I have had an article published on www.inbedwithmaradona.com on Novi Pazar's promotion to the Serbian SuperLiga. It can be found here
It has now been republished on worldsoccer.com, the online website of the popular magazine
Thursday, 25 August 2011
Monday, 22 August 2011
5 Young Players to Watch in Bundesliga
The German Bundesliga in recent years has produced a plethora of young talent with other European countries (apart from Spain) looking enviously at the Central European country's options for the future. The Bundesliga has also seen talented young players from other countries plying their trade with the nation's best players. This year is no different, with several youngsters hoping to establish themselves as stars as other players such as Mesut Özil and Thomas Müller have done before them. But who are in the next generation? Here are my picks for players who will establish themselves in Germany's premier competition.
Nils Petersen (Bayern München)
Nils Petersen (Bayern München)
Name: Nils Petersen
D.O.B.: 06/12/1988
Age: 22
P.O.B.: Wernigerode, Germany
Position: Striker
Club: Bayern München
Nationality: Germany
Previous Clubs: Carl Zeiss Jena, Energie Cottbus
After the Kroos brothers, Nils Petersen is another young East German who, to further his career, is moving to West Germany. Petersen attracted the big West German clubs last season with his fantastic performances for Energie Cottbus in the 2. Bundesliga, where he finished top scorer with 25 goals. This great scoring record persuaded Bayern to buy him for approximately €3 million. Petersen is a tall targetman who can shrug off defenders and is comfortable in the air; his main attraction, however, is his finishing ability with two feet. His awareness and off-the-ball skills also mean that Petersen exercises his finishing ability regularly, which must please Bayern's officials.
İlkay Gündoğan (Borussia Dortmund)
Name: İlkay Gündoğan
D.O.B.: 24/10/1990
Age: 20
P.O.B.: Gelsenkirchen, Germany
Position: Central Midfielder
Club: Borussia Dortmund
Nationality: Germany
Previous Clubs: FC Nürnberg
The Gelsenkirchen native is moving back to the Ruhr district but in the kit of Borussia Dortmund, not Schalke, the club he played as a boy for. Gündoğan was bought for €4 million and is tasked with replacing the great Nuri Sahin at the Signal Iduna Park. While Gündoğan lacks the technical adroitness of Sahin, especially in the passing department, he has great positional sense and reads the game well. Gündoğan played in a more advanced role for Nürnberg, but is expected to play further back for Borussia and in his latest appearances he has adapted well. Could form a potentially devastating partnership with Mario Götze in the middle of the pitch; his work rate complementing Götze's creativity.
Son Heung-Min (Hamburg)
Name: Son Heung-Min
D.O.B.: 08/07/1992
Age: 19
P.O.B.: Chuncheon, South Korea
Position: Striker, Winger
Club: Hamburg
Nationality: South Korea
Previous Clubs: None
The generation of South Korean children who watched their homeland finish as semi-finalists during the 2002 world cup are becoming very good footballers as they start to establish themselves. South Korea has a number of young talented players in their ranks, but none are more talented than Son Heung-Min. Quick with close ball control, Son also has a powerful shot which he is more than happy to unleash on unsuspecting goalkeepers. Son is at his best when running at players or on the turn where his pace and trickery assists him. One problem with Son, however, is his inflated belief in his own ability. Many times Son will look to score rather than pass when it is needed and looks to promote himself rather than help the team. When he starts putting his head up and working harder, then Son Heung-Min will be considered a great prospect and only then will he succeed.
Roberto Firmino (Hoffenheim)
Name: Roberto Firmino Barbosa de Oliveira
D.O.B.: 02/10/1991
Age: 19
P.O.B.: Maceio, Brazil
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Club: Hoffenheim
Nationality: Brazil
Previous Clubs: Figuierense
Even though Germans have cracked the code to making dazzling playmakers (Özil and Götze), sometimes they need to import them. And which country is better to import from than Brazil, the land of Ronaldinhos, Zicos and Kakas. There is no guarantee that Firmino would end up almost as good as this trio, but he is a very promising player and Hoffenheim should be given credit for following him in the Brazilian Serie B (although he was linked with Marseille and Manchester United before). Firmino is similar in stature to Kaka, athletic and quick, but he possesses great technique and demonstrated this against Borussia Dortmund where on the turn he smacked the cross bar of Wiedenfeller's net. One facet of his game which could be improved is his playmaking ability. Although the vision is there, Firmino he needs to improve on his passing range and accuracy. If he resolves this slight issue, he should shine in Hoffenheim's multicultural team.
