Bordeaux if they hope to continue and the other clubs will require points if they hope to maintain their first place standing in each group. 

Saturday, Dec 06  

Chievo vs Roma (watch LIVE on broadband)

I’m predicting Roma will carry the day against Chievo setting things up for an even better performance against Bordeaux on Tuesday. Chievo are coming off a rare win from match day 14 to opponents Udinese who haven’t been at their best.  Roma on the otherhand should be a different situation  having not lost in their last six.

Lazio vs Inter Milan  (watch LIVE on broadband)

Lazio faced AC Milan in the cup earlier this week (2-1 win a.e) and they used most of their regulars. No mid week game for Inter Milan but Adriano and Balotelli are out in the cold to join Crespo on the bench. Mourinho is again relying on Maicon, Samuel, Cordoba and Maxwell in defence. Chivu is fit so look for a second half substitution if Inter are leading, only Patrick Vieira is missing to injury.  

Sunday, Dec 07

Derby della Laterna  

Matchday 15 is home to the Genoa Derby a forbidden time to lose.  Genoa will have the advantage as they have prepared themselves 100% for this match during the week, while Sampdoria had to travel to Belgium for an important UEFA Cup game with Standard Liege.  Sampdoria can ill afford to lose any of their current games, and no doubt this derby is the highest priority for both clubs. Since the foundation of Sampdoria in 1946 there have been 78 official matches, generally played in the Stadio Luigi Ferraris which is the home ground of both teams.

Related Articles

Serie A Talk – Showtime in Genoa

meanwhile Corriere dello Sport mentioned Drogba’s call to Inter: “I am having the worst time of my career at Chelsea”

and how about these headlines from across the net,

AC Milan are reportedly interested in signing Flamengo’s talented shot stopper as they chase Bruno

Inter Milan quoted £20million for striker target – but it doesn’t look likely Drogba will be available for sale or rejoin his Portuguese mentor Mourinho.

More on Inter and manager Mourinho from Skysports telling how, the Nerazzurri won’t loan out Balotelli

channel4 Football Italia have posted there are sensational reports in the peninsula that Inter are preparing a bid for Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo. An additional article by The Telegraph entitled, Cristiano Ronaldo linked with Inter Milan despite Jose Mourinho Ballon d’Or blast

Finally, newly knighted Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas is also voicing an opinion and speculation on benefits for flight to Italy.  The Spaniard was recently quoted explaining should he quit Arsenal, he would pick the Rossoneri to join, 

 “I would undoubtedly pick the Rossoneri,” he confessed to La Gazzetta dello Sport. 

As debate on WHO goes WHERE come January begins to heat-up and as more pundits and managers add words to the potential transfer topic I thought a closer examination of several major players is required see, 

Serie A vs EPL In The January Transfer Window Who Will Win?

Will Serie A clubs gain the upperhand against their EPL counterparts during the January, 2009 transfer window or are marquee players such as Carlos Tevez, Cristiano Ronaldo and Didier Drogba set to stay put and play out the current season at their respective clubs?

Catania 1 – 1 Lecce
Juventus 4 – 0 Reggina

Sunday, November 30th 

AS Roma 1 – 0 Fiorentina
Atalanta 2 – 0 Lazio
Cagliari 1 – 0 Sampdoria
Genoa 1 – 1 Bologna
Inter Milan 2 – 1 Napoli
Siena 1 – 0 Torino
Udinese 0 – 1 Chievo
Palermo 3 – 1 AC Milan

Several shock results this match day or perhaps not so shocking once considering the intense midweek action. 

Palermo – AC Milan

Milan was mauled in Sicily with all goals in this one coming in the second half. Palermo manhandled AC Milan after the interval with early goals by Fabrizio Micoli (50′) and “El Matador” Edinson Cavani (59′).  Brazilian midfielder Fábio Simplicio added to the Palermo tally in the 80th minute taking a 3 – 0 lead over the Rossoneri.  Ronaldinho would score a consolation goal for the visitors with a converted penalty in the dying moments. 

After the match Palermo manager, Davide Ballardini, was questioned by reporters on the performance of his players and how it felt to defeat the visitors from the North.

“We played a great game tonight” said Ballardini continuing,  “it is a great feeling to defeat a team who are favourites for the Scudetto, in my opinion.”

