With the start of the Russian Premier League getting closer, it is now a good time to introduce the sides you’ll be hearing a lot more of over the coming months.
A natural start is with the reigning champions, Rubin Kazan, a provincial side based in the largely Muslim Tatarstan region of Russia, 700km east of Moscow. The history of ‘Rubinovye’ had been fairly undistinguished having never previously played in the Russian top flight until 2003. Rubin qualified for the UEFA Cup in two of their first three seasons in the Premier and this slow and steady progress continued, eventually resulting in successive league titles in 2008 and 2009. Their reputation was further enhanced in the group stages of the 2009/10 Champions League when they beat Barcelona at the Camp Nou.
The formula behind their uprising is far from the cash splash favoured by other clubs. Instead, Rubin have based their assault around frugal spending, a strong scouting network, and a manager who has virtually made wine from water.
Kurban Berdyev has been Coach since 2001 – an eternity in Russian managerial years. He is seen as a Brian Clough type figure, who has permed a collection of unfashionable players into an organised, winning unit. The squad contains few superstars. Captain Sergei Semak is the only regular in the Russian national team, whilst the club have opted against shelling out huge fees on imports. Last season’s star man Alejandro Dominguez has been sold to Valencia, but they have managed to keep hold of highly-rated Argentine defender Cristian Ansaldi and promising striker Aleksandr Bukharov.
As usual, continuity is the key and new signings have been low profile. Young Spanish defender Jordi has signed from Celta Vigo after failing to make the grade at Real Madrid, whilst striker Fatih Tekke has signed from Zenit St Peterburg. Expect more of the same from Rubin in 2010, minimum fuss, maximum impact.
The polar opposite of Rubin are Zenit St Petersburg, Russia’s richest club. Zenit were taken over by gas giants Gazprom in 2005 and have been on an almost continuous spending spree since then ploughing well over £100m into huge transfers, salaries and now, a new 60,000 state of the art stadium due to be completed in 2011.
Under Dick Advocaat, Zenit ended an 11-year title monopoly by the Moscow clubs when they won the league in 2007 and also went onto win the 2008 Uefa Cup and European Super Cup, but things have stalled since then. Following the league win, finishes of 5th and 3rd saw the demise of Advocaat, who has now been replaced by ex-Roma boss Luciano Spalletti.
Spalletti is armed with arguably the best squad in the competition. Vyacheslav Malafeev, Aleksandr Anyukov, Vladimir Bystrov, Igor Denisov and Aleksandr Kerzhakov are all regulars with the national side, and they are joined by expensive recruits such as Danny Alves and Alessandro Rosina. With such heavy investment and ambition, Gazprom will have their eyes on top spot, this season, Zenit look well equipped to deliver.
The rest of the chasing pack are made up of the Moscow contingent who traditionally ensure a stranglehold on Russian football due to their support and funding. Last season’s runners up were Spartak, the most countries most decorated club. The Myaso (meat) were the only Muscovite club not to be affiliated with any state regime and as such are seen as ‘the people’s club’. In the early days of the Premier League, Spartak dominated, winning nine of the first ten championships until 2001, but have not added to this tally since.
Spartak no longer dominate as they once did, their rivals have been able to catch and pass given investment, although Spartak themselves enjoy the benfits of being sponsored by Lukoil. The lack of recent success has led to an impatience to return to the top, and thus a trigger-happy board have hired and fired nine managers in the past six years. Michael Laudrup was axed midway through last term, replaced by club legend Valery Karpin who guided his side to 2nd place and a Champions league slot. Brazilian striker Welliton was the league’s top scorer in 2009 and his goals will be needed if Myaso are to improve on second place finishes in four of the last five seasons.
It was Spartak’s great rivals CSKA who took over their mantra as the nation’s top team at the start of the millennium. The Armeytsy (Army Men) were bought by Roman Arbramovich’s Sibneft and enjoyed generous funding to earn them the League crown in 2003, 2005 and 2006, as well as becoming the first Russian team to win a European trophy when they captured the 2005 UEFA Cup.
VTB Bank took over from Sibneft in 2006 and the silverware has since dried up. Big bucks were paid to lure Zico to Moscow but he was sacked last year, along with his replacement Juande Ramos – who lasted 47 days - in what proved to be an annus horribilis. The club finished a disappointing fifth and now have Leonid Slutsky, the ‘Russian Mourinho’ at the helm. Slutsky’s first achievement was to usher CSKA into the knock-out stages of the Champions League, but similar to the rest of the city’s clubs, their fans and owners demand to see them restored to top spot.
Lokomotiv Moscow are the club who most significantly retain links with their founders, still being run and funded by the Ministry of Russian Railways. Loko have always been around the upper echelons of the league but have just two titles to show for it, attained in 2002 and 2004. The club do not enjoy the vast riches of their peers and are hampered by having a develop and sell policy, having offloaded, amongst others, Diniyar Bilyaletdinov, Marat Izmailov and Branislav Ivanovic in the last few seasons. Former national Goldenboy Dmitri Sychev spearheads their attack and new Ukrainian midfielder Oleksandr Aliyev will add quality in midfield, but a sustained title charge looks beyond them.
Desperately trying to end a 34-year drought for a championship is Dynamo Moscow, who are the undisputed kings of comedy in Russia. The club were the dominant force in Soviet football for years, when they were inextricably linked with the KGB, but that power diminished long ago. Owner Alexei Fedorychev threw millions of roubles at trying to elevate his side to the top of the sport between 2004 and 2006, but the attempts backfired spectacularly. In 2005 the club raided Porto to sign Maniche, Costinha, Derlei and Giourkas Seitaridis but none of the players acclimatised to Russian life and abruptly departed leaving Dynamo to record below par finishes of 8th, 14th and 6th, before finishing 3rd in 2008. The instability returned last time out as they rolled home in 8th. Dynamo’s problem is they have lavishly, but unwisely bought a succession of big name players rather than men to do the job. The Policemen had previously announced deals to sign Cristiano Ronaldo and Luis Figo, both of which never came to fruition, and seem intent on trying to put the roof on before the walls are up.
With Fedorychev now out of Dynamo having sold his shares to VTB Bank, the side have taken a more cerebral approach to transfers. They have raided the financially stricken FC Moscow for four of their players and have also added Andriy Voronin from Liverpool and national team midfielder Igor Semshov from Zenit. The squad has a more complete feel, but a title challenge still looks as distant a dream as signing Ronaldo.
Friday, 26 February 2010
Inter toast with a vintage Portuguese.
The battle was won; the war is far from over. Except this was never really a battle, or a war. The chief protagonists were quiet and respectful, and the perceived grit and brimstone of both sides was relaxed to enable a fine, free-flowing game of football. Come the final whistle, Jose and Carlo shook hands, and I dare say retired to the Portuguese’s quarters for a drop of claret.
It was all very amicable given what was at stake. Two clubs, desperate to lift Europe’s top prize, ably led by two Coach’s headhunted to duly deliver. In three weeks time only one party will be satisfied, the other will need to reflect on what will widely be deemed a failure. Elimination would be more critical for Mourinho, and knowing this, he and his side put in a hell of a shift to take a slender lead over to London for the return.
As has been frequently scripted, Inter’s performances have simply not been good enough in the Champions League over the past few seasons. They have looked well of the pace of the sides who eventually win the competition, and have demonstrated very little evidence that they are about to break into the elite. So, has anything changed since Wednesday night?
The answer certainly has to be ‘no’. Nothing is ever changed by one result, one performance, one evening’s good work, yet what would have been most satisfying for the Interisti is that Jose Mourinho finally displayed the sort of tactical acumen which convinced President Moratti to bring him to the club. Prior to this clash, Mourinho had done very little in Europe with the Nerazzurri to warrant such a huge reputation and salary. Last season’s surrender to Manchester United was listless, and when faced against Barcelona this time around, il Biscione were nothing above timid. With the jury very much still out, Wednesday was judgement day.
All over the peninsula and certainly back in England, there are those Inter detractors keen to point out a few truths. It’s hard to deny Inter were on the back foot for most of the game. Chelsea had the majority of possession and shots, but that was only because circumstances dictated. After all, la Benemeata were in front for almost 80 minutes of this game. Penalty? Of course, even Walter Samuel and Mourinho said so, but this was just a case of luck going your way. The week previous, Milan and Fiorentina fell foul of fortune, did anyone really back against Mourinho to come up smelling of roses?
Things could have gone differently but you can only judge on what can be controlled, and Mourinho showed his worth. After taking the lead, Inter allowed Chelsea the ball in innocuous wide areas, surely a pre-meditated plan. The midfield quartet led heroically by Esteban Cambiasso suffocated the Blues’ lifeline through the centre, rarely has Frank Lampard so subdued. Again, credit the boss. And once Inter retook the lead, where was Chelsea’s response? With their main weapons on the night, Florent Malouda and Branislav Ivanovic pinned back by a three man attack, Ancelotti’s team were forced to bundle their way through the middle, only to be rebuffed by some excellent individual Inter performances. The astute switch to a bold front-three alleviated the growing pressure the Nerazzurri backline were likely to come under, once again, well done Mourinho.
There were many factors which resulted in the win, factors which Mourinho can and can’t take credit for, what he will be required to do is replicate that tactical nouse at Stamford bridge for the second leg. After all, one goal behind with an away goal is a decent perch. At home this year, Chelsea have seen off Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal – all without conceding a goal. On Wednesday the Premier League leaders were strong, they showed a quality and temperament to wrestle the game away from Inter for large parts and they are certain to do that again. Nothing has been changed by one game, and a collapse at the Bridge would drop Inter back to square one. However they’ve proved they can mix it with the big boys, and with another good performance, some smart tactics and a bit more look, the inquisitive questions will be heading Ancelotti’s way.
Another Italian clash with a West London side is now on the cards after Juventus and Fulham progressed in the Europa League. The Bianconeri ground out a goalless draw with Ajax to supplement a 2-1 away win, and will now have a chance to visit Harrods after the Cottagers impressively got the better of UEFA Cup holders Shakhtar Donetsk.
The game didn’t please many neutrals but new Juve Coach Alberto Zaccheroni was delighted with the clean sheet his side played for, “It was imperative we kept a clean sheet. I haven’t been here long, what I ask of the team is that they remain tight. Now we can read games in a certain manner and adapt.” Zac is still unbeaten in six games since taking over from Ciro Ferrara and has seen the team climb back into fourth spot and the all important Champions League places. Their new found resolve will be tested this weekend by Palermo, who along with Napoli and Sampdoria are tracking la Vecchia Signora for a top four finish.
Beyond the joy of the defeat of Chelsea, Inter now find their lead at the top of Serie A cut to just four points with the il Diavolo winning in Florence. The Nerazzurri visit Udinese with numerous suspensions after last week’s chaos against Sampdoria. Walter Samuel, Ivan Cordoba, Esteban Cambiasso and Sulley Muntari are all banned, as is Mourinho after his handcuff gesture. After Sampdoria and Chelsea, who knows what’s going to happen at the Friuli, three points would complete a week, that even for Jose, would have been a Special One.
It was all very amicable given what was at stake. Two clubs, desperate to lift Europe’s top prize, ably led by two Coach’s headhunted to duly deliver. In three weeks time only one party will be satisfied, the other will need to reflect on what will widely be deemed a failure. Elimination would be more critical for Mourinho, and knowing this, he and his side put in a hell of a shift to take a slender lead over to London for the return.