Anthony Ujah (Mainz)
Name: Anthony Ujah
D.O.B.: 20/11/1990
Age: 20
P.O.B.: Ugbokolo, Nigeria
Position: Striker
Club: Mainz
Nationality: Nigerian
Previous Clubs: Warri Wolves, Lillestrøm
Who needs Schürrle when you have Ujah? OK, Ujah hasn't yet reached cult status for Mainz, but at his previous club Lillestrøm, Ujah reached just that, becoming the bane of other Norwegian clubs. Ther reason why: 13 goals in 12 games so far in the Norwegian Tippeligaen and 27 goals in 36 games for the club. Ujah combines great pace with strength and an adeptness in the air, giving him a great physical profile for playing as a targetman or as a quick, lithe forward. Ujah can also finish well and hold up the ball, but he doesn't bring much else up, especially as his passing isn't up to scratch. Mainz though, probably won't use him as anything but a striker who brings goals, similar to Papiss Demba Cissé's role at Freiburg, but diminished in responsibility.
Who needs Schürrle when you have Ujah? OK, Ujah hasn't yet reached cult status for Mainz, but at his previous club Lillestrøm, Ujah reached just that, becoming the bane of other Norwegian clubs. Ther reason why: 13 goals in 12 games so far in the Norwegian Tippeligaen and 27 goals in 36 games for the club. Ujah combines great pace with strength and an adeptness in the air, giving him a great physical profile for playing as a targetman or as a quick, lithe forward. Ujah can also finish well and hold up the ball, but he doesn't bring much else up, especially as his passing isn't up to scratch. Mainz though, probably won't use him as anything but a striker who brings goals, similar to Papiss Demba Cissé's role at Freiburg, but diminished in responsibility.
Monday, 11 July 2011
Transfer Round-Up: Part 2 - France
Clubs around Europe have approached the transfer market hesitantly; with the exception of Real Madrid's €20 million signing of Fábio Coentrão, most clubs have topped up on young players and back-up, replenishing their stocks. The rumours, however, have remained strong and come back incessantly, with transfers including Alexis Sánchez, Cesc Fabregas and Javier Pastore reported to feature large fees. Nevertheless, this article will only focus on the confirmed deals and will also contain my thoughts on them.
NOTE: Transfers are arranged in the country in which the player is moving to and the club they are moving to. This is Part 2 and is focused on France's transfers.
France:
AC Ajaccio:
Guillermo Ochoa: From Club América, Free
A great signing for newly-promoted Ajaccio. Guillermo Ocho may have lost his way over the past year, and the suspicions of doping did not help. Nevertheless, Ochoa remains the best goalkeeper in Mexico and a year ago he was earmarked as Van der Sar's replacement. His aerial ability will greatly strengthen Ajaccio and for free, the club must be elated with this capture. Expect Ochoa to have a solid season and possibly move to a bigger club in Europe.
Dijon:
Abdoulaye Méïté: From West Brom, Free
Méïté is an experienced defender who should strengthen Dijon's defence in their fight for survival. While he is limited in possession, Méïté is a solid defender who played well in Marseille before.
Younousse Sankharé: From Paris St. Germaine, €1m
Sankharé performed well this season for Dijon, so his signing will come as no surprise. A versatile youngster, the 21 year old can play at left-back, left midfielder and as a defensive midfielder. He is a good investment for the future for Dijon and should contribute straight away.
Evian:
Sidney Govou: From Panathinaikos, Free
Sidney Govou has not rediscovered his form for Lyon since the 2006 World Cup Final. His career stagnated towards his later years in Lyon and he has not had the same effect as his fellow countryman Djibril Cissé at Panathinaikos. One reason may be his lack of pace, which was one of the weapons he possessed in his arsenal; with age his pace has deteriorated, and his overall dribbling skills are not good enough to beat defenders. Even though he is a veteran, Govou does not add much maturity to any club he joins. He will, however, be a starter for Evian but won't light up Ligue 1 as he used to.
Jonathan Mensah: From Udinese, Free
Jonathan Mensah is best probably known by people confusing him with his compatriot and fellow centre-back, John Mensah, who is more famous and older. Jonathan Mensah is also known, however, for playing with the victorious Ghana U-20 World Cup side. Having never played for Udinese, Mensah spent this year on loan at Granada in Spain, who were promoted to La Liga. A strong centre-back, Mensah is mainly an investment for the future.
Lille:
Benoît Pedretti: From Auxerre, Free
A cultured midfielder, Pedretti, like Govou, is approaching the end of his career, so a Ligue 1 title would look appealing. Pedretti can either play behind the strikers or as a regista, in front of the defence, utilising his passing skills. He was never fast, and at 30 years old, he would be better suited to playing a deeper role.
Dimitri Payet, From Saint Etienne, €9m
Dimitri Payet and Saint Etienne stormed off at the top of the Ligue 1 table at the beginning of this year, much like Payet's quick runs down the flank. While Payet did not really carry on the momentum from his season start, he still remains an exciting player and should replace Gervinho in the Lille side. Expect Lille to space their play with Hazard and Payet on the flanks and to beat teams with their speed.
