So, we have signed Robin Van Persie this week. This is quite a big signing for United. Lately, the Reds have had trouble luring the biggest of names to Old Trafford. Often losing these players to more money or more sunshine. As good as RVP may or may not be for us, this was a purchase that was meant to state something. It says we can attract the biggest players, we can spend when we want to and we are here to stay.
As a statement, it is a pretty good one. It says all the right things. It reminds the competition who we are and what we will do to make sure we are the best. The other big thing this signing accomplishes is that it puts another big name on the field that can share scoring responsibilities with Rooney. This should be extremely helpful to Rooney and help is overall form. As far as the player himself, I think he is a good striker. I think he was a little on the pricey side. We also are not short of players in the strikers department. I am all for creating competition in the ranks but, sometimes the wrong message can be sent. That wrong message is being sent to Dimitar Berbatov. But, I doubt this is any surprise to Berba and I am sure he had expected or is expecting to leave this summer. I will be sad to see him go. He is a great player, probably the most underrated player in the world. I have not seen a player with the magnificent touch and sublime vision he has since Zidane. I hope that if he does leave that he is able to move to a big team where he will play. He is an amazing talent and true professional. If he does stay, I hope he gets the chance he deserves.
Still there other players this signing impacts. Tactically, I am still trying to figure out what SAF is planning. One thing is sure, someone will be left out. It is likely that the old master is looking to use the 4-3-3 that he used often during the 07/08 and 08/09 seasons. In this case it was Ronaldo Rooney and Tevez/Berbatov that he was implementing. This three pronged attack and was probably our strongest side in recent years. If SAF plans to use this formation, it will be the wingers that suffer. Will he continue to play wingers like Nani, Young and Valencia in a 3 man midfield? Its unlikely. Sir Alex will most likely focus on triangle in the midfield with players like Cleverly and Kagawa at the head of that triangle behind the three attackers. Of course, it is possible that Nani or Young could play along side Rooney or RVP. However Valencia is an out and out winger and unlikely to play up top in a 4-3-3. He could of course feature as a right back as he has before. We are lacking in that position and he has served as adequate in this position in the past. I don't think it allows for him to live up to his true potential. As our most consistent wide player, I would not want to place him there often. It will be very interesting to see how this all plays out. Hopefully there will be enough rotation that we will get to see these guys in some action. Other than that if SAF does stick with the 4-4-1-1 then the selection problems will be down to just the strikers. Either way we will have to wait and see. There is something that I am interested in seeing. I have this sneaking feeling that Michael Carrick will be playing more often at center back. Not just when we have 10 injuries. He played there some during the tour and has done well there. So it would not be the worst idea and it provide great cover if Rio or Vida get injured again.
All things aside the new season is starting and I'm sure Fergie is focused on getting hes trophy back. I would like to see United get some defensive cover before the transfer window closes. I am unsure if it will actually happen. United have plenty of fire power going into this campaign and I hope that we take advantage of that. We should be seeing some pretty exciting football from the reds considering the options we have. Fergie definitely has some selection problems to deal with but I am sure that it is a problem he does'nt mind having. Cheers to a great season!
Glory Glory Man United!
Saturday, August 18, 2012
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Adapt or die
This discussion of the Spanish style has been growing for some time and was bound to start getting some mainstream coverage. Obviously people are beginning to add up whether they like the so called "tiki taka" style of play implemented most famously by Barcelona FC and the Spanish national side. Recently even "genius" pundits such as Alexi Lalas as well as others are throwing their opinions into the mix.
Whether you approve of this style of soccer/football, there is one thing you should know. There are two versions of this "tiki taka" style we have seen from both Barcelon and Spain. There is the fast paced passes used in attacking an opponents goal. Then there is the more passive (and some would say boring) continue passing. While both versions usually see Barca or Spain keep a great deal of the possession, only one seems to be the style that is making these two sides two of the best in history.
I have seen both sides use use their passing game magnificently. They will dismantle an opponent's defense right from the start. They create space with dummy runs and then make quick through passes to create chances and goals. Its beautiful and utterly fantastic to watch. Then you have games like the two Barca played against Chelsea in the Champions League semi final this year. Chelsea's performance was spectacular. I have never seen such a strictly focus and determined defensive display. Yes, it was pragmatic and very anti-football, but they beat the best team int the world to make it to final of the most competitive tournament that exists. This is something that, I think, Barca and Spain do not grasp. Sometimes you have to knuckle down and just scrape out a win. It wont be pretty and it might not be exciting to watch. But your club gets the result it needed. I am not suggesting that this should be how teams should play. I am saying that teams like Barca and Spain have no plan B. They have gotten away with often because of their depth and talent. However Barca did not win La Liga this season. This may be why.
