Mikel Arteta, Out?

Mikel Arteta, Out?

Football Opinion 3

On Sunday, Chelsea put on a dominant display against Arsenal at the Emirates, winning 2-0 in the “North London Derby.” Romelu Lukaku made his first appearance for the Blues since completing his $135 million move from Inter Milan, where he won the Italian league last season. Many predicted Chelsea would beat their local rivals handily, but what was shocking was just how poor Arsenal were. Having spent the most money of any Premier League side this summer, one would expect that this investment in the team would positively impact their performances on the pitch. This thought process couldn’t be farther from the truth. Arsenal now have lost their opening two Premier League fixt... »

Can Manchester City Retain the Title Without a #9?

Can Manchester City Retain the Title Without a #9?

Football Opinion, Tactics 3

Over the last decade, Manchester City has been one of the most dominant English football clubs in the Premier League. Backed by significant investment from its owners, the Manchester-based club has had a meteoric rise winning five Premier League titles in ten seasons, with three won in the last four years. Their ability over this timespan can’t be disputed, but why are people questioning if they have what it takes this season? What made Manchester City’s title win last season so incredible was that they did it without an elite, traditional #9. A pure #9 is the highest attacking operator on the pitch, also known as a center forward or striker. Their role is to hold up play, distri... »

Takeaways of “The Big 6” After Matchweek 1 in the Premier League

Takeaways of “The Big 6” After Matchweek 1 in the Premier League

Football Opinion, News 0

On Friday, it felt incredible flipping on the first Premier League match of the new season after nearly three months without English “football.” Now that “Matchday 1” has ended, I want to reflect on the big six’s performances to assess where the giants stand now that pre-season is officially over. First up, Arsenal. Going into this summer, it was apparent Arsenal required a handful of first-team signings to improve the overall quality of the side. Arsenal’s marquee signing this summer, defensive half Ben White, didn’t play well at all in their 2-0 loss to Brentford. Aubameyang and Lacazette missed the match due to illness, opening the door for youngs... »

Manchester United 2021-22 Season Preview

Manchester United 2021-22 Season Preview

Football Opinion, News, Tactics 0

Premier League football is back! Today is the first Premier League match of the season between Arsenal and Brentford, but most of the games in “Gameweek 1” will be played on Saturday, when Manchester United take on historic rivals Leeds United at Old Trafford. It’s been a marvelous summer transfer window for Man-United after bringing in two world-class players who walk straight into our first eleven. Jadon Sancho, one of the most exciting young talents globally, is naturally a right-winger. Rafael Varane is a top-five center back in the world and has won the most famous trophies over the last ten years with Real Madrid and internationally with France. A right-winger and cen... »

Should Paul Pogba Stay at Manchester United?

Should Paul Pogba Stay at Manchester United?

Football Opinion, Transfers 0

August 8th marked the fifth anniversary of Paul Pogba returning to Manchester United. These five years of Pogba have been filled with magical moments and stretches of utter dismay, which makes the topic of Paul Pogba a very divisive conversation amongst Manchester United fans.  Some fans believe he hasn’t lived up to the (then) world record fee United paid for him. Others think he hasn’t ever had the right pieces around him to live up to that potential. Regardless of where you stand on the Frenchman, what can’t be argued is his injury and consistency record, which has been less than adequate. In his five years back at Old Trafford, Pogba has managed only two seasons wi... »