Vincent Enyeama, From Hapoel Tel-Aviv, Undisclosed (reported to be €5m)
Enyeama has finally left Israel after impressive performances for Nigeria and Hapoel. A confident goalkeeper, Enyeama will probably be back-up to Landreau, who is very injury-prone for a goalkeeper. Despite this, Enyeama would be pleased to play in France and at champions Lille.
Marko Baša: From Lokomotiv Moscow, Undisclosed (reported to be €1.5)
A solid if unspectacular centre-back, Baša should provide decent back up for Lille. Has played in France for Le Mans before so he would not need a lot of time to adapt to the French style of play.
Lorient:
Mathieu Coutadeur: From Monaco, Undisclosed (reported to be €2m)
A defensive midfielder, Coutadeur is a great passer of the ball and also has the required discipline to play that position. Lorient are trying to rebuild post-Gameiro and Coutadeur should be their starting defensive midfielder for a couple of years at least.
Marseille:
Alou Diarra: From Bordeux, Undisclosed (reported to be €5m)
While Diarra may not have the passing ability or range of Coutadeur, Diarra is a strong, physical defensive midfielder. Good in the air, Diarra has been part of the French national team since 2004, and his protection in front of the back four would help Marseille in their search for another country. Can also fill in at centre back, if Marseille were to play with a back three or need replacements.
Nicolas N'Koulou, From Monaco, €3.5
A strong, quick defender who can play at centre back or right back. A very good prospect for the future, N'Koulou won't play from the start, but expect him to be a very good player in the future and form a partnership with Azpilicueta.
Paris Saint-Germain:
Kévin Gameiro, From Lorient, €11m
He scored almost a goal-per-two-games for Lorient and will look to help Paris Saint-Germain to European qualification. A very quick striker, Gameiro is an elite finisher and is someone who you would want to finish off a chance in the penalty area. Should provide goals for PSG. Often coveted by Arsenal, Gameiro should be part of a small man - big man partnership with Hoarau.
Nicolas Douchez, From Rennes, Free
An athletic goalkeeper, Douchez will become PSG's first choice goalkeeper and is a good signing considering the price tag (or lack of one).
Rennes:
Jonathan Pitroipa, From Hamburg, Free
A very skillful midfielder, Pitroipa can either play as a trequartista or as a winger. Should add some flair to a hard working Rennes side. Can become a bit selfish at times and needs to improve his decision making.
Sochaux:
Sébastien Corchia, From Le Mans, Undisclosed (reported to be €1.8m)
A young, attack-minded right back, Corchia is one of the best talents in France. Sochaux is a perfect match for him as the club has reared many young players, such as Jérémy Mathieu, Pierre-Alain Frau and current France international Marvin Martin. Needs to improve his positioning but this will come in time.
Toulouse:
Pavle Ninkov, From Red Star Belgrade, Undisclosed (reported to be €1m)
A solid and defensive right back who was a bright spark in a Red Star team that performed below expectations. Can be quite limited in attack, but nevertheless is enthusiastic when doing so.
Rémy Riou, From Auxerre, Free
One of France's best young goalkeepers, Riou should be Toulouse's starting goalkeepers, although Pelé will provide competition. Very composed for a 23 year old, Riou also has great reflexes.
NOTE: Transfers are arranged in the country in which the player is moving to and the club they are moving to. This is Part 2 and is focused on France's transfers.
France:
AC Ajaccio:
Guillermo Ochoa: From Club América, Free
A great signing for newly-promoted Ajaccio. Guillermo Ocho may have lost his way over the past year, and the suspicions of doping did not help. Nevertheless, Ochoa remains the best goalkeeper in Mexico and a year ago he was earmarked as Van der Sar's replacement. His aerial ability will greatly strengthen Ajaccio and for free, the club must be elated with this capture. Expect Ochoa to have a solid season and possibly move to a bigger club in Europe.
Dijon:
Abdoulaye Méïté: From West Brom, Free
Méïté is an experienced defender who should strengthen Dijon's defence in their fight for survival. While he is limited in possession, Méïté is a solid defender who played well in Marseille before.
Younousse Sankharé: From Paris St. Germaine, €1m
Sankharé performed well this season for Dijon, so his signing will come as no surprise. A versatile youngster, the 21 year old can play at left-back, left midfielder and as a defensive midfielder. He is a good investment for the future for Dijon and should contribute straight away.