As has been frequently scripted, Inter’s performances have simply not been good enough in the Champions League over the past few seasons. They have looked well of the pace of the sides who eventually win the competition, and have demonstrated very little evidence that they are about to break into the elite. So, has anything changed since Wednesday night?
The answer certainly has to be ‘no’. Nothing is ever changed by one result, one performance, one evening’s good work, yet what would have been most satisfying for the Interisti is that Jose Mourinho finally displayed the sort of tactical acumen which convinced President Moratti to bring him to the club. Prior to this clash, Mourinho had done very little in Europe with the Nerazzurri to warrant such a huge reputation and salary. Last season’s surrender to Manchester United was listless, and when faced against Barcelona this time around, il Biscione were nothing above timid. With the jury very much still out, Wednesday was judgement day.
All over the peninsula and certainly back in England, there are those Inter detractors keen to point out a few truths. It’s hard to deny Inter were on the back foot for most of the game. Chelsea had the majority of possession and shots, but that was only because circumstances dictated. After all, la Benemeata were in front for almost 80 minutes of this game. Penalty? Of course, even Walter Samuel and Mourinho said so, but this was just a case of luck going your way. The week previous, Milan and Fiorentina fell foul of fortune, did anyone really back against Mourinho to come up smelling of roses?
Things could have gone differently but you can only judge on what can be controlled, and Mourinho showed his worth. After taking the lead, Inter allowed Chelsea the ball in innocuous wide areas, surely a pre-meditated plan. The midfield quartet led heroically by Esteban Cambiasso suffocated the Blues’ lifeline through the centre, rarely has Frank Lampard so subdued. Again, credit the boss. And once Inter retook the lead, where was Chelsea’s response? With their main weapons on the night, Florent Malouda and Branislav Ivanovic pinned back by a three man attack, Ancelotti’s team were forced to bundle their way through the middle, only to be rebuffed by some excellent individual Inter performances. The astute switch to a bold front-three alleviated the growing pressure the Nerazzurri backline were likely to come under, once again, well done Mourinho.
There were many factors which resulted in the win, factors which Mourinho can and can’t take credit for, what he will be required to do is replicate that tactical nouse at Stamford bridge for the second leg. After all, one goal behind with an away goal is a decent perch. At home this year, Chelsea have seen off Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal – all without conceding a goal. On Wednesday the Premier League leaders were strong, they showed a quality and temperament to wrestle the game away from Inter for large parts and they are certain to do that again. Nothing has been changed by one game, and a collapse at the Bridge would drop Inter back to square one. However they’ve proved they can mix it with the big boys, and with another good performance, some smart tactics and a bit more look, the inquisitive questions will be heading Ancelotti’s way.
Another Italian clash with a West London side is now on the cards after Juventus and Fulham progressed in the Europa League. The Bianconeri ground out a goalless draw with Ajax to supplement a 2-1 away win, and will now have a chance to visit Harrods after the Cottagers impressively got the better of UEFA Cup holders Shakhtar Donetsk.
The game didn’t please many neutrals but new Juve Coach Alberto Zaccheroni was delighted with the clean sheet his side played for, “It was imperative we kept a clean sheet. I haven’t been here long, what I ask of the team is that they remain tight. Now we can read games in a certain manner and adapt.” Zac is still unbeaten in six games since taking over from Ciro Ferrara and has seen the team climb back into fourth spot and the all important Champions League places. Their new found resolve will be tested this weekend by Palermo, who along with Napoli and Sampdoria are tracking la Vecchia Signora for a top four finish.
Beyond the joy of the defeat of Chelsea, Inter now find their lead at the top of Serie A cut to just four points with the il Diavolo winning in Florence. The Nerazzurri visit Udinese with numerous suspensions after last week’s chaos against Sampdoria. Walter Samuel, Ivan Cordoba, Esteban Cambiasso and Sulley Muntari are all banned, as is Mourinho after his handcuff gesture. After Sampdoria and Chelsea, who knows what’s going to happen at the Friuli, three points would complete a week, that even for Jose, would have been a Special One.
Friday, 19 February 2010
Where’s Lady Luck when you need her? Certainly not in Munich.
It shows what fine margins we are working with, that had there been some sharper finishing and officiating during this week’s European ties, then this News from the Peninsula would be taking a very different slant.
As it is, three of the four Italian sides in combat will have to overturn first leg deficits to prolong their stay in European competition, whilst it was Juventus of all teams, who saved face with a victory at Ajax.
Roma will be confident of overturning a 3-2 score at home to Panathinaikos, after coming unstuck in Athens, but the task is not so enviable for Milan and Fiorentina. Both will be regretting the bad luck which cost them results against Manchester United and Bayern Munich respectively.
Milan’s downfall was largely of their own doing. Not since United were ran about by Kaka at the San Siro back in 2007 have they looked so disorganised, and last years beaten finalists contrived to hand the Rossoneri ample opportunity to replicate that score during a lacklustre first half. Unfortunately for il Diavolo, they were unable to capitalise on the visitor’s generosity and were made to regret such profligacy when Wayne Rooney showed them how to do it.
Much has been made about the perceived gulf between the top sides in Serie A and the Premier League, however, the Rossoneri were more than a match for the 2008 Champions League winners, who appeared reliant on the outstanding Rooney to rescue them from an uncharacteristic slumber. What the match did further highlight however, is the relentless efficiency and knowhow the English have acquired in consistently reaching the latter stages of the competition – a luxury now out of Milan’s hands.
Despite dominating for long periods and appearing overall the better side, Milan lacked the ruthlessness and conviction to finish the job off. One cannot imagine United would have been as forgiving had the roles been reversed, and it’s unlikely they’ll be as bad at Old Trafford. Going the distance in Europe requires you to get results when you aren’t playing well. Playing well and not getting results isn’t conducive to prevailing in Europe, yet this trait has slipped increasingly into the Italian game over recent years, which suggests more of a psychological defect, rather than any great weaknesses in quality. This is a fault best attributed to Inter of late, and it will be interesting to see whether they can overcome the perils their neighbours fell to, when they host Chelsea next week.
Fiorentina on the other hand have every reason to cast disparaging glances elsewhere. True, they were a good second to Bayern Munich for long periods at the Allianz Arena but that would have mattered little had they escaped from Bavaria with a draw and an away goal.
The comically inept Tom Henning Ovrebo and his silly sidekicks have altered a Champions League tie once again. His dismissal of Massimo Gobbi was ill-judged at best, the failure to spot Miroslav Klose three yards offside was downright incompetent. Still, the fates of fortune have conspired against la Viola but that’s just tough luck really. Swings and roundabouts. What is more relevant is whether they have the strength of character to recover from, however it came about, this defeat. After all, a one goal deficit from an away first leg is not the stuff of Harry Houdini, and such leads have been rectified on countless occasions by sides that mean business. Ovrebo and his chums may have cost Fiorentina a draw in Munich, but at home, with only a one goal win needed; they can only blame themselves if they fall.
Surprisingly it was Juventus who put a silver-lining round the cloud with a well fought 2-1 victory over Ajax. So far on the continent this season, the Bianconeri had been about as much use as a three-pin plug, but they registered a second win in two games thanks to Amauri’s brace. Furthermore, la Vecchia Signora showed resolve in battling back from going behind, and scored two goals from open play – feats deemed unthinkable just a few weeks ago. Alberto Zaccheroni is now unbeaten in four matches as he tries to rudder Juve towards respectability, and possibly a bit of silverware this season.
His endeavours probably won’t be rewarded with a full-time spot on the bench past this summer with massive restructuring predicted in Turin. Last week we reported that Marcelo Lippi had been lined up for a presidential role with his former club, and il Riformista are speculating that Adriano Galliani could be considering jumping ship from Milan.
The Rossoneri Vice-President’s relationship with owner Silvio Berlusconi has reportedly deteriorated to such an extent, that he is considering ending his 24 year affiliation with the Milanese giants. Although whether such a stalwart of Milan would see moving to a direct rival is a viable option, it will be interesting to keep an eye on the boardroom comings and goings as two of the Peninsula’s biggest clubs continue their shake-up.
Looking forward to the league schedule, and Inter never seem to be able to put the race to bed. Having seen off Milan, the Scudetto looked a forgone conclusion, but since then the Nerazzurri have squandered points in three of their last five games, with Roma steaming up along the blindside. Il Lupi will fancy collecting all three points against Catania at home, meaning Jose Mourinho’s men will need to do likewise against a resurgent Sampdoria. The Blucerchiati represent a tricky task, especially if la Benemeata have half an eye on Wednesday’s clash with Chelsea.
Where do your priorities lie, Jose? We’ll soon find out.
As it is, three of the four Italian sides in combat will have to overturn first leg deficits to prolong their stay in European competition, whilst it was Juventus of all teams, who saved face with a victory at Ajax.
Roma will be confident of overturning a 3-2 score at home to Panathinaikos, after coming unstuck in Athens, but the task is not so enviable for Milan and Fiorentina. Both will be regretting the bad luck which cost them results against Manchester United and Bayern Munich respectively.
Milan’s downfall was largely of their own doing. Not since United were ran about by Kaka at the San Siro back in 2007 have they looked so disorganised, and last years beaten finalists contrived to hand the Rossoneri ample opportunity to replicate that score during a lacklustre first half. Unfortunately for il Diavolo, they were unable to capitalise on the visitor’s generosity and were made to regret such profligacy when Wayne Rooney showed them how to do it.
Much has been made about the perceived gulf between the top sides in Serie A and the Premier League, however, the Rossoneri were more than a match for the 2008 Champions League winners, who appeared reliant on the outstanding Rooney to rescue them from an uncharacteristic slumber. What the match did further highlight however, is the relentless efficiency and knowhow the English have acquired in consistently reaching the latter stages of the competition – a luxury now out of Milan’s hands.
Despite dominating for long periods and appearing overall the better side, Milan lacked the ruthlessness and conviction to finish the job off. One cannot imagine United would have been as forgiving had the roles been reversed, and it’s unlikely they’ll be as bad at Old Trafford. Going the distance in Europe requires you to get results when you aren’t playing well. Playing well and not getting results isn’t conducive to prevailing in Europe, yet this trait has slipped increasingly into the Italian game over recent years, which suggests more of a psychological defect, rather than any great weaknesses in quality. This is a fault best attributed to Inter of late, and it will be interesting to see whether they can overcome the perils their neighbours fell to, when they host Chelsea next week.
Fiorentina on the other hand have every reason to cast disparaging glances elsewhere. True, they were a good second to Bayern Munich for long periods at the Allianz Arena but that would have mattered little had they escaped from Bavaria with a draw and an away goal.
The comically inept Tom Henning Ovrebo and his silly sidekicks have altered a Champions League tie once again. His dismissal of Massimo Gobbi was ill-judged at best, the failure to spot Miroslav Klose three yards offside was downright incompetent. Still, the fates of fortune have conspired against la Viola but that’s just tough luck really. Swings and roundabouts. What is more relevant is whether they have the strength of character to recover from, however it came about, this defeat. After all, a one goal deficit from an away first leg is not the stuff of Harry Houdini, and such leads have been rectified on countless occasions by sides that mean business. Ovrebo and his chums may have cost Fiorentina a draw in Munich, but at home, with only a one goal win needed; they can only blame themselves if they fall.