I love the Barca style. It truly is "the beautiful game". But, when things go south, great teams adapt. They problem solve and find another way to win. Now I have gotten a little bit off track but, I started this post back in June and I am finishing it in August. What I am saying is that this style can be used effectively and it can be used ineffectively. If the pundits want to discuss this and comment on whether they approve or not. It would behoove them to mention that when it works and Barca is turned on it is by no means repetitive and boring. When they get stuck in the midfield and around the box and cannot find away to penetrate an 11 men defense that is when teams need to look to something else to try. But... of course they don't.
Whether you approve of this style of soccer/football, there is one thing you should know. There are two versions of this "tiki taka" style we have seen from both Barcelon and Spain. There is the fast paced passes used in attacking an opponents goal. Then there is the more passive (and some would say boring) continue passing. While both versions usually see Barca or Spain keep a great deal of the possession, only one seems to be the style that is making these two sides two of the best in history.
I have seen both sides use use their passing game magnificently. They will dismantle an opponent's defense right from the start. They create space with dummy runs and then make quick through passes to create chances and goals. Its beautiful and utterly fantastic to watch. Then you have games like the two Barca played against Chelsea in the Champions League semi final this year. Chelsea's performance was spectacular. I have never seen such a strictly focus and determined defensive display. Yes, it was pragmatic and very anti-football, but they beat the best team int the world to make it to final of the most competitive tournament that exists. This is something that, I think, Barca and Spain do not grasp. Sometimes you have to knuckle down and just scrape out a win. It wont be pretty and it might not be exciting to watch. But your club gets the result it needed. I am not suggesting that this should be how teams should play. I am saying that teams like Barca and Spain have no plan B. They have gotten away with often because of their depth and talent. However Barca did not win La Liga this season. This may be why.
I love the Barca style. It truly is "the beautiful game". But, when things go south, great teams adapt. They problem solve and find another way to win. Now I have gotten a little bit off track but, I started this post back in June and I am finishing it in August. What I am saying is that this style can be used effectively and it can be used ineffectively. If the pundits want to discuss this and comment on whether they approve or not. It would behoove them to mention that when it works and Barca is turned on it is by no means repetitive and boring. When they get stuck in the midfield and around the box and cannot find away to penetrate an 11 men defense that is when teams need to look to something else to try. But... of course they don't.
Friday, August 10, 2012
The Messi Ronaldo Conundrum: A Case For Ronaldo
Today in world football, the two best players are easily Leo Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Most argue that Messi is probably the worlds greatest player. He is a great player and wonderful to watch. However, whether it is because I am biased as a United fan or because I feel the need to play the devil's advocate, I often lend my support to Ronny for the world's best. Usually this is answered with dramatic arguments about his arrogance, diving or Messi's considerable talent. Sometimes it is tough to argue with Messi's brilliance. But, Ronaldo has brilliance too. Often it is not the same type of magic that the little Argentine produces but it is spectacular just the same. There are many different things that can make a player great. Both of these athletes have some of these qualities. How do you decide which qualities make someone the best?
Through out history the greatest players have most usually been associated with performing well in international tournaments such as the world cup or the European championship. Neither Messi or Ronaldo are known particularly for their performances playing for their countries. Both Messi and Ronaldo are better known for their performances for their respective clubs. This is probably better criteria for recognition as the worlds best player. While international teams playing eachother is exciting and usually dramaitic, it does not provide the highest quality of play. The highest quality football can be found in the Champions League as well as in the major European leagues. So, while many critics hold this fact against the two footballers, there is not much reason to do so. Figures such as Pele who criticize the two and sugest that they have a long way to go until they reach his level are stuck in the past and not worth listening to. These former players or pundits should be excited to see how the sport has developed and the beauty and competition both Messi and Ronaldo bring to the game.