Lineups

Palermo: Amelia; Cassani, Carrozieri, Bovo, Balzaretti; Nocerino, Liverani, Bresciano; Simplicio (Guana 91), Miccoli (Kjaer 87), Cavani (Succi 92)

Milan: Abbiati;Zambrotta, Bonera, Maldini, Jankulovski; Flamini (Emerson 57), Pirlo, Ambrosini (Shevchenko 57); Seedorf, Ronaldinho, Pato (Inzaghi 29)

Ref: Rocchi

Game Video Highlights

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Udinese – Chievo

Lineups

Udinese: Handanovic; Motta, Coda, Felipe, Lukovic; Inler, D’Agostino, Pasquale (Obodo 67); Sanchez (Quagliarella 61), Floro Flores, Di Natale

Chievo: Sorrentino; Moro, Mandelli, Yepes, Mantovani; Pinzi, Bentivoglio, Marcolini (Langella 72); Esposito, Luciano; Pellissier

Ref: Trefoloni

I’ll be watching Juventus vs. Reggina on Saturday and of course the big one, Roma vs. Fiorentina, come Sunday morning.

Should be interesting to see how Fiorentina respond after dropping out of further Champions League action mid-week with the defeat to the lads from Lyon.

In listening to post-match interviews by Fiorentina keeper Sébastien Frey, the Viola simply didn’t get out of the blocks quick enough, allowing Lyon too many chances early on.  Karim Benzema scored the second and winning goal for the visitors in only the 27th minute allowing the Frenchmen to cruise out the rest of match.

Serie On TV Update

check out our Serie A Talk TV page for updates on your weekend Serie A viewing in North America

Matchday Predictions

The Serie A Talk Team Predictions for Matchday 14 are,

(screenshot courtesy of Footbo social networks)

Hey we’ve got more new stuff at Serie A Talk with the Serie A Talk and Footbo Prediction Game!

Are you tired of just hearing pundits’ predictions? Want to prove you know your stuff?
Play the Prediction Game by clicking on the predictions tab above and join in the fun.

Atop Group A Roma have definitely turned the right corner with a renewed march toward this year’s Champions League final again possible.  After a terrible start to their domestic season and the shocking opening  loss to CFR Cluj in the Group stage, all is forgiven by Romanista fans with Roma’s reversal of the group opener beating Romanian side Cluj 3-1 Wednesday evening.  Roma will have to win or draw against Bordeaux in two weeks if they hope to move on but with their recent string of victories momentum has finally swung in favor of the Giallorossi.

Qualification to the last 16 by Internazionale was not as glamorous losing to visitors Panathinaikos 0 – 1.   Inter still sit first in Group B on 8 points. The second and third place teams in group B, Panathinaikos and Anorthosis Famagusta, meet in the final group encounter with the victor being the second team to qualify from Group B. Panathinaikos will have the upper-hand needing only a point at home to Famagusta in two weeks time to join Inter, yet the Italians now need a result, possibly even a victory, away to Werder Bremen or risk failing to top Group B.

Tuesday evening saw the first Italian club eliminated when Fiorentina lost to French side Lyon at home 1 – 2.  Juventus of Turin have already qualified for the last 16 and drew 0 – 0 away to Zenit St. Petersburg also on Tuesday.

The three remaining Italian contenders can all finish group leaders if Roma beat Bordeaux, Inter beat Werner Bremen and if Juventus draw with Bate Borisov in their final group clashes.

UEFA.com Magazine Matchday 5 Part I Interviews

Once again UEFA.com Magazine has supplied us with some fantastic matchday-5 player interviews.  Listen to Alex Manninger, Olof Melberg, Mohamed Sissoko, Luca Toni, Fabio Grosso and Sebastian Frey discuss matchday-5 results.

(click on image for video interview)

UEFA.com Magazine Matchday 5 Part II Interviews

Inter Milan manager Jose Mourinho gives his opinion on the performance of Panathinaikos

(click on image for video interview)

Related Articles

mcalcio – CFR Cluj 1-3 Roma: Giallorossi Back in the Driver Seat
channel4 Football Italia – We must learn lesson, says Moratti
AFP – Inter through despite Panathinaikos shock
Champions League Talk – Champions League Matchday 5 Preview

Fiorentina 4 – 2 Udinese
Inter Milan 1 – 0 Juventus
 

Answer to: Who Said that before the Inter vs Juventus derby?, #4 Ranieri, Cobolli-Gigli, Mourinho, Moratti

In the last eighteen head to head six have been won by Juventus with four won by Inter and the final eight have been draws making this a highly charged encounter.  Internazionale are given the nod by bookies but that won’t stand for anything come the final moments as Juventus have been known to finish off opponents in extra time.  Personally I favor the visitors Juventus they are in prime form and have returned Italian football to front and center in the European theatre with wins over Real Madrid.  When football fans unfamilar with Serie A make comments about those boring Italians I respond, “Serie A: Boring Italian football? Think again.”

 Pre-Derby Skill Testing Question 

Can you guess who said what? Lets see if you know your Serie A personalities. (the correct answer will be posted Monday)

the contestants are: Inter manager Jose Mourinho, Juventus manager Claudio Ranieri, Inter president Massimo Moratti, Juventus president Giovanni Cobolli Gigli