Surprisingly it was Juventus who put a silver-lining round the cloud with a well fought 2-1 victory over Ajax. So far on the continent this season, the Bianconeri had been about as much use as a three-pin plug, but they registered a second win in two games thanks to Amauri’s brace. Furthermore, la Vecchia Signora showed resolve in battling back from going behind, and scored two goals from open play – feats deemed unthinkable just a few weeks ago. Alberto Zaccheroni is now unbeaten in four matches as he tries to rudder Juve towards respectability, and possibly a bit of silverware this season.
His endeavours probably won’t be rewarded with a full-time spot on the bench past this summer with massive restructuring predicted in Turin. Last week we reported that Marcelo Lippi had been lined up for a presidential role with his former club, and il Riformista are speculating that Adriano Galliani could be considering jumping ship from Milan.
The Rossoneri Vice-President’s relationship with owner Silvio Berlusconi has reportedly deteriorated to such an extent, that he is considering ending his 24 year affiliation with the Milanese giants. Although whether such a stalwart of Milan would see moving to a direct rival is a viable option, it will be interesting to keep an eye on the boardroom comings and goings as two of the Peninsula’s biggest clubs continue their shake-up.
Looking forward to the league schedule, and Inter never seem to be able to put the race to bed. Having seen off Milan, the Scudetto looked a forgone conclusion, but since then the Nerazzurri have squandered points in three of their last five games, with Roma steaming up along the blindside. Il Lupi will fancy collecting all three points against Catania at home, meaning Jose Mourinho’s men will need to do likewise against a resurgent Sampdoria. The Blucerchiati represent a tricky task, especially if la Benemeata have half an eye on Wednesday’s clash with Chelsea.
Where do your priorities lie, Jose? We’ll soon find out.
Thursday, 18 February 2010
Comrades, cash and corruption. Football behind the Iron Curtain.
Welcome to Red Review, a weekly spy at our footballing comrades in Russia. The status of the Russian game has risen rapidly in a relatively short period of time. Even as recently as the turn of the millennium, Premier League games were being played out in front of sparse crowds at large, decaying old stadiums. Now, Russian clubs find themselves with huge financial backing, and a burning ambition to dominate the European scene. So, what’s happened?
Before we dive straight into the here and now, it’s important to have a brief history lesson about what this vast country is all about, and how politics and economics have played such a crucial factor in shaping the game. The Premier League only began in 1992 following the collapse of the former Soviet Union. In its formative years, the game was played out against the backdrop of massive national upheaval. The iron fist was quivering as the country found itself in crisis, caught in between the trusted methods of communism, and the prosperity that democracy and capitalism were supposed to bring.
Financially the nation was in tatters, and naturally, football bore the scars. Wages for domestic players were low and the best sought to leave for abroad. Quality imports were difficult to attract, and as a result the club sides and the national team were making little headway. Overall, things were a weak imitation when compared to the powerhouse days of sides from behind the Iron curtain.
But all has changed now and a new era is upon us. Over the last decade and since Vladimir Putin’s reign as President, Russia as a whole has been privy to a huge financial uprising led by the privatisation of their vast natural mineral reserves. The country, in parts, has become very rich, very quickly, and similarly to Roman Abramovich at Chelsea, a series of Kremlin-backed Oligarch’s and gas and oil companies have decided to invest huge sums of money to kick-start football. If you consider that Lukoil bankroll Spartak and Gazprom provide the roubles for Zenit, the influence is not hard to spot. On top of this, Russian sides are also backed by Airlines, National Banks and state corporations. Money is no longer an object.
The league is now one of the world’s richest with massive transfer fee’s and wages being offered in an attempt to lure the best players and coaches to the country. A peak at the alumni shows a host of international stars being drawn to the east. According to the latest UEFA league coefficients, the Russian Premier is the sixth strongest on the continent, falling behind the might of England, Spain, Italy, Germany and France, but more importantly, it finds itself moving up and away from the likes of Turkey, Portugal, Scotland and Holland. The money men have high ambition and deep pockets, and have every intention to see this rise continue.
Much like the country itself, Russian football remains a distant proposition, still largely shrouded in an intrigue and mystique which is yet to fully make itself known. There are strong and persistent allegations that match-fixing and corruption are rife throughout the sport, which only adds to increase the appeal of this strange, colossal land.
To put the geographics into perspective, Russia is by far the largest country area-wise in the world. The land slopes vastly across two continents, and eleven time zones. An away trip could fall anywhere between a quick train ride away from central Europe, or a short boat trip from Japan, encompassing 17million square kilometres of differing terrain, climate, culture and ethnicity. The history of this amazing country is truly engrossing, yet a new chapter in its sporting dynasty is just being written.
The influx of cash into Russian football can be directly traced back to a certain Mr Abramovich. His purchase of Chelsea in 2003 caught the imagination of the whole footballing world, and none of the excitement was lost back in his motherland. A spate of investment came forth from massive corporate companies, eager to raise their profile at home and abroad. The aims were the same, to build the biggest and best football clubs they could.
As a result, the league has gradually gained in reputation and stature in recent seasons with CSKA Moscow and Zenit St Petersburg both lifting the UEFA cup since 2005. The national side’s showing at Euro 2008 thrilled neutrals and drew attention to the pool of talented Russian players of the generation. Just this season, in the Champions League, current champions Rubin Kazan managed the unthinkable and defeated Barcelona at the Camp Nou, and CSKA almost grabbed a win at Old Trafford. The improvement in fortunes has led the visionary Arsene Wenger to predict that a Russian club will win the European Cup in the next ten years. The future looks bright. Russian football has come in from the cold.
The Rosgosstrakh Football Championship consists of 16 teams and runs from March to November due to the frozen winter months. There is still a large Moscow-centric dominance with five of the most wealthy and well supported clubs coming from the capital city. Most of these clubs still retain significant links with the institutions which formed them years ago. For example CSKA are the club of the army, Lokomotiv Moscow were formed and are still ran by the Railway association, whilst Dynamo Moscow are said to be the club of the secret police. Although the influence of these affiliations has lessened since Soviet times, it nonetheless adds a further interesting slant on a fascinating scene. Outside of Moscow and the provincial teams are also having their say. Rubin Kazan and Zenit have claimed the title the past three years - ending an eleven year Moscovite-monopoly - and even a team from the war-torn Chechen province have lifted the Russian Cup.
As the new season draws closer, what can we expect? Well, like most things in Russia, on the face of it nothing is as straightforward as it seems. Despite the vast wealth, in the last week, FC Moscow have been withdrawn from the league through financial difficulties and Prime Minister Putin has personally stepped in to ensure Krylia Sovetov – the Soviet Wings – do not go bust. There’s never a dull moment.
From the politics to the players, the cash to the corruption, Red Review will fill you in with all you need to know about Europe’s fastest growing league.
Before we dive straight into the here and now, it’s important to have a brief history lesson about what this vast country is all about, and how politics and economics have played such a crucial factor in shaping the game. The Premier League only began in 1992 following the collapse of the former Soviet Union. In its formative years, the game was played out against the backdrop of massive national upheaval. The iron fist was quivering as the country found itself in crisis, caught in between the trusted methods of communism, and the prosperity that democracy and capitalism were supposed to bring.
Financially the nation was in tatters, and naturally, football bore the scars. Wages for domestic players were low and the best sought to leave for abroad. Quality imports were difficult to attract, and as a result the club sides and the national team were making little headway. Overall, things were a weak imitation when compared to the powerhouse days of sides from behind the Iron curtain.
But all has changed now and a new era is upon us. Over the last decade and since Vladimir Putin’s reign as President, Russia as a whole has been privy to a huge financial uprising led by the privatisation of their vast natural mineral reserves. The country, in parts, has become very rich, very quickly, and similarly to Roman Abramovich at Chelsea, a series of Kremlin-backed Oligarch’s and gas and oil companies have decided to invest huge sums of money to kick-start football. If you consider that Lukoil bankroll Spartak and Gazprom provide the roubles for Zenit, the influence is not hard to spot. On top of this, Russian sides are also backed by Airlines, National Banks and state corporations. Money is no longer an object.
The league is now one of the world’s richest with massive transfer fee’s and wages being offered in an attempt to lure the best players and coaches to the country. A peak at the alumni shows a host of international stars being drawn to the east. According to the latest UEFA league coefficients, the Russian Premier is the sixth strongest on the continent, falling behind the might of England, Spain, Italy, Germany and France, but more importantly, it finds itself moving up and away from the likes of Turkey, Portugal, Scotland and Holland. The money men have high ambition and deep pockets, and have every intention to see this rise continue.
Much like the country itself, Russian football remains a distant proposition, still largely shrouded in an intrigue and mystique which is yet to fully make itself known. There are strong and persistent allegations that match-fixing and corruption are rife throughout the sport, which only adds to increase the appeal of this strange, colossal land.
To put the geographics into perspective, Russia is by far the largest country area-wise in the world. The land slopes vastly across two continents, and eleven time zones. An away trip could fall anywhere between a quick train ride away from central Europe, or a short boat trip from Japan, encompassing 17million square kilometres of differing terrain, climate, culture and ethnicity. The history of this amazing country is truly engrossing, yet a new chapter in its sporting dynasty is just being written.
The influx of cash into Russian football can be directly traced back to a certain Mr Abramovich. His purchase of Chelsea in 2003 caught the imagination of the whole footballing world, and none of the excitement was lost back in his motherland. A spate of investment came forth from massive corporate companies, eager to raise their profile at home and abroad. The aims were the same, to build the biggest and best football clubs they could.
As a result, the league has gradually gained in reputation and stature in recent seasons with CSKA Moscow and Zenit St Petersburg both lifting the UEFA cup since 2005. The national side’s showing at Euro 2008 thrilled neutrals and drew attention to the pool of talented Russian players of the generation. Just this season, in the Champions League, current champions Rubin Kazan managed the unthinkable and defeated Barcelona at the Camp Nou, and CSKA almost grabbed a win at Old Trafford. The improvement in fortunes has led the visionary Arsene Wenger to predict that a Russian club will win the European Cup in the next ten years. The future looks bright. Russian football has come in from the cold.
The Rosgosstrakh Football Championship consists of 16 teams and runs from March to November due to the frozen winter months. There is still a large Moscow-centric dominance with five of the most wealthy and well supported clubs coming from the capital city. Most of these clubs still retain significant links with the institutions which formed them years ago. For example CSKA are the club of the army, Lokomotiv Moscow were formed and are still ran by the Railway association, whilst Dynamo Moscow are said to be the club of the secret police. Although the influence of these affiliations has lessened since Soviet times, it nonetheless adds a further interesting slant on a fascinating scene. Outside of Moscow and the provincial teams are also having their say. Rubin Kazan and Zenit have claimed the title the past three years - ending an eleven year Moscovite-monopoly - and even a team from the war-torn Chechen province have lifted the Russian Cup.
As the new season draws closer, what can we expect? Well, like most things in Russia, on the face of it nothing is as straightforward as it seems. Despite the vast wealth, in the last week, FC Moscow have been withdrawn from the league through financial difficulties and Prime Minister Putin has personally stepped in to ensure Krylia Sovetov – the Soviet Wings – do not go bust. There’s never a dull moment.
From the politics to the players, the cash to the corruption, Red Review will fill you in with all you need to know about Europe’s fastest growing league.
Comrades, cash and corruption. Football behind the Iron Curtain.