Who is better? Many people are asking that question right now as both players continue to get better each season. As people, the two players are very different. Ronaldo is the celebrity. He is outgoing, cocky and often has a sense of humor. Messi on the other hand is more reserved. He is not known for being a celebrity and does not say much off the pitch. They are very different personalities. Often this is what attracts fans to players. Ronaldo is brazen, sarcastic and dramatic while Messi is more subtle. But when it comes down to it, which player makes more of an impact. Most often, fans answer with Messi. However, I see it differently. Messi is a member of arguably the best team on the planet. While Real Madrid are a one of Europe's better teams, I am not sure that they have the arsenal of players that Barcelona can currently field. However, Real Madrid currently lead La Liga by seven points. Mostly due to Cristiano's prolific scoring.
This is not to say that Madrid are a particularly bad team. It is just I have seen them perform quite miserably and still win because their number 7 basically drug them to the win. Messi on the other hand sits in front of the world's best midfield every game. As prolific of a player as Leo Messi is, I am sure that Barcelona would perform just as well as if another talented striker were in his position. I also find myself asking whether Mr. Messi would be as successfull on lesser team. We know Ronaldo would be.
While Manchester United and Real Madrid are great teams, neither posess the depth of talent that Barcelona currently does. Messi is a large part of that team but I am not so sure he is the difference. Ronaldo has so many aspects to his game. Ronaldo's dribling (while fantastic in it's self) may not be as fast or effective as Leo Messi's left foot. He seems to be the more well rounded player though. He is not only a threat from his idividual effort. He posses massive threats in the air as well as from a dead ball. His free kicks are some of the best in the world. He is also very efective in his runs off the ball. The traits that most set Ronaldo apart are his focus and determination. His work ethic is well known to be monumental during matches as well as training. Still, many question his attitude.
In my experience coaching and playing this sport, the players that were the best were intensively competitive and emotionally invested in their game. Sure they could be immature at times. This is not unusual. Look at the some of the best players in history such as Eric Cantona and Zinedine Zidane. They both were highly intense and emotional athletes. More importantly, look at their talent and their presence on the field. These men are special players who have a special ability to inspire their team mates to play better and harder. Ronaldo is the same. The team plays better when he is on the pitch. Not just because of his individual effort but also because of the his presence. As great as Messi is, I do not see him showing that presence. He is amazing with the ball at his feet. I look for more than just that. So to me Cristiano takes it. But hey, what do i know I am just a "stupide americane".
Through out history the greatest players have most usually been associated with performing well in international tournaments such as the world cup or the European championship. Neither Messi or Ronaldo are known particularly for their performances playing for their countries. Both Messi and Ronaldo are better known for their performances for their respective clubs. This is probably better criteria for recognition as the worlds best player. While international teams playing eachother is exciting and usually dramaitic, it does not provide the highest quality of play. The highest quality football can be found in the Champions League as well as in the major European leagues. So, while many critics hold this fact against the two footballers, there is not much reason to do so. Figures such as Pele who criticize the two and sugest that they have a long way to go until they reach his level are stuck in the past and not worth listening to. These former players or pundits should be excited to see how the sport has developed and the beauty and competition both Messi and Ronaldo bring to the game.
Who is better? Many people are asking that question right now as both players continue to get better each season. As people, the two players are very different. Ronaldo is the celebrity. He is outgoing, cocky and often has a sense of humor. Messi on the other hand is more reserved. He is not known for being a celebrity and does not say much off the pitch. They are very different personalities. Often this is what attracts fans to players. Ronaldo is brazen, sarcastic and dramatic while Messi is more subtle. But when it comes down to it, which player makes more of an impact. Most often, fans answer with Messi. However, I see it differently. Messi is a member of arguably the best team on the planet. While Real Madrid are a one of Europe's better teams, I am not sure that they have the arsenal of players that Barcelona can currently field. However, Real Madrid currently lead La Liga by seven points. Mostly due to Cristiano's prolific scoring.
This is not to say that Madrid are a particularly bad team. It is just I have seen them perform quite miserably and still win because their number 7 basically drug them to the win. Messi on the other hand sits in front of the world's best midfield every game. As prolific of a player as Leo Messi is, I am sure that Barcelona would perform just as well as if another talented striker were in his position. I also find myself asking whether Mr. Messi would be as successfull on lesser team. We know Ronaldo would be.