Evian:
Sidney Govou: From Panathinaikos, Free
Sidney Govou has not rediscovered his form for Lyon since the 2006 World Cup Final. His career stagnated towards his later years in Lyon and he has not had the same effect as his fellow countryman Djibril Cissé at Panathinaikos. One reason may be his lack of pace, which was one of the weapons he possessed in his arsenal; with age his pace has deteriorated, and his overall dribbling skills are not good enough to beat defenders. Even though he is a veteran, Govou does not add much maturity to any club he joins. He will, however, be a starter for Evian but won't light up Ligue 1 as he used to.
Jonathan Mensah: From Udinese, Free
Jonathan Mensah is best probably known by people confusing him with his compatriot and fellow centre-back, John Mensah, who is more famous and older. Jonathan Mensah is also known, however, for playing with the victorious Ghana U-20 World Cup side. Having never played for Udinese, Mensah spent this year on loan at Granada in Spain, who were promoted to La Liga. A strong centre-back, Mensah is mainly an investment for the future.
Lille:
Benoît Pedretti: From Auxerre, Free
A cultured midfielder, Pedretti, like Govou, is approaching the end of his career, so a Ligue 1 title would look appealing. Pedretti can either play behind the strikers or as a regista, in front of the defence, utilising his passing skills. He was never fast, and at 30 years old, he would be better suited to playing a deeper role.
Dimitri Payet, From Saint Etienne, €9m
Dimitri Payet and Saint Etienne stormed off at the top of the Ligue 1 table at the beginning of this year, much like Payet's quick runs down the flank. While Payet did not really carry on the momentum from his season start, he still remains an exciting player and should replace Gervinho in the Lille side. Expect Lille to space their play with Hazard and Payet on the flanks and to beat teams with their speed.
Vincent Enyeama, From Hapoel Tel-Aviv, Undisclosed (reported to be €5m)
Enyeama has finally left Israel after impressive performances for Nigeria and Hapoel. A confident goalkeeper, Enyeama will probably be back-up to Landreau, who is very injury-prone for a goalkeeper. Despite this, Enyeama would be pleased to play in France and at champions Lille.
Marko Baša: From Lokomotiv Moscow, Undisclosed (reported to be €1.5)
A solid if unspectacular centre-back, Baša should provide decent back up for Lille. Has played in France for Le Mans before so he would not need a lot of time to adapt to the French style of play.
Lorient:
Mathieu Coutadeur: From Monaco, Undisclosed (reported to be €2m)
A defensive midfielder, Coutadeur is a great passer of the ball and also has the required discipline to play that position. Lorient are trying to rebuild post-Gameiro and Coutadeur should be their starting defensive midfielder for a couple of years at least.
Marseille:
Alou Diarra: From Bordeux, Undisclosed (reported to be €5m)
While Diarra may not have the passing ability or range of Coutadeur, Diarra is a strong, physical defensive midfielder. Good in the air, Diarra has been part of the French national team since 2004, and his protection in front of the back four would help Marseille in their search for another country. Can also fill in at centre back, if Marseille were to play with a back three or need replacements.
Nicolas N'Koulou, From Monaco, €3.5
A strong, quick defender who can play at centre back or right back. A very good prospect for the future, N'Koulou won't play from the start, but expect him to be a very good player in the future and form a partnership with Azpilicueta.
Paris Saint-Germain:
Kévin Gameiro, From Lorient, €11m
He scored almost a goal-per-two-games for Lorient and will look to help Paris Saint-Germain to European qualification. A very quick striker, Gameiro is an elite finisher and is someone who you would want to finish off a chance in the penalty area. Should provide goals for PSG. Often coveted by Arsenal, Gameiro should be part of a small man - big man partnership with Hoarau.
Nicolas Douchez, From Rennes, Free
An athletic goalkeeper, Douchez will become PSG's first choice goalkeeper and is a good signing considering the price tag (or lack of one).
Rennes:
Jonathan Pitroipa, From Hamburg, Free
A very skillful midfielder, Pitroipa can either play as a trequartista or as a winger. Should add some flair to a hard working Rennes side. Can become a bit selfish at times and needs to improve his decision making.
Sochaux:
Sébastien Corchia, From Le Mans, Undisclosed (reported to be €1.8m)
A young, attack-minded right back, Corchia is one of the best talents in France. Sochaux is a perfect match for him as the club has reared many young players, such as Jérémy Mathieu, Pierre-Alain Frau and current France international Marvin Martin. Needs to improve his positioning but this will come in time.
Toulouse:
Pavle Ninkov, From Red Star Belgrade, Undisclosed (reported to be €1m)
A solid and defensive right back who was a bright spark in a Red Star team that performed below expectations. Can be quite limited in attack, but nevertheless is enthusiastic when doing so.
Rémy Riou, From Auxerre, Free
One of France's best young goalkeepers, Riou should be Toulouse's starting goalkeepers, although Pelé will provide competition. Very composed for a 23 year old, Riou also has great reflexes.
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