Welcome to Red Review, a weekly spy at our footballing comrades in Russia. The status of the Russian game has risen rapidly in a relatively short period of time. Even as recently as the turn of the millennium, Premier League games were being played out in front of sparse crowds at large, decaying old stadiums. Now, Russian clubs find themselves with huge financial backing, and a burning ambition to dominate the European scene. So, what’s happened?
Before we dive straight into the here and now, it’s important to have a brief history lesson about what this vast country is all about, and how politics and economics have played such a crucial factor in shaping the game. The Premier League only began in 1992 following the collapse of the former Soviet Union. In its formative years, the game was played out against the backdrop of massive national upheaval. The iron fist was quivering as the country found itself in crisis, caught in between the trusted methods of communism, and the prosperity that democracy and capitalism were supposed to bring.
Financially the nation was in tatters, and naturally, football bore the scars. Wages for domestic players were low and the best sought to leave for abroad. Quality imports were difficult to attract, and as a result the club sides and the national team were making little headway. Overall, things were a weak imitation when compared to the powerhouse days of sides from behind the Iron curtain.
But all has changed now and a new era is upon us. Over the last decade and since Vladimir Putin’s reign as President, Russia as a whole has been privy to a huge financial uprising led by the privatisation of their vast natural mineral reserves. The country, in parts, has become very rich, very quickly, and similarly to Roman Abramovich at Chelsea, a series of Kremlin-backed Oligarch’s and gas and oil companies have decided to invest huge sums of money to kick-start football. If you consider that Lukoil bankroll Spartak and Gazprom provide the roubles for Zenit, the influence is not hard to spot. On top of this, Russian sides are also backed by Airlines, National Banks and state corporations. Money is no longer an object.
The league is now one of the world’s richest with massive transfer fee’s and wages being offered in an attempt to lure the best players and coaches to the country. A peak at the alumni shows a host of international stars being drawn to the east. According to the latest UEFA league coefficients, the Russian Premier is the sixth strongest on the continent, falling behind the might of England, Spain, Italy, Germany and France, but more importantly, it finds itself moving up and away from the likes of Turkey, Portugal, Scotland and Holland. The money men have high ambition and deep pockets, and have every intention to see this rise continue.
Much like the country itself, Russian football remains a distant proposition, still largely shrouded in an intrigue and mystique which is yet to fully make itself known. There are strong and persistent allegations that match-fixing and corruption are rife throughout the sport, which only adds to increase the appeal of this strange, colossal land.
To put the geographics into perspective, Russia is by far the largest country area-wise in the world. The land slopes vastly across two continents, and eleven time zones. An away trip could fall anywhere between a quick train ride away from central Europe, or a short boat trip from Japan, encompassing 17million square kilometres of differing terrain, climate, culture and ethnicity. The history of this amazing country is truly engrossing, yet a new chapter in its sporting dynasty is just being written.
The influx of cash into Russian football can be directly traced back to a certain Mr Abramovich. His purchase of Chelsea in 2003 caught the imagination of the whole footballing world, and none of the excitement was lost back in his motherland. A spate of investment came forth from massive corporate companies, eager to raise their profile at home and abroad. The aims were the same, to build the biggest and best football clubs they could.
As a result, the league has gradually gained in reputation and stature in recent seasons with CSKA Moscow and Zenit St Petersburg both lifting the UEFA cup since 2005. The national side’s showing at Euro 2008 thrilled neutrals and drew attention to the pool of talented Russian players of the generation. Just this season, in the Champions League, current champions Rubin Kazan managed the unthinkable and defeated Barcelona at the Camp Nou, and CSKA almost grabbed a win at Old Trafford. The improvement in fortunes has led the visionary Arsene Wenger to predict that a Russian club will win the European Cup in the next ten years. The future looks bright. Russian football has come in from the cold.
The Rosgosstrakh Football Championship consists of 16 teams and runs from March to November due to the frozen winter months. There is still a large Moscow-centric dominance with five of the most wealthy and well supported clubs coming from the capital city. Most of these clubs still retain significant links with the institutions which formed them years ago. For example CSKA are the club of the army, Lokomotiv Moscow were formed and are still ran by the Railway association, whilst Dynamo Moscow are said to be the club of the secret police. Although the influence of these affiliations has lessened since Soviet times, it nonetheless adds a further interesting slant on a fascinating scene. Outside of Moscow and the provincial teams are also having their say. Rubin Kazan and Zenit have claimed the title the past three years - ending an eleven year Moscovite-monopoly - and even a team from the war-torn Chechen province have lifted the Russian Cup.
As the new season draws closer, what can we expect? Well, like most things in Russia, on the face of it nothing is as straightforward as it seems. Despite the vast wealth, in the last week, FC Moscow have been withdrawn from the league through financial difficulties and Prime Minister Putin has personally stepped in to ensure Krylia Sovetov – the Soviet Wings – do not go bust. There’s never a dull moment.
From the politics to the players, the cash to the corruption, Red Review will fill you in with all you need to know about Europe’s fastest growing league.
Before we dive straight into the here and now, it’s important to have a brief history lesson about what this vast country is all about, and how politics and economics have played such a crucial factor in shaping the game. The Premier League only began in 1992 following the collapse of the former Soviet Union. In its formative years, the game was played out against the backdrop of massive national upheaval. The iron fist was quivering as the country found itself in crisis, caught in between the trusted methods of communism, and the prosperity that democracy and capitalism were supposed to bring.
Financially the nation was in tatters, and naturally, football bore the scars. Wages for domestic players were low and the best sought to leave for abroad. Quality imports were difficult to attract, and as a result the club sides and the national team were making little headway. Overall, things were a weak imitation when compared to the powerhouse days of sides from behind the Iron curtain.
But all has changed now and a new era is upon us. Over the last decade and since Vladimir Putin’s reign as President, Russia as a whole has been privy to a huge financial uprising led by the privatisation of their vast natural mineral reserves. The country, in parts, has become very rich, very quickly, and similarly to Roman Abramovich at Chelsea, a series of Kremlin-backed Oligarch’s and gas and oil companies have decided to invest huge sums of money to kick-start football. If you consider that Lukoil bankroll Spartak and Gazprom provide the roubles for Zenit, the influence is not hard to spot. On top of this, Russian sides are also backed by Airlines, National Banks and state corporations. Money is no longer an object.
The league is now one of the world’s richest with massive transfer fee’s and wages being offered in an attempt to lure the best players and coaches to the country. A peak at the alumni shows a host of international stars being drawn to the east. According to the latest UEFA league coefficients, the Russian Premier is the sixth strongest on the continent, falling behind the might of England, Spain, Italy, Germany and France, but more importantly, it finds itself moving up and away from the likes of Turkey, Portugal, Scotland and Holland. The money men have high ambition and deep pockets, and have every intention to see this rise continue.
Much like the country itself, Russian football remains a distant proposition, still largely shrouded in an intrigue and mystique which is yet to fully make itself known. There are strong and persistent allegations that match-fixing and corruption are rife throughout the sport, which only adds to increase the appeal of this strange, colossal land.
To put the geographics into perspective, Russia is by far the largest country area-wise in the world. The land slopes vastly across two continents, and eleven time zones. An away trip could fall anywhere between a quick train ride away from central Europe, or a short boat trip from Japan, encompassing 17million square kilometres of differing terrain, climate, culture and ethnicity. The history of this amazing country is truly engrossing, yet a new chapter in its sporting dynasty is just being written.
The influx of cash into Russian football can be directly traced back to a certain Mr Abramovich. His purchase of Chelsea in 2003 caught the imagination of the whole footballing world, and none of the excitement was lost back in his motherland. A spate of investment came forth from massive corporate companies, eager to raise their profile at home and abroad. The aims were the same, to build the biggest and best football clubs they could.
As a result, the league has gradually gained in reputation and stature in recent seasons with CSKA Moscow and Zenit St Petersburg both lifting the UEFA cup since 2005. The national side’s showing at Euro 2008 thrilled neutrals and drew attention to the pool of talented Russian players of the generation. Just this season, in the Champions League, current champions Rubin Kazan managed the unthinkable and defeated Barcelona at the Camp Nou, and CSKA almost grabbed a win at Old Trafford. The improvement in fortunes has led the visionary Arsene Wenger to predict that a Russian club will win the European Cup in the next ten years. The future looks bright. Russian football has come in from the cold.
The Rosgosstrakh Football Championship consists of 16 teams and runs from March to November due to the frozen winter months. There is still a large Moscow-centric dominance with five of the most wealthy and well supported clubs coming from the capital city. Most of these clubs still retain significant links with the institutions which formed them years ago. For example CSKA are the club of the army, Lokomotiv Moscow were formed and are still ran by the Railway association, whilst Dynamo Moscow are said to be the club of the secret police. Although the influence of these affiliations has lessened since Soviet times, it nonetheless adds a further interesting slant on a fascinating scene. Outside of Moscow and the provincial teams are also having their say. Rubin Kazan and Zenit have claimed the title the past three years - ending an eleven year Moscovite-monopoly - and even a team from the war-torn Chechen province have lifted the Russian Cup.
As the new season draws closer, what can we expect? Well, like most things in Russia, on the face of it nothing is as straightforward as it seems. Despite the vast wealth, in the last week, FC Moscow have been withdrawn from the league through financial difficulties and Prime Minister Putin has personally stepped in to ensure Krylia Sovetov – the Soviet Wings – do not go bust. There’s never a dull moment.
From the politics to the players, the cash to the corruption, Red Review will fill you in with all you need to know about Europe’s fastest growing league.
Tuesday, 16 February 2010
Rooney too hot to handle for generous Rossoneri
The scoreline is bruising for Milan. Clarence Seedorf’s late, classy finish has eased the bodyblows of Wayne Rooney’s double, but the Rossoneri must look longingly in failings at both ends, as to why they have ceded parity.
For large parts of the match Milan looked the better side. Brisk passing through the middle of the park had United scrambling. Ronaldinho was playing like it was a courtesy rather than a chore, the spark in his feet was a persistent threat, as was Pato stationed on the other side. What was most encouraging about il Diavolo’s attacks, was United’s frantic efforts to overt them. The whole United back four looked hasty and hesitent, as they were caught cold on a ground they have not enjoyed good fortunes.
As well as looking a danger themselves, they were aided and abeited by some nervous defending from the visitors. A series of rushed clearances and kamikaze passing in their own half presented the hosts with yet more situations they spurned, and this general theme continued throughout. Although the score doesn’t offer much cheer, there is plenty of reason for optimism ahead of the return leg.
Another night, another game, Milan could have won with room to spare. It’s this glass half-full attitude they should take to Old Trafford with a two-goal margin needed. Basically, Milan need goals, two minimum, three likely, more probably. If Ronaldinho and Pato can have their game on, and United don’t function well defensively, the Rossoneri will create chances. Are they going to take them?
It will be interesting to see how Sir Alex Ferguson sets out his team back in Manchester. After their open and attacking nature was swathed through by Kaka and co in 2007, Ferguson has noticeably shifted to a more formulaic functioning. A five man midfield has been the norm, so, will United curb their usual forward intentions for the second leg. Against Barcelona in the return of their semi in 2008, they were happy to cease ground and possession. Leonardo’s men will have plenty of opportunity to control the game.
If Andrea Pirlo and his midfield associates can get a grip of the ball, they have shown they are able to play at the heart of the Red Devils. Michael Carrick will be suspended and Paul Scholes looked way off the pace for chasing the ball. It will take a concentrated, organised and clinical display if they are to overturn a hefty disadvantage.