While Manchester United and Real Madrid are great teams, neither posess the depth of talent that Barcelona currently does. Messi is a large part of that team but I am not so sure he is the difference. Ronaldo has so many aspects to his game. Ronaldo's dribling (while fantastic in it's self) may not be as fast or effective as Leo Messi's left foot. He seems to be the more well rounded player though. He is not only a threat from his idividual effort. He posses massive threats in the air as well as from a dead ball. His free kicks are some of the best in the world. He is also very efective in his runs off the ball. The traits that most set Ronaldo apart are his focus and determination. His work ethic is well known to be monumental during matches as well as training. Still, many question his attitude.
In my experience coaching and playing this sport, the players that were the best were intensively competitive and emotionally invested in their game. Sure they could be immature at times. This is not unusual. Look at the some of the best players in history such as Eric Cantona and Zinedine Zidane. They both were highly intense and emotional athletes. More importantly, look at their talent and their presence on the field. These men are special players who have a special ability to inspire their team mates to play better and harder. Ronaldo is the same. The team plays better when he is on the pitch. Not just because of his individual effort but also because of the his presence. As great as Messi is, I do not see him showing that presence. He is amazing with the ball at his feet. I look for more than just that. So to me Cristiano takes it. But hey, what do i know I am just a "stupide americane".
Saturday, August 4, 2012
Other Options
There are plenty of rumors currently circulating concerning Manchester United's interest in Brazilian midfielder: Lucas Moura. The kid is quite a talent and he could be a real asset to United. However, the price tag, his current club (Sao Paulo) is placing on him is astronomical. We all know that Brazilian come more expensive than other nationalities simply because these players hail from Brazil. I don't care where you are from, 30-40 million is too much to pay for a 19 year old and maybe even any player. Of course there are other aspects involved in transfer fees such as marketing etc. That is not the case with this player. He is not established. He has never played in Europe. We know he is talented but he has not proved himself at the highest level. This asking price is ridiculous.
Now I am not trying to rag on Lucas Moura. I think he is a great player. Still, the market has become so inflated that big clubs such as Manchester United and Real Madrid should start looking else where when the asking price is just too much. As I said before, Some Nationalities cost more just because of their history with in the sport. This does not mean their aren't quality players of other nationalities. While some nations' players come with a jacked up price, some come as a bargain. If clubs begin to look else where besides Brazil, Argentina and Western Europe they can find quality players at reasonable prices. Regions such as Asia and Eastern Europe are perfect examples. Asia is especially worth a mention. Countries such as South Korea and Japan area more and more showing up at major tournaments ready to play. Both are producing more and more talented players. If more clubs looked into markets such as these they would spend less for arguably the same quality. Not to mention that this would force the estimated value of players from Brazil and other nations down.
These are not the only options for value in the market but, clubs should start looking else where if prices are going to elevated to these proportions. Some clubs have shown signs of sharing these ideas. Managers such as Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger have repeatedly refused to meet horrendous asking prices for star players. Even with grumbling among fans both have stuck to their beliefs that there is a lack of value in the market and started looking elsewhere for players. This may not change. Brazilians and other highly rated nationalities may continue to attract massive price tags but this is the age of globalization and other nations' football development is on the rise.
Now I am not trying to rag on Lucas Moura. I think he is a great player. Still, the market has become so inflated that big clubs such as Manchester United and Real Madrid should start looking else where when the asking price is just too much. As I said before, Some Nationalities cost more just because of their history with in the sport. This does not mean their aren't quality players of other nationalities. While some nations' players come with a jacked up price, some come as a bargain. If clubs begin to look else where besides Brazil, Argentina and Western Europe they can find quality players at reasonable prices. Regions such as Asia and Eastern Europe are perfect examples. Asia is especially worth a mention. Countries such as South Korea and Japan area more and more showing up at major tournaments ready to play. Both are producing more and more talented players. If more clubs looked into markets such as these they would spend less for arguably the same quality. Not to mention that this would force the estimated value of players from Brazil and other nations down.
These are not the only options for value in the market but, clubs should start looking else where if prices are going to elevated to these proportions. Some clubs have shown signs of sharing these ideas. Managers such as Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger have repeatedly refused to meet horrendous asking prices for star players. Even with grumbling among fans both have stuck to their beliefs that there is a lack of value in the market and started looking elsewhere for players. This may not change. Brazilians and other highly rated nationalities may continue to attract massive price tags but this is the age of globalization and other nations' football development is on the rise.
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