Unfortunately that all sounds far too simplistic, and you must wonder whether Milan really have missed the ship here. Surely United will not be as dishevelled as they were tonight, and a far superior showing will be demanded by Ferguson. The Scot will not allow a second bite of the cherry.
There is, also, another major stumbling block in the form of Wayne Rooney who looked a cut above everybody else. The Milan defence simply looked unable to cope with Rooney, who constantly engineered himself chances. It’ll be difficult to implement any plans to stop the man, and in such for he could settle the tie alone if left unshackled.
Progression to the quarters would require one of the clubs finest ever European performances. It’s an almighty ask, and one largely of their own doing.
For large parts of the match Milan looked the better side. Brisk passing through the middle of the park had United scrambling. Ronaldinho was playing like it was a courtesy rather than a chore, the spark in his feet was a persistent threat, as was Pato stationed on the other side. What was most encouraging about il Diavolo’s attacks, was United’s frantic efforts to overt them. The whole United back four looked hasty and hesitent, as they were caught cold on a ground they have not enjoyed good fortunes.
As well as looking a danger themselves, they were aided and abeited by some nervous defending from the visitors. A series of rushed clearances and kamikaze passing in their own half presented the hosts with yet more situations they spurned, and this general theme continued throughout. Although the score doesn’t offer much cheer, there is plenty of reason for optimism ahead of the return leg.
Another night, another game, Milan could have won with room to spare. It’s this glass half-full attitude they should take to Old Trafford with a two-goal margin needed. Basically, Milan need goals, two minimum, three likely, more probably. If Ronaldinho and Pato can have their game on, and United don’t function well defensively, the Rossoneri will create chances. Are they going to take them?
It will be interesting to see how Sir Alex Ferguson sets out his team back in Manchester. After their open and attacking nature was swathed through by Kaka and co in 2007, Ferguson has noticeably shifted to a more formulaic functioning. A five man midfield has been the norm, so, will United curb their usual forward intentions for the second leg. Against Barcelona in the return of their semi in 2008, they were happy to cease ground and possession. Leonardo’s men will have plenty of opportunity to control the game.
If Andrea Pirlo and his midfield associates can get a grip of the ball, they have shown they are able to play at the heart of the Red Devils. Michael Carrick will be suspended and Paul Scholes looked way off the pace for chasing the ball. It will take a concentrated, organised and clinical display if they are to overturn a hefty disadvantage.
Unfortunately that all sounds far too simplistic, and you must wonder whether Milan really have missed the ship here. Surely United will not be as dishevelled as they were tonight, and a far superior showing will be demanded by Ferguson. The Scot will not allow a second bite of the cherry.
There is, also, another major stumbling block in the form of Wayne Rooney who looked a cut above everybody else. The Milan defence simply looked unable to cope with Rooney, who constantly engineered himself chances. It’ll be difficult to implement any plans to stop the man, and in such for he could settle the tie alone if left unshackled.
Progression to the quarters would require one of the clubs finest ever European performances. It’s an almighty ask, and one largely of their own doing.
Friday, 12 February 2010
Juve: All change promised, none delivered. Yet.
I suppose the best thing to say about Alberto Zaccheroni’s two games in charge of Juventus, is that they are unbeaten. Apart from that, positives have been at a premium for the Bianconeri, who have registered two insipid draws under Zac’s tutelage.
Despite the change of coach and a shift to a three-man defence, Juve’s performances have carried on in a similar vein to that which saw the demise of Ciro Ferrara. 180 minutes of football have yet to see a goal scored from open play, and the general disjointed nature of their play has continued.
True, la Vecchia Signora have been decimated by injuries, but the starting line-up’s they can put out are deserving of better showings than those they have delivered against Lazio and Livorno. Juve now find themselves seventh, three points adrift of the Champions League slots, but with no immediate sign of the upturn in fortunes a change of tactician is supposed to provoke.
Recurring problems surround the failure to coerce Brazilian Trequartista Diego into proceedings, and a change to a 3-4-1-2 with the former Werder Bremen ace behind two strikers did little to spark his creative talents into life against Livorno last weekend. The fact that nobody other than David Trezeguet and Amauri have struck more than four Serie A goals, highlight the lack of potency they possess.
Zaccheroni’s remit was clear, a top four finish must be attained, and the Juventus board have taken this presumption to heart as Vice-general Manager Roberto Bettega has apparently already drawn up grand plans to restore the Turin giants to their former glory as of next season. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Bettega has only guaranteed a place at the club to eleven members of the squad for next season’s campaign, meaning the rest of them find themselves in limbo.
If the report has any substance, the likes of Trezeguet, Fabio Grosso, Fabio Cannavaro, Jonathan Zebina, Mauro Camoranesi and Hasan Salihamidzic, amongst others, will be seeking pastures new come the summer. Whilst the proactivity of the board may be commendable, other questions need to be raised, such as how insecurity to squad members would help in the current plight, and what the prospective future Coach of Juve will make of the asset stripping.
The Bianconeri squad is one of the most senior in the league, with more than ten players aged 30 or over. Given the relative shortcomings since Calciopoli, renovation is needed, and further reports have surfaced in the press regarding approaches for a stream of top players in their prime, including Franck Ribery, Juan Vargas and Gonzalo Higuain. It’s not only the playing staff the newspapers are speculating will be subject to an overhaul, with Tuttosport claiming Cesare Prandelli will be lured form Fiorentina to coach, with Marcelo Lippi returning to the club as President.
At the moment, these changes are nothing but hot air, the real talking needs to start immediately as Juve try to get back on track in their chase for a Champions League slot. The next assignment is Genoa on Sunday, Valentine’s Day, with the Olimpico faithful not expecting roses, chocolates are a card from the petrol station. Just three points will do.
Sunday is also the perfect time for Edy Reja to endear himself to Claudio Lotito, who chose the ex-Napoli coach to replace Davide Ballardini, who was this week shown the door after steering the Biancocelesti into the choppy waters of the relegation zone. La Aquile face Parma – themselves without a win since December - at the Ennio Tardini, in desperate search of points to pull them away from the perils of Serie B. Around 1000 Ultras staged a protest at the clubs training ground on Tuesday, with a number of them barging down a gate and entering the complex. It’s an ominous start for Reja, who had to terminate his contract with Hajduk Split to take over the troubled Roman outfit.
A boost to Reja will be the availability of Cristian Ledesma who has yet to feature this season following a contractual dispute with the club. The league arbitration panel ordered the Argentine midfielder to see out the remainder of his contract through to the summer, and with that in mind, Chairman Claudio Lotito has relaxed sanctions on Ledesma’s selection in a bid to avoid the drop. It is a decision welcomed by Ledesma, who has indicated a willingness to get involved and help his employers out of their current predicament, “If the club wants, I am ready to go back on the pitch. Right now, it's necessary to give Lazio a hand. We need to get out of this difficult situation.”
It’s Champions League time again this week, and the first half of the Anglo-Milan battle, with last year’s beaten finalists Manchester United travelling to the San Siro to face the topsy turvy Rossoneri. A few weeks back, il Diavolo were sweeping all before them, but a derby defeat to nine-man Inter has knocked the wind from their sails. They are without a win in the four games preceding the derby loss, scoring just one goal in that time. Milan and Ronaldinho’s form have been directly proportional this season, and it has been evident that the Brazilian has been below par in the recent slump. As ever when Ronnie has an off day, allegations about his nocturnal pursuits hit the press. Apparently Silvio Berlusconi has rang the Samba star to remind him of his on-field duties ahead of a pivotal week in which Milan will aim to re-start their Scudetto challenge whilst progressing in Europe.
Brazil Coach Dunga has left Ronnie out of his ‘selecao’ for an upcoming friendly, which gives the forward an opportune moment to respond against Udinese and Man Utd, in games all associated with Milan will be hoping to see Dinho lead a merry dance.
Despite the change of coach and a shift to a three-man defence, Juve’s performances have carried on in a similar vein to that which saw the demise of Ciro Ferrara. 180 minutes of football have yet to see a goal scored from open play, and the general disjointed nature of their play has continued.
True, la Vecchia Signora have been decimated by injuries, but the starting line-up’s they can put out are deserving of better showings than those they have delivered against Lazio and Livorno. Juve now find themselves seventh, three points adrift of the Champions League slots, but with no immediate sign of the upturn in fortunes a change of tactician is supposed to provoke.
Recurring problems surround the failure to coerce Brazilian Trequartista Diego into proceedings, and a change to a 3-4-1-2 with the former Werder Bremen ace behind two strikers did little to spark his creative talents into life against Livorno last weekend. The fact that nobody other than David Trezeguet and Amauri have struck more than four Serie A goals, highlight the lack of potency they possess.
Zaccheroni’s remit was clear, a top four finish must be attained, and the Juventus board have taken this presumption to heart as Vice-general Manager Roberto Bettega has apparently already drawn up grand plans to restore the Turin giants to their former glory as of next season. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Bettega has only guaranteed a place at the club to eleven members of the squad for next season’s campaign, meaning the rest of them find themselves in limbo.
If the report has any substance, the likes of Trezeguet, Fabio Grosso, Fabio Cannavaro, Jonathan Zebina, Mauro Camoranesi and Hasan Salihamidzic, amongst others, will be seeking pastures new come the summer. Whilst the proactivity of the board may be commendable, other questions need to be raised, such as how insecurity to squad members would help in the current plight, and what the prospective future Coach of Juve will make of the asset stripping.
The Bianconeri squad is one of the most senior in the league, with more than ten players aged 30 or over. Given the relative shortcomings since Calciopoli, renovation is needed, and further reports have surfaced in the press regarding approaches for a stream of top players in their prime, including Franck Ribery, Juan Vargas and Gonzalo Higuain. It’s not only the playing staff the newspapers are speculating will be subject to an overhaul, with Tuttosport claiming Cesare Prandelli will be lured form Fiorentina to coach, with Marcelo Lippi returning to the club as President.
At the moment, these changes are nothing but hot air, the real talking needs to start immediately as Juve try to get back on track in their chase for a Champions League slot. The next assignment is Genoa on Sunday, Valentine’s Day, with the Olimpico faithful not expecting roses, chocolates are a card from the petrol station. Just three points will do.
Sunday is also the perfect time for Edy Reja to endear himself to Claudio Lotito, who chose the ex-Napoli coach to replace Davide Ballardini, who was this week shown the door after steering the Biancocelesti into the choppy waters of the relegation zone. La Aquile face Parma – themselves without a win since December - at the Ennio Tardini, in desperate search of points to pull them away from the perils of Serie B. Around 1000 Ultras staged a protest at the clubs training ground on Tuesday, with a number of them barging down a gate and entering the complex. It’s an ominous start for Reja, who had to terminate his contract with Hajduk Split to take over the troubled Roman outfit.
A boost to Reja will be the availability of Cristian Ledesma who has yet to feature this season following a contractual dispute with the club. The league arbitration panel ordered the Argentine midfielder to see out the remainder of his contract through to the summer, and with that in mind, Chairman Claudio Lotito has relaxed sanctions on Ledesma’s selection in a bid to avoid the drop. It is a decision welcomed by Ledesma, who has indicated a willingness to get involved and help his employers out of their current predicament, “If the club wants, I am ready to go back on the pitch. Right now, it's necessary to give Lazio a hand. We need to get out of this difficult situation.”
It’s Champions League time again this week, and the first half of the Anglo-Milan battle, with last year’s beaten finalists Manchester United travelling to the San Siro to face the topsy turvy Rossoneri. A few weeks back, il Diavolo were sweeping all before them, but a derby defeat to nine-man Inter has knocked the wind from their sails. They are without a win in the four games preceding the derby loss, scoring just one goal in that time. Milan and Ronaldinho’s form have been directly proportional this season, and it has been evident that the Brazilian has been below par in the recent slump. As ever when Ronnie has an off day, allegations about his nocturnal pursuits hit the press. Apparently Silvio Berlusconi has rang the Samba star to remind him of his on-field duties ahead of a pivotal week in which Milan will aim to re-start their Scudetto challenge whilst progressing in Europe.
Brazil Coach Dunga has left Ronnie out of his ‘selecao’ for an upcoming friendly, which gives the forward an opportune moment to respond against Udinese and Man Utd, in games all associated with Milan will be hoping to see Dinho lead a merry dance.
Wednesday, 3 February 2010
England's World Cup years - Italia 90
For those too young to remember Italia 90, Nessun Dorma probably sounds like a Japanese hatchback. For the rest of us, this beautiful piece of music provided the perfect soundtrack to a World Cup that - although lacking in entertainment - was packed with iconic and emotive imagery. Nessun Dorma translates into ‘none shall sleep’ but the tournament was widely embraced by insomniacs as many of the contests became stifling tactical battles, with safety first approaches. Even the Brazilians failed to add any flair, and the competition was, on average, the lowest scoring of all-time.
England started this precedent during qualifying . The path to reaching the finals was a much more straightforward affair back then, England followed Sweden in a four-team group also featuring Poland and Albania. The Three Lions didn’t concede throughout and secured progress with a goalless draw in Stockholm, a match best remembered for the heroics of the blood-covered, rabid-looking Terry Butcher battling on despite a nasty head wound. Approaching kick-off, the usual national optimism and expectation was tapered by what was perceived as a fairly ordinary side, an opinion not enhanced by a warm-up defeat to Uruguay and draw with Tunisia.
The 23-man squad contained a couple of surprises with the omissions of Tony Adams and David Rocastle. The prolific Steve Bull was included despite his goals coming from the third tier of domestic football. Gary Lineker had just finished as the first division’s top scorer, with the young David Platt claiming the Players player of the year. Liverpool were champions and their trio of John Barnes, Peter Beardsley and Steve McMahon had plundered almost 50 goals between them. With the Heysel ban in place, five of the squad were based abroad, albeit Chris Woods, Terry Butcher, Gary Stevens and Trevor Steven were just north of the border with Rangers. Chris Waddle, or ‘Magic Chris’ as the French had imaginatively named him, had just won Ligue 1 with a strong Marseille outfit. The jewel in the crown was Paul Gascoigne who had brought a vibrancy to the team with his direct dribbling and eye for a pass.
Italia 90 was the culmination of Bobby Robson’s eight year stand, and after being undone by Diego Maradona in ’86, Robson almost lost his job following the debacle of Euro 88, when England were dumped out after losing all three games. As fate would have it – and a contrived draw so that the English fans were marooned on the islands of Sicily and Sardinia - England were paired in Group F with Holland and the Republic of Ireland – two side who beat them at the Euro’s – as well as Egypt. The Dutch, spearheaded by Milan’s triumvirate of Frank Rijkaard, Ruud Gullit and Marco Van Basten, were hot favourites to win the tournament but never found any rhythm and eventually went out in the second round.
Group F replicated the vibe of the whole competition and proved to be a cagey, low scoring section. No team managed to score more than once in a match and the games were largely devoid of incident and excitement. England got proceedings under way and started brightly, taking an early lead against the Republic courtesy of a Lineker poach. The plucky Irish battled on and earned a point when Kevin Sheedy replied. Next on the agenda was the Netherlands, with England seeking revenge for the humiliation dished out by Van Basten and co two years earlier. Die Oranje had been held to a draw in their first game with Egypt, yet Bobby Robson controversially switched to a five man defence with a sweeper. The move gained rounded criticism in the British press as being overtly negative, with Robson justifying his decision by saying he had, “no intention of allowing Van Basten and Gullit to rip holes in us.” In large the tactic paid off, and although the game ended 0-0, Robson’s men had two goals debatably ruled out whilst the Dutch posed limited threat. Yet another draw between Ireland and Egypt meant, all sides were locked on two points going into the final match, where a Mark Wright header against the Pharaohs secured progress.
Belgium lay in wait in the second round, yet the prospect of instant elimination only served to produce another sterile match. Inspired by Enzo Scifo, the ’86 semi-finalists outplayed England and hit the woodwork twice, although once again the English cursed errant officiating when John Barnes’s goal was flagged offside. Only David Platt’s swivelling volley in the dying embers of extra time spared penalties, and sent England through to a quarter final with the tournaments surprise package, Cameroon. The indomitable Lions were the first African nation to reach this stage and had brought some colour to a fairly bland tournament. 38-year-old Roger Milla was the star of the show having been coaxed out of retirement to score four goals from the bench. After Platt had put England ahead, the Africans retaliated to lead 2-1 with only seven minutes left, Milla coming off the bench to set up a goal and get dropped for a penalty, however, the naivety and inexperience of the Cameroonians got the better of them, conceding two penalties for brainless tackles which gifted England an escape route to a semi versus old rivals, West Germany.
The Germans were arguably the best team on show and had acquired a pathological habit of doing well in major events. Once again they rocked up in the Semi’s and were firm favourites thanks to an elite cast including Brehme, Kohler, Littbarski, Matthaeus and Klinsmann. In yet another close encounter, Brehme’s deflected free-kick looked to be enough for the Germans, before a trademark Lineker finish sent us to extra-time once again. The rest of the game proved a gut-wrenching experience, confirming England’s reputation as the bridesmaids of international football. First we had Gazza’s tears, then as the clinical Germans dispatched all of their spot-kicks, the heartbreak as Stuart Pearce and Chris Waddle missed. The misery was exaggerated as so much effort had been expanded in three close group games followed by another three gruelling knock out’s which all went the required distance. It wasn’t to be for England, or Bobby Robson who returned home once again as gallant losers.
The Germans went onto beat Argentina in an awful final which epitomised the whole tournament, whilst a shattered England lost out to Italy in the third place play-off. Gazza’s performances and tears endeared him around the world as a loveable rogue, and dear old Bobby was afforded the dignity of bowing out with his head held high. In truth, England failed to stand out in a tournament where no team stood out and were once again found wanting for quality and, more importantly, luck. Something those pesky Germans seem to have in abundance.
England started this precedent during qualifying . The path to reaching the finals was a much more straightforward affair back then, England followed Sweden in a four-team group also featuring Poland and Albania. The Three Lions didn’t concede throughout and secured progress with a goalless draw in Stockholm, a match best remembered for the heroics of the blood-covered, rabid-looking Terry Butcher battling on despite a nasty head wound. Approaching kick-off, the usual national optimism and expectation was tapered by what was perceived as a fairly ordinary side, an opinion not enhanced by a warm-up defeat to Uruguay and draw with Tunisia.
The 23-man squad contained a couple of surprises with the omissions of Tony Adams and David Rocastle. The prolific Steve Bull was included despite his goals coming from the third tier of domestic football. Gary Lineker had just finished as the first division’s top scorer, with the young David Platt claiming the Players player of the year. Liverpool were champions and their trio of John Barnes, Peter Beardsley and Steve McMahon had plundered almost 50 goals between them. With the Heysel ban in place, five of the squad were based abroad, albeit Chris Woods, Terry Butcher, Gary Stevens and Trevor Steven were just north of the border with Rangers. Chris Waddle, or ‘Magic Chris’ as the French had imaginatively named him, had just won Ligue 1 with a strong Marseille outfit. The jewel in the crown was Paul Gascoigne who had brought a vibrancy to the team with his direct dribbling and eye for a pass.
Italia 90 was the culmination of Bobby Robson’s eight year stand, and after being undone by Diego Maradona in ’86, Robson almost lost his job following the debacle of Euro 88, when England were dumped out after losing all three games. As fate would have it – and a contrived draw so that the English fans were marooned on the islands of Sicily and Sardinia - England were paired in Group F with Holland and the Republic of Ireland – two side who beat them at the Euro’s – as well as Egypt. The Dutch, spearheaded by Milan’s triumvirate of Frank Rijkaard, Ruud Gullit and Marco Van Basten, were hot favourites to win the tournament but never found any rhythm and eventually went out in the second round.
Group F replicated the vibe of the whole competition and proved to be a cagey, low scoring section. No team managed to score more than once in a match and the games were largely devoid of incident and excitement. England got proceedings under way and started brightly, taking an early lead against the Republic courtesy of a Lineker poach. The plucky Irish battled on and earned a point when Kevin Sheedy replied. Next on the agenda was the Netherlands, with England seeking revenge for the humiliation dished out by Van Basten and co two years earlier. Die Oranje had been held to a draw in their first game with Egypt, yet Bobby Robson controversially switched to a five man defence with a sweeper. The move gained rounded criticism in the British press as being overtly negative, with Robson justifying his decision by saying he had, “no intention of allowing Van Basten and Gullit to rip holes in us.” In large the tactic paid off, and although the game ended 0-0, Robson’s men had two goals debatably ruled out whilst the Dutch posed limited threat. Yet another draw between Ireland and Egypt meant, all sides were locked on two points going into the final match, where a Mark Wright header against the Pharaohs secured progress.
Belgium lay in wait in the second round, yet the prospect of instant elimination only served to produce another sterile match. Inspired by Enzo Scifo, the ’86 semi-finalists outplayed England and hit the woodwork twice, although once again the English cursed errant officiating when John Barnes’s goal was flagged offside. Only David Platt’s swivelling volley in the dying embers of extra time spared penalties, and sent England through to a quarter final with the tournaments surprise package, Cameroon. The indomitable Lions were the first African nation to reach this stage and had brought some colour to a fairly bland tournament. 38-year-old Roger Milla was the star of the show having been coaxed out of retirement to score four goals from the bench. After Platt had put England ahead, the Africans retaliated to lead 2-1 with only seven minutes left, Milla coming off the bench to set up a goal and get dropped for a penalty, however, the naivety and inexperience of the Cameroonians got the better of them, conceding two penalties for brainless tackles which gifted England an escape route to a semi versus old rivals, West Germany.
The Germans were arguably the best team on show and had acquired a pathological habit of doing well in major events. Once again they rocked up in the Semi’s and were firm favourites thanks to an elite cast including Brehme, Kohler, Littbarski, Matthaeus and Klinsmann. In yet another close encounter, Brehme’s deflected free-kick looked to be enough for the Germans, before a trademark Lineker finish sent us to extra-time once again. The rest of the game proved a gut-wrenching experience, confirming England’s reputation as the bridesmaids of international football. First we had Gazza’s tears, then as the clinical Germans dispatched all of their spot-kicks, the heartbreak as Stuart Pearce and Chris Waddle missed. The misery was exaggerated as so much effort had been expanded in three close group games followed by another three gruelling knock out’s which all went the required distance. It wasn’t to be for England, or Bobby Robson who returned home once again as gallant losers.
The Germans went onto beat Argentina in an awful final which epitomised the whole tournament, whilst a shattered England lost out to Italy in the third place play-off. Gazza’s performances and tears endeared him around the world as a loveable rogue, and dear old Bobby was afforded the dignity of bowing out with his head held high. In truth, England failed to stand out in a tournament where no team stood out and were once again found wanting for quality and, more importantly, luck. Something those pesky Germans seem to have in abundance.
Tuesday, 2 February 2010
A derby win, a semi-final, and disciplinary charges. Just another quiet week for Mourinho.
It won’t come as much of a surprise to hear that Jose Mourinho will be dragged up in front of the disciplinary commission to explain his comments following last weekend’s Derby della Madonnina. The Portuguese coach was incensed by a number of controversial refereeing decisions, spearheaded by the bizarre red card to Wesley Sneijder for sarcastically clapping the whistleblower. In his interviews with Italian TV, Mourinho openly professed, “I have already understood they won't let us seal up the Scudetto.” ‘They’ want a chat.
Sitting alongside the special one in the HQ naughty chairs will be Nerazzurri General Manager Ernesto Paolilo, after he delivered his none too conspicuous view that “they want to re-open a title race by not recognising the superiority of a team and they want to do it in a none-too-legal way.” A hefty fine can be expected for each with Mourinho possibly incurring a touchline ban as well. The disciplinary commission have brought the charges about as Mourinho and Paolilo’s actions ‘aimed to damage, directly or indirectly, the prestige and credibility of the Federal Institutions, casting shadows of doubt over the regularity of the tournament.’ Perish the thought.
Although it’s easy to pay little attention to Mourinho’s diatribes made in the heat of the moment, the disciplinary commission must be conscious to stamp down on any suggestions of foul play. We must remember that this is the department embroiled in the Calciopoli scandal, and one which is eager to portray a new light. Such accusations won’t sit lightly amongst an organisation still trying to rebuild its reputation, and it’s likely Mourinho will bear the brunt of their dissatisfaction.
As yet, no summons has been issued to Marco Materazzi for his stunt with the Silvio Berlusconi mask. The Matrix has passed it off as harmless banter, saying, “It was just a derby prank, nothing more. There was no intention to cause any trouble or to offend, and there was no political intention.” It makes you think that Materazzi must have caught back episodes of Spitting Image during his spell with Everton.
Ahead of tonight’s Coppa Italia quarter-final meeting with Juventus, Mourinho did have some consoling words for stricken Bianconeri boss Ciro Ferrara. Mourinho has been far from immune to criticism since his arrival on the peninsula and claims, “In Italy a Coach who starts the season on the bench and finishes it there is not a Coach, but a hero.” Unfortunately for Ferrara the sympathy stopped with words as il Biscione dumped Juve out of the competition thanks to another late rally. Diego had put the visitors ahead only for Lucio to equalise (72) before Mario Balotelli pounced late to set up a semi with Fiorentina. Ironically Juventus fans were banned from attending the match at the San Siro as a punishment for their continued racial abuse of Balotelli, who took great pleasure in piling further misery on the fallen Turin giants.
The Nerazzurri are now well placed for a domestic double, but must maintain a safe distance from Milan in the league. The Derby result ended one of those mini-slumps which Inter fall into, and restored the lead to nine points over their great rivals. Next up is a visit to the Ennio Tardini to face Parma. Although the talismanic Sneijder is suspended, la Benemeata should have more than enough to deposit a Ducali who have collected just one point from 15. The serpenti have formed a nasty habit, possibly borne out of complacency, of dropping unnecessary points in fixtures they should be dominating. If inter are to make any headway in Europe this season, Mourinho may opt to shuffle his pack either side of the Champions League games. If so, it will be important for the il Biscione to maintain a comfortable buffer between themselves and their pursuers to enable the Special One to comfortably rotate in the league schedule. Errors in games like this weekend’s can prove farer reaching than just Serie A. Revitalised after taking care of the Rossoneri, Inter now need to show that efficiency and consistency of champions.
With just a couple of days of the transfer window left, the transfer of Cristian Ledesma from Lazio looks to be dead after the league’s arbitration panel decided not to rescind the players contract. The Argentinean midfielder must now sit out the rest of his contract in Rome, with the champions reticent to meet Lazio’s 15m Euro valuation. Marco Branca had indicated there was ‘another player’ in the cross-hairs, with initial speculation that the player was Sporting Lisbon’s Portuguese schemer Miguel Veloso, however, late on Thursday evening reports surfaced that the club had just struck a deal with Valencia over the acquisition of Manuel Fernandes,
Sitting alongside the special one in the HQ naughty chairs will be Nerazzurri General Manager Ernesto Paolilo, after he delivered his none too conspicuous view that “they want to re-open a title race by not recognising the superiority of a team and they want to do it in a none-too-legal way.” A hefty fine can be expected for each with Mourinho possibly incurring a touchline ban as well. The disciplinary commission have brought the charges about as Mourinho and Paolilo’s actions ‘aimed to damage, directly or indirectly, the prestige and credibility of the Federal Institutions, casting shadows of doubt over the regularity of the tournament.’ Perish the thought.
Although it’s easy to pay little attention to Mourinho’s diatribes made in the heat of the moment, the disciplinary commission must be conscious to stamp down on any suggestions of foul play. We must remember that this is the department embroiled in the Calciopoli scandal, and one which is eager to portray a new light. Such accusations won’t sit lightly amongst an organisation still trying to rebuild its reputation, and it’s likely Mourinho will bear the brunt of their dissatisfaction.
As yet, no summons has been issued to Marco Materazzi for his stunt with the Silvio Berlusconi mask. The Matrix has passed it off as harmless banter, saying, “It was just a derby prank, nothing more. There was no intention to cause any trouble or to offend, and there was no political intention.” It makes you think that Materazzi must have caught back episodes of Spitting Image during his spell with Everton.
Ahead of tonight’s Coppa Italia quarter-final meeting with Juventus, Mourinho did have some consoling words for stricken Bianconeri boss Ciro Ferrara. Mourinho has been far from immune to criticism since his arrival on the peninsula and claims, “In Italy a Coach who starts the season on the bench and finishes it there is not a Coach, but a hero.” Unfortunately for Ferrara the sympathy stopped with words as il Biscione dumped Juve out of the competition thanks to another late rally. Diego had put the visitors ahead only for Lucio to equalise (72) before Mario Balotelli pounced late to set up a semi with Fiorentina. Ironically Juventus fans were banned from attending the match at the San Siro as a punishment for their continued racial abuse of Balotelli, who took great pleasure in piling further misery on the fallen Turin giants.
The Nerazzurri are now well placed for a domestic double, but must maintain a safe distance from Milan in the league. The Derby result ended one of those mini-slumps which Inter fall into, and restored the lead to nine points over their great rivals. Next up is a visit to the Ennio Tardini to face Parma. Although the talismanic Sneijder is suspended, la Benemeata should have more than enough to deposit a Ducali who have collected just one point from 15. The serpenti have formed a nasty habit, possibly borne out of complacency, of dropping unnecessary points in fixtures they should be dominating. If inter are to make any headway in Europe this season, Mourinho may opt to shuffle his pack either side of the Champions League games. If so, it will be important for the il Biscione to maintain a comfortable buffer between themselves and their pursuers to enable the Special One to comfortably rotate in the league schedule. Errors in games like this weekend’s can prove farer reaching than just Serie A. Revitalised after taking care of the Rossoneri, Inter now need to show that efficiency and consistency of champions.
With just a couple of days of the transfer window left, the transfer of Cristian Ledesma from Lazio looks to be dead after the league’s arbitration panel decided not to rescind the players contract. The Argentinean midfielder must now sit out the rest of his contract in Rome, with the champions reticent to meet Lazio’s 15m Euro valuation. Marco Branca had indicated there was ‘another player’ in the cross-hairs, with initial speculation that the player was Sporting Lisbon’s Portuguese schemer Miguel Veloso, however, late on Thursday evening reports surfaced that the club had just struck a deal with Valencia over the acquisition of Manuel Fernandes,
Michael Laudrup - Pure class
"Pele was the best in the 60’s, Cruyff in the 70’s, Maradona in the 80’s and Laudrup in the 90’s." That’s some accolade indeed, especially coming from someone as illustrious and respected as Franz Beckenbauer. Especially considering the likes of Ronaldo and Zidane. It’s one of the many injustices of the game that Michael Laudrup was never afforded the sort of universal celebration he so thoroughly deserved. Why he never did remains a mystery, as the mercurial Dane was surely one of the most brilliantly gifted players ever to lace up a pair of boots.
Laudrup was the son of Finn, a former Denmark international, and began attracting interest from around Europe aged just 13, when Ajax offered him a place in their much fabled academy. His parents put the anchors on that move saying he was too young to up sticks to Amsterdam, but a transfer was soon on the cards after he prospered with boyhood heroes Brondby. Juventus moved for the eighteen year-old and immediately packed him off to Lazio for two years. Upon returning to Turin, he never fully emerged from the shadow of the legendary Michel Platini and it was only when his stylish attacking play was coupled with the same principles of Barcelona that Laudrup shone as one of the finest players of his generation.
Standing 6ft tall, and lean, Laudrup was a natural and graceful athlete. His poise and balance allowed him to skip past and accelerate away from his hapless markers. His signature move was to quickly switch the ball between feet to evade challenges; a move coined the ‘Laudrup dribble’. He was in every sense of the term, a playmaker. In Johan Cruyff’s ‘dream team’ of the early 90’s, Laudrup was the focal point of a side including Ronald Koeman, Pep Guardiola, Hristo Stoichkov and many more. Allowed the freedom to roam where he pleased, ‘Miki’ read the game with such foresight and understanding that he was able to take up positions where he could receive the ball to harm the opposition to maximum effect.
Laudrup was endowed with all the necessary skills to excel in this role. He had pace, he could beat a man, he could beat men, he could conduct, create and shoot, but the trait which set him apart from almost any other player was his ability to deliver a killer pass, the weight and timing of which were nearly super-natural. If certain players are blessed with a football brain, then Laudrup must have possessed artificial intelligence. When in possession, he had an almost psychic intuition, not only as to the location of team-mates, but seemingly their intentions and movements. Grateful colleagues were the beneficiaries of a deluge of high class through balls, delivered from an assortment of areas and distances. Such was the brilliance, the recipient often barely had to break stride to execute a finish or a cross. Few players have ever been able to demonstrate an innate ability to so consistently place dangerous through-balls with such incredible accuracy. Given his advanced position, Laudrup was never particularly prolific himself but more than made up for that with the sheer volume of goals and chances he created. In 1994/5 following his switch to Real Madrid, Ivan Zamorano rattled home 28 league goals, over 20 of which were directly assisted by Laudrup passes.
Technically, Laudrup was peerless. It was impossible to tell which footed he was as he passed, dribbled and shot with impeccable precision and purity with either boot. His sublime control and footwork gave him the priceless ability to appear to have as much time on the ball as he wanted, allowing him to survey the scene and choose the correct option. In full flow he was the most watchable footballer imaginable, combining a supreme talent with a princely elegance which made the game look so easy. A gentleman on and off the pitch, Laudrup received few bookings and was never dismissed despite being the subject of some agricultural defending.
His on-field exploits were rewarded with a string of notable team and individual honours. He won a Scudetto with Juventus in 1985/6, and four consecutive La Liga titles at the Camp Nou between 1991 and 1994, this dominance was broken by Real Madrid in 1995...after Laudrup had been transferred to Los Meringues. In 1994 Laudrup was part of the Barca side which dismantled Real 5-0, a year to the day, with the Dane in white, Real exacted a 5-0 drubbing on their great rivals. Coincidence?
He was named the best foreign player in La Liga in 1992, and subsequently voted the best foreign player in Spain between 1974 and 1999. Perhaps the greatest indication of his class comes from the testaments of some of his former team-mates. Both Raul and Romario have both stated he is the best player they have ever played with; many more would echo that sentiment. However, the final word should go to Johann Cruyff, his coach at Barca, and not a bad player himself. In summarising Laudrup’s unique gifts, the Dutchman declared, “When Michael plays like a dream, a magic illusion; no one in the world comes close to his level.” Too true.
Name Michael Laudrup
Age 45 (15/6/1964)
Position Attacking Midfielder
Clubs KB, Brondby, Juventus, Lazio (Loan), Barcelona, Real Madrid, Vissel Kobe, Ajax Amsterdam
Club level honours Serie A Title 1985/6, La Liga Title 1990/91, 1991/92, 1992/93, 1993/94, 1994/95, Eredivisie Title 1997/98, European Cup 1992, Intercontinental Cup 1985, European Super Cup 1992 Copa Del Rey 1990, KNVB Cup 1998, Danish Player of the Year 1982, 1985, Denmark’s Best Ever Player, Don Balon Award 1992, Best Foreign Player in Spanish Football the last 25 years (1974–1999)
Nationality Danish
Caps/goals 104/37
National honours FIFA Confederations Cup 1995
Laudrup was the son of Finn, a former Denmark international, and began attracting interest from around Europe aged just 13, when Ajax offered him a place in their much fabled academy. His parents put the anchors on that move saying he was too young to up sticks to Amsterdam, but a transfer was soon on the cards after he prospered with boyhood heroes Brondby. Juventus moved for the eighteen year-old and immediately packed him off to Lazio for two years. Upon returning to Turin, he never fully emerged from the shadow of the legendary Michel Platini and it was only when his stylish attacking play was coupled with the same principles of Barcelona that Laudrup shone as one of the finest players of his generation.
Standing 6ft tall, and lean, Laudrup was a natural and graceful athlete. His poise and balance allowed him to skip past and accelerate away from his hapless markers. His signature move was to quickly switch the ball between feet to evade challenges; a move coined the ‘Laudrup dribble’. He was in every sense of the term, a playmaker. In Johan Cruyff’s ‘dream team’ of the early 90’s, Laudrup was the focal point of a side including Ronald Koeman, Pep Guardiola, Hristo Stoichkov and many more. Allowed the freedom to roam where he pleased, ‘Miki’ read the game with such foresight and understanding that he was able to take up positions where he could receive the ball to harm the opposition to maximum effect.
Laudrup was endowed with all the necessary skills to excel in this role. He had pace, he could beat a man, he could beat men, he could conduct, create and shoot, but the trait which set him apart from almost any other player was his ability to deliver a killer pass, the weight and timing of which were nearly super-natural. If certain players are blessed with a football brain, then Laudrup must have possessed artificial intelligence. When in possession, he had an almost psychic intuition, not only as to the location of team-mates, but seemingly their intentions and movements. Grateful colleagues were the beneficiaries of a deluge of high class through balls, delivered from an assortment of areas and distances. Such was the brilliance, the recipient often barely had to break stride to execute a finish or a cross. Few players have ever been able to demonstrate an innate ability to so consistently place dangerous through-balls with such incredible accuracy. Given his advanced position, Laudrup was never particularly prolific himself but more than made up for that with the sheer volume of goals and chances he created. In 1994/5 following his switch to Real Madrid, Ivan Zamorano rattled home 28 league goals, over 20 of which were directly assisted by Laudrup passes.
Technically, Laudrup was peerless. It was impossible to tell which footed he was as he passed, dribbled and shot with impeccable precision and purity with either boot. His sublime control and footwork gave him the priceless ability to appear to have as much time on the ball as he wanted, allowing him to survey the scene and choose the correct option. In full flow he was the most watchable footballer imaginable, combining a supreme talent with a princely elegance which made the game look so easy. A gentleman on and off the pitch, Laudrup received few bookings and was never dismissed despite being the subject of some agricultural defending.
His on-field exploits were rewarded with a string of notable team and individual honours. He won a Scudetto with Juventus in 1985/6, and four consecutive La Liga titles at the Camp Nou between 1991 and 1994, this dominance was broken by Real Madrid in 1995...after Laudrup had been transferred to Los Meringues. In 1994 Laudrup was part of the Barca side which dismantled Real 5-0, a year to the day, with the Dane in white, Real exacted a 5-0 drubbing on their great rivals. Coincidence?
He was named the best foreign player in La Liga in 1992, and subsequently voted the best foreign player in Spain between 1974 and 1999. Perhaps the greatest indication of his class comes from the testaments of some of his former team-mates. Both Raul and Romario have both stated he is the best player they have ever played with; many more would echo that sentiment. However, the final word should go to Johann Cruyff, his coach at Barca, and not a bad player himself. In summarising Laudrup’s unique gifts, the Dutchman declared, “When Michael plays like a dream, a magic illusion; no one in the world comes close to his level.” Too true.
Name Michael Laudrup
Age 45 (15/6/1964)
Position Attacking Midfielder
Clubs KB, Brondby, Juventus, Lazio (Loan), Barcelona, Real Madrid, Vissel Kobe, Ajax Amsterdam
Club level honours Serie A Title 1985/6, La Liga Title 1990/91, 1991/92, 1992/93, 1993/94, 1994/95, Eredivisie Title 1997/98, European Cup 1992, Intercontinental Cup 1985, European Super Cup 1992 Copa Del Rey 1990, KNVB Cup 1998, Danish Player of the Year 1982, 1985, Denmark’s Best Ever Player, Don Balon Award 1992, Best Foreign Player in Spanish Football the last 25 years (1974–1999)
Nationality Danish
Caps/goals 104/37
National honours FIFA Confederations Cup 1995
Chelsea’s Nations dilemma finally arrives
Those that said that Didier Drogba’s departure to the African Cup of Nations would cause problems for Chelsea were right. For the wrong reasons, but they were right.
The Blues were barely inconvenienced by the Ivorian’s spell in Angola, winning all five games in his absence, rattling home 19 goals in the process. True, the fixture fairy was kind to them, but Drogba’s departure effectively forced Carlo Ancelotti’s hand to switch from his trusted diamond formation. The tactical switch to the 4-3-3 provided his side with more width and penetration, a statement borne out by the fluent nature of their showings and shower of goals. Now Drogba’s back, and what to do?
Having already struck 19 times this season, Drogba was always going to go straight back into the Londoners starting eleven in partnership with the previously excellent Nicolas Anelka. For the first half an hour or so of the visit to Hull, Chelsea reverted back to the wingless midfield quartet and looked disjointed. The Tigers were happy to follow the now familiar contingency plan against the diamond, by allowing Chelsea to pop the ball around harmlessly in midfield and funnel their attacks through the congestion zone of the middle of the pitch. The only width came from the forays of Branislav Ivanovic and Yuri Zhirkov, but that possession was gained in deep, harmless areas, and never in behind the home side’s back-line. Hull were rarely stretched.
Phil Brown’s relegation zone dwellers have not won in ten, yet started with enough energy to disrupt their more illustrious visitors, whilst also posing a threat themselves. However, Steven Mouyokolo’s opener after half an hour only prompted an increase in tempo and urgency from the league leaders, but more prominently, a slight tactical shift of stationing Florent Malouda and Anelka out wide to provide the necessary lateral danger to start causing problems. It’s a simple theorem that making the pitch as ‘big’ as possible, creates space. The sort of space the likes of Frank Lampard, Michael Ballack and Deco can utilise.
It was only when Chelsea expanded the play that they began to look effective, and over the course of the next hour, created enough chances to win the game. Taking the full share of the spoils would have been tough on a battling Hull, but in analysing where two points missing, will Ancelotti dwell on the missed chances, or the wasted first third of the game? The Italian’s conundrum, which in truth has been rumbling on all season, is to how best to set out his side?
Ancelotti is stuck between a rock and a hard place. The diamond has always served him well, yet it appears to stifle his side, especially as teams have clocked on how to counter the formation. Chelsea have traditionally favoured the 4-3-3, first under Mourinho, and during last season’s rebirth with Guus Hiddink. The return to the three pronged attack wouldn’t really be that hard to implement. Anelka didn’t relish the wide role when posted out there by Avram Grant, yet it didn’t stop him finishing as the Premier League’s top scorer in the last campaign. Also, Barcelona managed to pull it off to great success by using Thierry Henry as a floating advanced left striker.
So, will Ancelotti stick with the unsparkling diamond, or accept that width works wonders?
The Blues were barely inconvenienced by the Ivorian’s spell in Angola, winning all five games in his absence, rattling home 19 goals in the process. True, the fixture fairy was kind to them, but Drogba’s departure effectively forced Carlo Ancelotti’s hand to switch from his trusted diamond formation. The tactical switch to the 4-3-3 provided his side with more width and penetration, a statement borne out by the fluent nature of their showings and shower of goals. Now Drogba’s back, and what to do?
Having already struck 19 times this season, Drogba was always going to go straight back into the Londoners starting eleven in partnership with the previously excellent Nicolas Anelka. For the first half an hour or so of the visit to Hull, Chelsea reverted back to the wingless midfield quartet and looked disjointed. The Tigers were happy to follow the now familiar contingency plan against the diamond, by allowing Chelsea to pop the ball around harmlessly in midfield and funnel their attacks through the congestion zone of the middle of the pitch. The only width came from the forays of Branislav Ivanovic and Yuri Zhirkov, but that possession was gained in deep, harmless areas, and never in behind the home side’s back-line. Hull were rarely stretched.
Phil Brown’s relegation zone dwellers have not won in ten, yet started with enough energy to disrupt their more illustrious visitors, whilst also posing a threat themselves. However, Steven Mouyokolo’s opener after half an hour only prompted an increase in tempo and urgency from the league leaders, but more prominently, a slight tactical shift of stationing Florent Malouda and Anelka out wide to provide the necessary lateral danger to start causing problems. It’s a simple theorem that making the pitch as ‘big’ as possible, creates space. The sort of space the likes of Frank Lampard, Michael Ballack and Deco can utilise.
It was only when Chelsea expanded the play that they began to look effective, and over the course of the next hour, created enough chances to win the game. Taking the full share of the spoils would have been tough on a battling Hull, but in analysing where two points missing, will Ancelotti dwell on the missed chances, or the wasted first third of the game? The Italian’s conundrum, which in truth has been rumbling on all season, is to how best to set out his side?
Ancelotti is stuck between a rock and a hard place. The diamond has always served him well, yet it appears to stifle his side, especially as teams have clocked on how to counter the formation. Chelsea have traditionally favoured the 4-3-3, first under Mourinho, and during last season’s rebirth with Guus Hiddink. The return to the three pronged attack wouldn’t really be that hard to implement. Anelka didn’t relish the wide role when posted out there by Avram Grant, yet it didn’t stop him finishing as the Premier League’s top scorer in the last campaign. Also, Barcelona managed to pull it off to great success by using Thierry Henry as a floating advanced left striker.
So, will Ancelotti stick with the unsparkling diamond, or accept that width works wonders?
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